The kitchen is the heart of the home, thus, the best kitchens are full of heart. If anyone knows this, it's Martha Stewart, who has created spaces that are both characterful and picture-perfect for decades.
In a recent Instagram post, the multi-hyphenate homemaker shared a glimpse into the kitchen at her 'Turkey Hill' home in Westport, Connecticut, in the mid-'70s. Martha owned the farmhouse domicile from 1971 to 2007, and every inch was lavished with love. Her country kitchen from the early years best embodies this sense of personality.
The beautiful space is a feast for the eyes. It features copper pots and woven antique baskets (like this one from 1stDibs) hanging from the ceiling, stainless steel appliances, and warm wood cabinets. Though over 50 years have passed since the photo was taken, Martha's space looks just as appealing as the day she decorated it.
Homes & Gardens spoke with interior design experts to find out why. Part of the timeless appeal of Martha's space is the use of lustrous dark woods throughout the room.
Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport, explains: 'Increasingly, homeowners are seeking materials with soul. Lighter timbers once felt synonymous with modern minimalism, but there is now a growing desire for something more grounded and enduring. Darker woods like walnut or truffle oak bring a natural richness that softens contemporary design and gives a kitchen greater longevity.'
Stainless steel is effortlessly chic and sturdy, so it seems only fitting to add this cookware rack to your ceiling and pay homage to Martha's copper cookware display.
It's hard to resist these charming copper measuring cups. With four sizes for all your baking needs, they're both stylish and practical, not to mention, they will provide an instant hit of rustic charm.
We can trust that anything holding Studio McGee's name will be as beautiful as it is functional – and it is certainly the case with this basket. The long oval rattan basket adds a stylish element to your kitchen storage needs while adding natural texture and charm to your space.
As we see in Martha's space, dark wood has power beyond the cabinets. It can be used on the furniture or accessories to add warmth to create a classic country kitchen.
Richard explains: 'These finishes also respond beautifully to natural light, subtly changing tone throughout the day and adding a sense of movement to the space. We are seeing more clients drawn to the way darker timber connects a home to nature while still feeling sophisticated and timeless.'
To recreate Martha's look in your own home, Richard advises: 'Used across full cabinetry runs or contrasted against painted doors, it introduces warmth and depth that lighter finishes simply cannot replicate.'
The beauty of Martha Stewart's characterful home also comes through because of her choice to decorate with antiques. From the French copper cookware to the 19th-century woven baskets, the space is full of details from another time. These storied details give the room texture, warmth, and a welcoming atmosphere.
What makes a room special isn't just the furniture - it's the story. Martha Stewart's country kitchen from the '70s is a great example, but you can recreate this feeling in any space if you are committed to planning and slow decorating.
