There might be only few things that are more cozy than a lovely breakfast nook. The feeling of intimacy, the casual ambience, without any doubt, this design is such a popular addition to your kitchen. As it is said, bigger isn’t always better, and a cozy dining nook is the proof! There’s just something so endearing about the thought of having a cup of coffee in the morning, in a quiet area tucked away from the hustle and noise of the outside.
Need more inspiration? We’ve rounded up 4 tips to make your breakfast nooks both comfortable and efficient. And, be sure to add any suggestions in the comments below.
Think about your layout
Maximize your available space by turning an awkward alcove or a dull corner into an intimate setting, perfect for sharing a casual family meal. If you don’t see the possibility of a standard commercial solution, try making one by yourself by adding a small table to a sunny corner that doesn’t get a lot of use. Trade in traditional kitchen chairs for a wood bench with cushions. Just keep it simple. You don’t have to break the bank or renovate the whole kitchen to make a breakfast nook feel warm and inviting — a touch of vibrant color and lot of natural light should do the most of the trick.
The face-to-face pub style — perfect for smaller kitchens — can be tucked about anywhere and won’t take up much floor space. It often comes in one piece, integrating table and benches on the same frame. The L-shaped booth is a great choice, especially for larger spaces tucked into a corner. And it’s a total must-have for larger families. If you already have an alcove in your kitchen, simply set a small table against the wall and four chairs into the space to create an instant dining nook. This will be much cheaper than adding built-in benches and a table.
Choose the right dimensions
If your nook is to be used on both sides, a table depth of 42 inches is the ideal measure. For one side only, 21 inches will suffice. Bench seats should have a depth of 17.5 to 20 inches for optimum comfort. As for how large the nook area should be, add the table depth and the depth of all seating benches to figure out the space required.
Make smart use of the bench
Speaking of the bench, it is one of the most versatile solutions to eat-in kitchens for sure. You can place it on a wall or at the kitchen island to create a cozy seating area. Be sure to think about bench storage within your nook as well. If you have young kids, for example, you can consider nice lift-up benches with compartments that store toys and coloring books.
Add some fun!
Do you like to entertain often? So why not building in a mini bar that is sure to impress your guests? How about an ice or bottle storage built in the table lined with stainless steel?
