Tired of your kitchen feeling cluttered and cramped? Installing a corner nook with storage can open up floor space while providing a cozy spot for meals, homework, or hobbies. Take advantage of wasted corner real estate by incorporating a built-in or freestanding breakfast nook. With the right design and storage options, your kitchen corner will transform into a multifunctional space that’s both practical and inviting.
A corner nook adds seating and surfaces for dining or working without monopolizing room in the center of your kitchen. Tuck a table and benches or chairs into the corner to save several feet of space that’s normally difficult to utilize. The unused corner becomes a natural spot for family breakfasts, kid-friendly craft projects, or extra meal prep area when cooking for a crowd.
Choosing the Right Nook Design
When planning your kitchen corner nook, consider the shape and dimensions that will work best. Measure the available space and sketch out some nook size options before selecting one. Round, curved L-shaped or triangular nooks are ideal for tucking into corners without wasted space.
Size and Shape
A round nook with a pedestal table is very space efficient. Bench seating curves around a small circular table, maximizing every inch. For a larger round nook, use a bulky table base or opt for individual chairs. An L-shaped nook has a bench on one wall and side chairs on the perpendicular wall. A triangular nook utilizes corner space with angled seating on two walls. Match the nook size and layout to the activities planned for the space.
Storage Options
Incorporate storage right into your corner nook for keeping games, books, craft supplies and more within arm’s reach. Open shelving, enclosed cabinets, drawers, and hybrid designs allow you to customize storage to your needs. Closed cabinets hide clutter while open shelves put items on display.
Seating
Built-in bench seating is space saving, but some nooks use freestanding chairs for more flexibility. For comfort, include thick cushions, pillows and padded seats. Hinged bench tops on hidden storage bases are also an option. The table shape influences leg room – round pedestal tables offer the most foot space.
Materials
Durable woods like oak or maple provide classic appeal, while laminates introduce easy-clean practicality. Pair wood tones with stone table tops for natural beauty that shrugs off spills. Upholster seating in stain-resistant fabrics or leather for family-friendly durability and coziness.
Maximizing Storage in Your Nook
Strategize storage zones based on item frequency of use and required access. Devote open shelving to often-used items like dishes, cookbooks, or cleaning supplies. Enclosed cabinets can corral less utilized serving pieces, vases and holiday decor.
- Use shelves of varying heights to store items of different sizes, keeping everything visible.
- Install slide-out trays or drawers for corner cabinet access without digging.
- Add hooks on the walls or sides of open shelves for utensils, keys and other small items.
Baskets, bins and dividers keep cabinets and shelves neatly organized. Labeling helps identify contents. For games and puzzles, look for stackable storage containers that slide or pull out for easy access.
Using Vertical Space
Because corner nooks are often limited in floor space, utilizing vertical real estate is key. Floating shelves mounted on the walls provide display space without taking up table or foot room. Floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinetry maximizes storage and serves as a decorative feature.
Ladder-style racks mounted to the walls or cabinets bring commonly used cooking tools and utensils right into the nook for easy accessibility when prepping meals. Vertical space helps keep items off the counters but still close at hand.
Lighting Up Your Nook
Proper illumination transforms any corner nook from dark and cramped to bright and inviting. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates tasks like cooking, reading or playing games. Install a pendant light over the dining table to create a focal point.
Wall sconces add pretty ambiance and decorative appeal. Opt for dimmable fixtures to set just the right mood, from bright and energizing in the morning to soft and relaxing at night.
Adding Style with Decor
Infuse your corner nook with character through decor details like:
- Paint or wallpaper – Try a bright, bold color or print on the nook walls.
- Trimwork – Frame the nook with crown molding, chair rail or beadboard.
- Panels – Use shiplap or tiles as a backsplash.
- Plants and artwork – Incorporate greenery, paintings or photos.
- Decorative brackets – Supports under shelves add ornamentation.
Include a few decorative objects like vases, candles or bowls for personalized flair. If desired, add curtains or roman shades to soften the nook perimeter and tie in with the rest of the kitchen decor.
By incorporating a corner nook in your kitchen design, you can create an intimate yet spacious dining area, homework station or hobby corner without stealing valuable room from the center floor space. Built-in or freestanding nooks with integrated storage provide a spot to comfortably gather, work or unwind. Customize with cozy seating, lighting and decor to design a corner nook tailored to your needs and style.
