The Foundation of a Kitchen is built on Cookware and Knives.
Cookware
Frying Pans/Skillets
Saucepans in various sizes
Stockpots
Griddle/Grillepans
Saute' Pans
Double Boiler/Steamer Inserts
Knives
Chef's Knife
Slicing Knife
Boning Knife
Serrated Knife
Paring Knife
Carving Fork
Sharpening Steel
Kitchen Scissors

To be successful with a recipe you need exact Measuring Equipment.

Measuring Spoons
Measuring Cups
Liquid Measuring Cups
Scales
Timers
Thermometers

The Right Tools Make Cooking Easier and More Enjoyable.

Vegetable Peeler
Can Opener
Chopping Board
Tongs
Ladles
Slotted Spoons
Microplane Zester
Cheese Graters
Pancake Turner
Narrow Spatula
Cooking Tweezer
Bulb Baster
Apple Corer
Ice Cream Scoop
Lemon Squeezer
Potato Masher
Potato Ricer
Cookie and Pastry Cutter
Pastry Wheel
Flour Sifter
Egg Separator
Piping Bags and Nozzles
Garlic Peeler
Garlic Press
Colander
Sieves
Whisks
Salad Spinner
Wooden Spoons
Rubber Spatulas
Pastry Brushes
Rolling Pin
Silpat Mat
Mortar and Pestle
Mixing Bowls

Ovenware and Bakeware that withstand high heat and go the distance.

Casseroles
Roasting Pans
Racks
Cake Pans
Cookie Sheets
Springform Cake Pans
Jelly Roll Pans
Loaf Pans
Pie Pans/Ceramic Pie Dishes
Tartlet Molds
Muffin Pans

Appliances

Food Processor
Stand Mixer
Blender
Spice/Coffee Grinder
Coffee Maker
Deep-Fat Fryer
Ice Cream Maker
Toaster
Toaster/Convection Oven