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I received a tea set for my wedding this month and I find it so beautiful. It's white and classically lovely. It's well-designed and pleasing to the eye, made from bone china - delicate yet durable. It's the tea set I've always wanted!

I had it stored away in a cupboard but realized that I would prefer to look at it every day. I am still arranging this window cupboard over my sink, and for now I decided to put the tea set in there, along with a few other treasures.

There's a pewter molcajete from Mexico, a Jadeite juicer, Mint's porcelain mortar and pestle, two vintage milk bottles, and a bud vase of flowers. Until I populate my window sill with herbs I plan on keeping my treasures out where I can enjoy them.

It's also a check on the impulse to spend, to acquire new things. I have so much already - there's no need to spend and acquire more. It's better to enjoy what is already squirreled away in the cupboard, letting these things I already have fill the functions they were made for and make my kitchen a little more beautiful.

What kind of treasures do you keep stored away for safekeeping? Can you bring them out for enjoyment as you cook and clean in your kitchen? What treasures do you already have out for display and enjoyment?

The teapot and set, by the way, are from Crate & Barrel - the Anna II pattern.

• Anna II Teapot at Crate & Barrel

Related: Beautify: Flowers in the Kitchen

(Images: Faith Durand)