I will admit that at this point of the summer in New York City, I am yearning for a country escape. I envy every small town and hamlet dweller who counts more birds as neighbors than people, whose gardens are big and wild, whose local bodies of water are more swimmable than the Hudson river.
Maybe there will be a weekend escape in my future, but in truth, I won't be leaving asphalt-ridden New York for much longer than for a a couple of days any time soon. So I find my little bit of country in the ways I can—and in the kitchen, that means a strict refusal of all things sleek and modern. I love a country kitchen: mismatched stoneware, wicker baskets, slabs of pine underfoot, and well-worn white linens. Of course, country kitchens can be as varied as those I've seen in New York City. To me, though, a farmhouse aesthetic is all about natural materials and unfussy fixtures; it has none of the glossy store-bought newness of a modern kitchen. If you're feeling a similar pang for the country, here are a few things you can score to capture the look, no matter where you are.
This rattan votive holder doubles as a vessel for fresh flowers.
Vietri Campagna Mucca Oval Serving Tray
Classic, hand-painted Italian pottery is traditionally used in a set, but I see no reason why you can't mix and match with other painted wares.
Vintage Striped Mixing Bowl
Vintage stoneware in classic blue and white never gets old.
Farmhouse Pottery Ceramic Crock
I would keep the littlest of these durable stoneware crocks stove-side with a pile of
clean demitasse spoons for tasting, or by the kettle to catch the wandering packets of tea from my pantry.
Canyon Dish Towels, Set of 4
A set of highly-absorbent cotton towels will help you cut down on paper waste and make mopping up spills a little more pleasant.
For keeping those wooden spoons at the ready.
Speckled Ceramic Plates, Set of 4
These handmade plates, which are thrown and painted in Italy, look just as at home for indoor and outdoor dining.
These cheerful cotton placemats are designed in New York by architect and interior designer Hana Getachew and then handwoven in Ethiopia.
Vintage Striped Mixing Bowl
Because swirling a batch of muffins together shouldn't always be done in that nondescript stainless steel bowl.
Two-Glaze Artisan Bread Cloche
For the breadmakers out there: If you've been kneading and baking since March, maybe it's time you upped your game with a beautiful, handmade cloche.
For your farmers market trip, your apple picking trip, your beach visit, or just for
storing towels in your kitchen.
