See how pretty? If you think about it, it also makes good sense. Lab glass is heat resistant, cold-resistant and crack-resistant, and beakers are shaped and marked for cooking practicality. Now I’m craving a couple beakers for my kitchen, too. (I’d also like use them for floral arrangements, like this.)

You can pick up beakers at any scientific supply store or on amazon.

I like this space primarily for one reason: it’s a great example of how to have a pretty and practical kitchen on a budget. Not including appliances, the budget for this space was approximately $1000, which isn’t bad considering how great it turned out. I like the freestanding units and how well they co-ordinate with the appliances; the result is a look that’s modest, considered, and somewhat industrial in feel.

The open shelving turns Anna’s everyday plates, bowls and cups into display items, which is a great idea for those of us with limited cupboard space. Other than a great print over the stove and a simple floral tea towel, there’s minimal “fuss” in this space. A well-edited collection of useful items (it helps to have a consistent “pop” colour; in this case red) is all this space needs for maximum visual impact.

Be sure to check out Anna’s inspiring blog, as well as the tour of her home at Apartment Therapy.

Not really kitchen-related, but I also think the bugs are pretty cool: