A breakfast nook can be a great addition to any kitchen, but small kitchens can really benefit from the extra seating and separation a nook provides. The challenge is finding the space for one. With some clever design tricks and space-saving furniture options, you can carve out a cozy breakfast spot in even the tiniest kitchen.
From banquette seating to bistro tables, we’ll cover creative ways to add a breakfast nook that maximizes every inch. With the right layout and furnishings, you can create a comfortable spot for morning coffee and meals. Read on for tips to make the most of your small kitchen with a stylish breakfast nook.
Choosing the Right Breakfast Nook Furniture
Banquettes and Booths
For compact kitchens, a banquette or booth can be a space-saving seating option. Banquettes are long upholstered benches, usually attached to a wall. Built-in booth seating works similarly, creating a cozy dining nook in minimal space. The key advantage of banquettes and booths is they take up less room than traditional tables and chairs.
When choosing banquette seating, look for designs where the table can be tucked into the bench to save space. Cushions and pillows along the banquette add comfort. Opt for stain-resistant and durable fabrics like vinyl or performance weaves. Tufted upholstery can give a banquette a more polished look. Rich wood finishes like mahogany or espresso work well for traditional spaces, while painted wood offers a more modern vibe.
Bistro Tables and Stools
Another excellent small space option is a bistro table with two stools. Bistro tables typically have a pedestal base and round top. The small footprint is ideal when floor space is limited. Stools provide seating without taking up much room. To determine what size bistro set will fit, measure the area you have available. Allow at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides once the table and stools are in place.
For very tight spaces, look for bistro tables with a drop leaf or extension so you can expand the top when needed. Bistro sets in materials like powder-coated metal and solid wood work well for small breakfast nooks. Make sure to get stools that are comfortable and provide adequate back support.
Other Furniture Options
Along with banquettes and bistro sets, other furnishing ideas work beautifully in small breakfast nooks:
- Wall-mounted or fold-down tables save floor space when not in use.
- Small pedestal tables with two chairs are an easy addition for small nooks.
- A bench or built-in seating lined with plush cushions offers cozy seating.
Maximizing Your Square Footage
Layout and Placement
Finding enough space for a breakfast nook can be a puzzle in a small kitchen. Look for corners, empty walls and awkward areas that can be transformed into a breakfast spot. An out-of-the-way section by the windows is ideal. Place the table and seating against the wall to save space.
In galley or walk-through kitchens, zone off an area at the end for a breakfast nook. Built-in banquette seating makes use of the room’s natural boundaries. For very small kitchens, consider mounting a fold-down table right on the wall. When not in use it disappears, freeing up precious space.
Multi-functional Design
In compact kitchens, flexibility is key. Look for ways your breakfast nook can serve multiple functions when it’s not being used for dining. Under bench storage keeps dishes, table linens and silverware close at hand but out of sight. A banquette with removable cushions can convert to extra workspace or a laptop station.
Built-in shelving adds storage and display space while taking up zero floor space. Cupboards or cabinets with doors keep everything tidy but accessible. Don’t let any area go unused – even small nooks can incorporate discreet storage solutions.
Styling Your Small Kitchen Nook
Use Color and Patterns
Strategically using color and pattern is an easy way to designate a breakfast nook in a small kitchen. Paint the banquette or wall of your nook in a bright, cheerful hue like sunshine yellow or robin’s egg blue. The vibrant tone defines the space and makes it feel warm and welcoming.
Acrylic, vinyl or performance upholstery are good banquette options for small spaces. The colorful fabrics are durable and easy to wipe clean. Hang patterned curtains in complementary tones to frame the nook. Don’t forget the floor – an area rug anchors the space.
Lighting and Accessories
Lighting and accessories provide the finishing touch for your breakfast nook. Hang pendant lamps in a modern finish low over the table to create an intimate feel. For easy illumination, install a pair of swing arm sconces. Include accessories like plants, wall art and a candle to style your nook.
Incorporate metal, wood or ceramic accents that complement your design. A vase of fresh flowers or a stack of colorful coffee table books lend a lived-in look. Floating shelves are ideal for displaying cherished keepsakes and decor.
Textures and Materials
Texture plays an important role in small spaces. Use tactile fabrics and surfaces to create cozy appeal. Upholster the banquette in a nubby performance fabric like linen or velvet. Consider a plush area rug underfoot. Contrast hard and soft materials throughout the nook.
For the table, mixing materials like reclaimed wood and painted metal legs works well. Incorporate an organic element like rattan dining chairs to complement hardwood floors. The blend of materials adds depth and dimension to any small breakfast nook.
Transitioning Day to Night
A well-designed breakfast nook seamlessly transitions to an extension of your living space come evening. Install discreet lighting like wall sconces or under cabinet fixtures to illuminate the space. Dimmer switches allow you to create the perfect ambiance.
Choose upholstered seating and scatter cushions in soft performance fabrics that invite relaxation. Include side tables or floating shelves for drinks and remotes. With the addition of a rug, pillows, throws and ambient lighting, your breakfast nook easily converts to bonus seating for movie nights or entertaining.
Small kitchens can absolutely accommodate a comfortable, stylish breakfast nook with the right layout and furnishings. Use space-saving banquettes, bistros and built-ins tailored to your floorplan. Maximize every inch by incorporating discreet storage. Bright colors, patterns, lighting and accessories distinguish the nook.
With clever small space ideas, you can carve out a separate breakfast zone. The nook creates a welcoming spot for casual meals and quality time together. We hope these brilliant breakfast nook ideas have inspired you to make the most of your tiny kitchen. With a bit of creativity, even the smallest kitchen can enjoy the benefits of a breakfast nook.
1. Make the Most of Vertical Space: If your small kitchen doesn’t have enough floor space for a traditional breakfast nook, consider utilizing vertical space. Install a wall-mounted shelf or built-in bench seating to create a cozy nook that won’t take up valuable floor space.
2. Choose Multifunctional Furniture: In a small kitchen, every inch of space counts. Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, a drop-leaf table can be easily tucked away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space.
3. Use Light Colors and Mirrors: Small spaces can feel cramped and closed in. To make your breakfast nook feel more spacious, use light colors and mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
4. Incorporate Storage: In a small kitchen, storage can be at a premium. Make the most of every inch of space by incorporating storage into your breakfast nook design. Consider adding a built-in shelf or cupboard to store dishes and utensils, or a drawer under the bench seating to keep napkins and placemats within easy reach.
5. Utilize Multi-purpose Pieces: Opt for furniture and accessories that can transition from day to night use, expanding your living space. For example, cushy banquette seating easily becomes an extension of the living room once evening arrives.
