Photo courtesy of ballardesigns.com
That first cup of coffee is one little thing that helps ease you into your morning—and having a special, comforting space to enjoy it in, can make those precious moments some of the best parts of your day. For many homeowners, that special space is their kitchen’s breakfast nook. And if your kitchen wasn’t born with one, creating one can be a fun remodel project.
1. Easy Does It
If this is an element that is not already in your kitchen, it may be easy to create if you have some existing wall space or space you can clear. If this area happens to be in the corner of the room, all the better, but it doesn’t have to be for your scheme to work. This can be a really fun project, too, even if you are a creative DIYer. Once you have chosen which wall you’d like to work with, you will want to choose a stylish and functional bench with a backrest. The bench needs to be comfortable and can even be upholstered, but we would recommend that it be fitted with a performance fabric such as Crypton, since breakfast spills happen. Once you have chosen a bench that fits with your room’s vibe and fits in the space you have chosen, you will want to add a table (preferably round for that cozy, kitchen nook feel, and then two to three chairs—depending on the size of chair and the remaining space you are working with. Think about using elements that complement each other rather than match exactly here. Consider alternating texture and tone with each piece—and when adding in your creature comforts, such as area rugs and cushions.
Photo courtesy of HGTV.com
2. The Banquette
This usually sleek, curved, and comfy built-in bench can be as formal as dining in a refined French restaurant or as informal as “Mel’s Diner,” and can help make the most out of a smaller, corner dining space. If you’re stuck for a concept, think about the banquettes you’ve admired in your favorite restaurants or coffee shops for inspiration. And whether you’re going corner-to- corner, or wall-to-wall with your concept, don’t be surprised if your banquette breakfast nook becomes the most eye-catching aspect of your kitchen.
Photo courtesy of bhg.com
Photo by Lisa J. Gotto
3. The Built-in
When it comes to style and substance, you just can’t beat the look and utility of the built-in breakfast nook with bench storage. Not only will you have the fun of choosing your color, materials, and textures here, but you’ll feel really good about the practical application that storage within the bench will provide for stowing napkin rings, placemats, table linens, and seasonal tabletop décor. That’s a kitchen win-win if there ever was one!
4. The Mix & Match
Don’t be afraid to go all-out cozy with your space by turning up the textural appeal of your nook. This charming, coffee house-esque nook blends the look of supple leather with patterned and textured pillows, and the warmth of a chunky wood table. The earthy textures of nearby linen window treatments and woodsy décor overhead creates a vibe that you’ll want to live and work in all day; not just in the morning.
Photo courtesy of HGTV.com
5. Small & Smart
One of the best things a breakfast nook does is help maximize your small space using a broad concept that is big on creativity. This sweet nook takes advantage of what otherwise might be wasted space between two room entries, and it does so smartly and simply. Clearly, what this space lacks in drama, is made up for in the application of clean design.
