The Single Biggest Thing That Changed How I Cook - It's Not the Recipe
The single biggest thing that has changed how I cook and run my home has nothing to do with recipes. It's where I put things. This week I'm walking you all the way around my farmhouse kitchen, every drawer, cupboard and corner, sharing how I've organised it, why everything has a specific home, and the small decisions that make the difference between a kitchen that works and one that quietly drives you mad.
We moved in with a very basic kitchen and limited wall space, so every inch had to earn its place. From the crockery drawer positioned right next to the dishwasher, to the magnetic knife strip that replaced a knife block I found endlessly irritating, to commando hooks for the dog leads tucked in by the back door, the whole layout is built around how I actually cook and live in this space day to day.
I also share the design decisions that didn't quite go to plan (the kitchen bin story will resonate with anyone who has ever project-managed a renovation), the reorganisation I did recently around the Kenwood and Magimix that made a real difference, and how I've organised the larder with IKEA baskets so nothing gets lost or wasted. Sometimes you don't need a full redesign just a bit of thought about where things live. I hope this gives you the push to have a look at your own kitchen with fresh eyes.
If you cook on an AGA or are thinking about getting one, I'll leave my AGA courses linked below, there are online courses and YouTube videos to help you get the very best from yours.
With Love Charlie x
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My Kitchen Organisation Top Tips: Printable version
Ask Charlie is a love letter to home, nature and the quiet rhythms of the year. I'm Charlie Gray a mother of three living in the English countryside, sharing practical skills, seasonal recipes, homemaking, and real life behind the scenes. New videos every week. Subscribe to join the community.