Finding space for an extra seating area in a small kitchen can seem impossible. But with some clever design tricks, you can carve out a cozy breakfast nook without sacrificing valuable counter or floor space. Breakfast nooks are a great way to add a casual spot for quick meals, coffee breaks, or evening cocktails without the need for a full-sized dining area. From built-in banquettes to versatile bar carts, there are many smart solutions for small kitchens. Keep reading for ideas to create your own intimate yet functional breakfast nook!
Different Types of Breakfast Nooks for Small Kitchens
Built-In Banquettes
One of the most space-efficient options for small kitchens is to incorporate bench seating directly into your existing layout. Built-in banquettes seamlessly blend into the design while providing tucked-away spots for dining and lounging.
Look for unused nooks or awkward corners that can accommodate a custom bench. Storage underneath is key — try open shelves or doors for tucking away serving pieces when not in use. Built-in bookcases at the ends of the banquette add even more function. For a soft and inviting look, upholster the bench and use throw pillows and cushions along the back wall.
Fold-Down Wall Tables
If you’re working with a super tight kitchen, consider a fold-down table that can disappear against the wall when not needed. Wall-mounted drop-leaf or butterfly tables provide ample surface area when opened up, but consume minimal space when folded up and out of the way.
Look for sturdy metal brackets that can support the weight of the tabletop when loaded up with dishes. And check the dimensions when folded up to make sure it fits nicely within your existing wall layout. The beauty of fold-down tables lies in their versatility — use them as extra counters when prepping ingredients or leave them down for impromptu breakfasts.
Kitchen Islands
While you may think an island is out of the question for a small kitchen, certain types can actually open up your options for seamless multi-functional use. A narrow island on casters is a perfect breakfast nook substitute when space is at a premium.
Seek out island designs with an overhang on one side that can accommodate counter-height barstools for casual dining. Built-in storage, shelves, and cubbies also allow you to tuck away kitchen essentials and cooking tools when not in use. And since the island is on wheels, it seamlessly transitions wherever you need extra counter space.
Window Seats
Cozy window seats are a great way to take advantage of existing architectural elements like bay windows or corner nooks that typically go unused. Turn that wasted space into a comfortable banquette breakfast nook in an afternoon.
All you need is a padded seat cushion and some throw pillows added to your window bay to create an instant reading nook. For a more built-in look, attach a rod pocket curtain across the back of the seat to define the space. If you have the skills, you can build out custom cabinetry and shelving around the bay window perimeter for even more functionality.
Freestanding Breakfast Nooks
If built-in options aren’t possible, try using freestanding furniture pieces to carve out a makeshift breakfast nook area. This can be as simple as placing a bistro table with two chairs in an unused corner of the kitchen. The small footprint still allows you to pull up seats for quick bites.
For more of a bar feel, try a slim rolling bar cart tucked against the wall or kitchen island. When not in use, it lives out of sight. Then unfold the drop-leaf sides and roll it out when guests come over. The mobility means you can create an instant drink station in any room.
Design Tips for Small Kitchen Breakfast Nooks
When planning your DIY breakfast nook, keep these design tips in mind:
- Choose the right location. Look for unused dead space like corners or the area near a window. This prevents taking up valuable kitchen real estate.
- Incorporate storage. Built-in cabinets, shelving, and cubbies allow you to tuck away serving essentials.
- Consider upholstery and seating options. Cushions, pillows, and comfy chairs invite lingering.
- Add lighting for ambiance. Overhead pendant lights, wall sconces and table lamps create a cozy glow.
- Use multi-functional pieces. Tables that fold up, benches with storage, and rolling carts increase versatility.
Get Clever with These Space-Saving Layouts
When dealing with truly tiny kitchens, you need to get creative with your breakfast nook layout. Even the most awkward areas can become stylish seating with the right combo of built-in components and mobile pieces. Here are some space-saving solutions for making it work:
Tuck bench seating into a unused corner and make use of the vertical space above with shelving. Place narrow pedestal tables nearby that can be moved around as needed. The tables take up minimal floor space but still allow for seating when required.
On an adjacent wall, hang a fold-down table that doubles as extra counter space when meals aren’t being served. Add a slim console table underneath for setting out appetizers and drinks.
For galley kitchens, create a banquette by extending cabinetry into the corridor leading to the kitchen. Add open shelving above for easy access to dinnerware. Floating shelves on the opposite wall provide additional storage and display space.
Near an existing window, build a padded window seat with roomy storage underneath the cushions. Flank it with a small occasional table on one side for setting down snacks and beverages. The seating area seamlessly fits into the unused niche.
A rolling bar cart tucked into the corner completes the space — wheel it out when prepping cocktails for guests. Then stow it out of sight when not in use.
Transforming Your Small Kitchen
With some creativity and strategic planning, even the most cramped kitchen can be upgraded with a chic breakfast nook. The small footprint options like banquettes, bistro tables, and fold-down components help maximize unused areas without overwhelming the cook space.
Depending on the complexity of your desired layout, professional installation of built-in benches and cabinetry might run between $1,500-$3,000. But simpler DIY solutions like rolling carts, wall-mounted shelves and free-standing furniture can be added for several hundred dollars.
The cost is minor considering what breakfast nooks add in value. Not only do they improve functionality of your petite cooking space, they also create instant areas for casual dining and entertaining. Breakfast nooks also provide the perfect spot for your morning coffee, a quiet reading corner, or an intimate space for meaningful conversations.
While a full home addition isn’t required, consider knocking down walls between adjoining rooms if you have the budget. This instantly expands the footprint of your kitchen to allow space for islands, banquettes and other built-ins. But even sans renovation, a well-designed breakfast nook creates a cozy hub for all your dining needs.
Hopefully the breakfast nook ideas here sparked inspiration for your own tiny kitchen makeover. With a mix of clever built-in bench seating, space-saving furniture picks and multi-functional elements, you can carve out a comfy spot for quick bites in even the most petite kitchens. And having an extra dining space for two encourages lingering over meals and quality time together. Don’t overlook the potential to add cozy seating — a DIY breakfast nook is one of the best ways to upgrade small kitchens into stylish, functional spaces.
