Space-Saving Breakfast Nook Ideas

When deciding how to save space in a kitchen, consider carving out a small area in the kitchen for a breakfast nook. The nook, unlike a kitchen table pushed to the center of a room, acts as a seating area, table and gathering place without taking up as much space. Often breakfast nooks work well near a window where natural light can pour in to illuminate the table in the morning. Does this Spark an idea?

Built-In Curved Banquette

Build a breakfast nook as a semicircle at the side of the kitchen. Design a wide seating area with an open, C-shaped bench surrounding an oval or rectangular table. Add pillows to the bench for extra comfort, and fresh flowers and fruit on the table for a bright look. When extra guests stay for breakfast, add a few chairs at the end of the table that you can later remove. Decorate the space with shelving, books, photographs and other artwork to add character and color.

Kitchen Island

Adding an island to your kitchen provides more seating and counter top space.

Construct an additional counter top in the middle of your kitchen. The island functions as a cooking prep station, storage space, and a tabletop for informal breakfast seating. Consider adding chairs or stools around it that you can remove when not in use. You can store the chairs in a closet or place them in another room when not in use to open up kitchen space.

Square Banquette

Fit three sides of a square table with long benches, leaving the side of the table closest to the kitchen area without seating. This area can be used as a dining space and as an additional counter top area for cooking preparation. Decorate the benches with cushions and pillows for a sofa appeal. Add drawers under the table for additional storage.