Drew Barrymore's line of kitchen appliances has become almost synonymous with the culinary world. Her Beautiful by Drew collection is an assortment of chic yet versatile everyday items in a range of vibrant and muted hues. It's an example of using ordinary objects as display pieces, and this strategy doesn't just apply to coffee makers and toasters.
In a recent Instagram post, Barrymore showed off her Beautiful line in her kitchen, but what immediately caught our eye were the cookbooks displayed on her wall. The cookbooks are arranged in a row with their covers facing outwards, allowing us to admire their beautiful covers and get a glimpse at some of the recipe books Barrymore uses.
When thinking about how to organize your cookbooks, it's important to remember that these books are both valuable exhibits and instructional materials.
“Cookbooks are more than just functional items; they are testaments to culinary journeys, family traditions, and passion for the culinary arts,” says designer Nina Lichtenstein. “Displaying cookbooks in your kitchen not only keeps inspiration close at hand, but also adds a personal touch to the space. Done thoughtfully, a cookbook display can transform your kitchen into a stylish, cozy hub of creativity and comfort.”
With that sentiment in mind, displaying your books in full view is a great way to store them while still keeping them readily accessible.
“Open shelves are a popular way to display cookbooks, making them easy to see and access,” says Lichtenstein. “Place them on a counter or near your prep area for easy access. Make sure the shelves are sturdy enough to support the weight of your books and deep enough to hold a large number of books.”
There are plenty of alternative options for shelves too, and for those wanting to recreate Barrymore's style, installing custom bookcases could be the solution.
“If you have the space, consider incorporating built-in bookshelves into your kitchen design,” suggests Lichtenstein. “This can be part of a larger kitchen renovation or a freestanding piece that complements your existing décor. Built-in bookshelves provide plenty of storage and can become a focal point of the room.”
Finally, Lichtenstein says that while visual appeal is important, functionality should be the top priority when it comes to storing cookbooks in the kitchen.
“Make sure your most used cookbooks are easily accessible and that the display doesn't disrupt your cooking workflow,” she says.
Cherry Bomb Cookbook
