Kitchen countertops are the magnetic epicenter of household clutter. Mail, vitamins, school flyers, and groceries gravitate toward the island within seconds of entering the house.
The Strict Three-Item Countertop Rule
Limit your primary prep surfaces to three intentional decorative or utilitarian objects: a high-grade wooden cutting board leaning against the backsplash, an olive oil stoneware cruet tray, and an electric kettle.