Playing House

One of my favorite childhood memories is whipping up imaginary meals in my bright yellow play kitchen. Fast forward about fifteen years, and there I was, standing in my very own—and very empty—kitchen for the first time. It felt like I was playing house all over again. A few days later, I went to make a quick meal and realized… I never bought a can opener. A few weeks in, and I was still whisk-less!

Whether you’re setting up your first kitchen or giving yours an upgrade, figuring out what you actually need can feel overwhelming.

With so many options out there, how do you know what’s worth it? Whether you’re going the non-toxic route, have a specific aesthetic, or looking to maximize your kitchen space—we’ve got you covered. Below is a thoughtfully curated list of kitchen essentials to help you build a functional and stylish space. And the best part? We’ve linked everything, so you can shop with ease and check off your list in no time!