Most Curated is a monthly series in which one editor, team member or friend of Livingetc will share the top 15 items on their current wish list.
When my husband and I bought our house five years ago, we knew we had a big project on our hands. We loved the bones of our Southern California home. Built in 1939, the house had original elements that drew us in, especially the grand living room and bay window I imagined our growing family spending time in. But a ton needed to be changed before we could live there comfortably. The door was a terrible shade of red, and the bathroom hadn't been updated since 2005—but the worst of all was the kitchen. Five years in, we're now renovating the entire house, and the first room we're starting with is—you guessed it—the kitchen.
As I bid adieu to the early aughts–inspired design of my space, I'm ready to start investing in new pieces. Currently, I'm on the hunt for the best kitchen upgrades, starting with decorative pieces and daily cooking essentials. Macy's has long been a go-to for me and is a treasure trove of the best brands out there, so I spent hours bookmarking and searching for the cream of the crop to add to my new kitchen. Below, see exactly what's in my cart.
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Because I'm deeply averse to clutter, I wanted to find something that will sit on my new marble countertops without looking offensive, and this black utensil crock is the perfect addition.
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Along with updating my cabinets, I'm also doing a full upgrade on everyday essentials, so these coffee mugs are first on my list.
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Hear me out: I know the price tag here is steep, but these are ceramic coated, so they're nontoxic and will keep food fresher longer.
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I'm saying so long to my electric kettle for this traditional version that will double as décor on my new stovetop.
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For under $150, this tool not only looks sophisticated in your space but is also useful for special homemade pasta dishes.
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I love that this board can either be used for charcuterie or cutting. I'm planning to purchase two to lay against my stovetop for easy access.
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A kitchen is not complete without a set of wood spatulas. These are made from olive wood, giving them a longer and more sustainable shelf life than cheaper options.
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This deep-green, under-$100 pitcher could double as a vase. A win in my book.
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For Friday night dinners at home, this carafe is a conversation piece that feels classic and stylish at the same time.
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This salad spinner has gone viral for good reason. With over 100 five-star reviews, it will dry your greens without being an eyesore while doing so.
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If you're looking for sleek pieces to add to your countertop décor, go for a modern coaster set like this leather-and-metal style from Georg Jensen.
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I own a Staub dutch oven, and I can wholeheartedly say it's my favorite piece of cookware. I'm ready to invest in my second, and I can't take my eyes off this beautiful, sleek white option.
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A new kitchen deserves a mega coffee machine to match, and this top-rated option is it for me. It has nine one-touch recipes including espresso, cappuccino, and foamed milk., I'll never step foot in a café again.
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Incorporating linen in everyday life is a surefire way to elevate any evening dinner. It's the little things, you know?
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Another top-rated set, this mixing-bowl trio is dishwasher safe and durable with stainless steel both on the interior and exterior. These can sit nicely on your countertop if you wish to show them off instead of hiding them in a cabinet.
