When I first moved into my 1920s rental apartment, I was horrified by the built-in mirrored cabinet above the sink. Wouldn't it be awkward to stare at myself while doing dishes? Yet this little cupboard unexpectedly became the most joyful feature of my kitchen (and it has nothing to do with vanity!).
Such cabinets are not uncommon in Los Angeles kitchens of this era and most people I know use them to store spice jars. However, after years and layers of paint, the door doesn't fully close, and I am reluctant to keep spices near the moisture and heat of the sink. Instead, I fill the shelves with small cups and bowls, measuring and straining tools, and some of my favorite implements, like miniature funnels and salt spoons.
Opening the cabinet never fails to delight me. Previously I had a very colorful kitchen, so in contrast I painted this one white. But I love seeing the hidden splash of aqua each time I reach for a measuring spoon or espresso cup. Sometimes I treat myself to a peek inside for no reason other than to enjoy the color, the rows of yogurt pots, and the array of beloved tools.
As for the mirror, it reflects the sunshine so beautifully that I don't mind it. Plus, I was relieved to find that dishwashing is done with one's eyes on the task rather than staring straight ahead, so I'm rarely caught checking myself out!
Related: Unexpected Favorite: Vintage Drying Rack
(Images: Emily Ho)
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Speaking of yogurt pots, is there a US source??
JackDee,
The glass ones are Spega, and there isnt a US source. Maybe try etsy or ebay?
As for the orange ones, those are St Benoit which is a yogurt company in CA, and as far as I know they are only sold locally in the Oakland/Berkeley/SF area. You buy a yogurt for a few bucks, then return the ceramic pot and get your container deposit back! I kept a few too :)
How cute!
Trader Joes's used to carry Spega yogurt and I may have seen it at Whole Foods. The little glass jars are fantastic. A friend of mine got cork stoppers for them and uses them for spice storage.
I got the Spega Italian yogurt at Trader Joe's many years ago. Unfortunately it doesn't seem like they carry it anymore. (I think I used to see it at Gelson's in LA, too.)
For anyone in SoCal, Saint Benoît yogurt is available at the Hollywood farmers' market and Whole Foods. I usually return the pots but couldn't resist keeping a few!
I chuckled when I saw the 2nd photo. Who would do this; put a medicine cabinet in the kitchen unless the entire building was once something else. (?)
I like what you did and I too like my utensils 'standing' rather than 'laying'.
Nice job.