Working as an editor known for testing an array of kitchen equipment, I deeply value appropriate storage spaces. When I recently relocated, I decided to get a wooden cupboard, turning the top into a resting place for my copper cookware.

Like many of you, my countertop space is more streamlined, minimalistic, as I dislike clutter that could disrupt cutting board operations. On my counter, there are a few permanent fixtures - a water filter, a gooseneck kettle, and a coffee machine, while other appliances, including my air fryer and blender, occupy cabinet space.

The counter area between my stove and fridge measures 16 by 25 inches. This is where I first placed the Caraway Cutting Board Set for easy accessibility. Interestingly, I fell in love with this arrangement and kept it. When Caraway approached me to try their matching Prep Set, I enthusiastically accepted the offer without considering where it would fit in.

The Prep Set features a knife-blocking birchwood block, a matte-finish utensil holder, and a matchy display tray. They are magnetized to secure in one spot. The package is complete with five wooden utensils, four knives, and kitchen shears. Impressively, the knife handles share the same color with the tray and utensil holder, giving them a sleek appearance. Caraway offers a choice of six colors for any kitchen, and I chose cream.

Luck shone on me since the 15.5-inch wide tray found a perfect fit on my counter, with enough room for the Cutting Board Set. The Prep Set was aligned with the backsplash and the cutting boards with the fridge in an arrangement that eases meal preparation. Having slicing and chopping tools in one zone is quite desirable; also, the wooden utensils come in handy for cooking in ceramic Dutch oven or nonstick pan.

I acknowledge a knife block and utensil holder could achieve the same feat. However, the compact measurement of the Prep Set - 15.5 by 10.35 by 5.32 inches - makes all the difference for my setting.

Although the Caraway knives measure less favorably when compared to the high-cost ones (which now dwells in my cabinet), they impress me with their sharp, German steel blades and the balanced feel. They capably slice through thick and fibery produce, citrus, and dice garlic neatly. At the moment, this set's convenience is unbeatable.

Caraway’s wooden utensils are superior to all other wooden spoons and spatulas I’ve used before. They come with a smooth, almost waxy finish, easing hand-washing, making them of sustainable birch, and treating them without formaldehyde or VOCs, as clarified by the brand.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Prep Set not only to those with limited countertop space but also to anyone who appreciates efficiency and a streamlined design.