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13 Ways to Create an Inviting Eat-In Kitchen
Kitchen dining spaces come in all shapes and sizes. Here's how to make them cozy, flexible and fun
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta... More »
It's hard to believe that just a century ago, kitchens were often relegated to basements and only used by servants. Today, they're the heart of the home: a place to converse with the cook, work on homework, and gather for family meals from Sunday breakfast to Saturday night dinner. Here are some tips on how to create a wonderful spot for sharing everything from morning coffee to late-night snacks.
Make it comfortable for multiple uses. This inviting kitchen nook combines a window seat, fun throw pillows, classic mid-century Danish chairs, great lighting and a cheerful color scheme.
The result is an inviting command post, homework center and dining spot.
The result is an inviting command post, homework center and dining spot.
| Think outside the kitchen. This custom-upholstered seatback has a shape we're more used to seeing on a headboard or a sofa, but here it certainly dresses up an otherwise ordinary bench in a dining nook. |
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| Incorporate clever ways to extend the dining table. The right side of this table easily folds out to create room for more diners. See more of this kitchen |
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| Look at a small space with new eyes. A built-in bench paired with a narrow table and low-profile chairs turn a narrow space into a generous eating area. Matching the upholstery fabric on the bench to the color on the walls streamlines the look. |
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| Extend the bench. A clever built-in provides extra seating and storage along an entire wall. |
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Maximize storage in a kitchen nook. This sunny nook was created as a spot to relax with a cup of tea and a good book, but the bench also provides scads of sneaky storage along with comfortable seating.
Large drawers like these can hold linens, seldom-used cookware, cookbooks, shoes — everything you need to stash.
Large drawers like these can hold linens, seldom-used cookware, cookbooks, shoes — everything you need to stash.
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Add lots of cushions. Custom cushions are a quick and easy job for an upholsterer. Just be sure the covers are removable so you can wash away cooking odors and food stains. Throw pillows should have removable covers as well.
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| If you don't have room for a table and chairs, don't give up. Setting this slender counter to bisect the floor-to-ceiling window may break conventional design rules, but it also provides the perfect spot for an indoor/outdoor breakfast with a view. See the rest of this light-filled kitchen. |
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| Rectangular benches do not require a rectangular table. Look at how well an oval table works in this kitchen. |
by Splendid Willow
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Mix and match. Benches, stools, French cafe chairs and, yes, Fluffy all cozy up to this trestle table.
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Consider clear chairs in a tight spot. Acrylic chairs take up less visual space and can fit in where bulkier chairs might look too cramped and crowded.
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Consider going backless. Upholstered ottomans tuck right under the tulip table in this very small kitchen corner.
This designer is always switching up her home; check out another iteration of this corner here.
This designer is always switching up her home; check out another iteration of this corner here.
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| Go high. This pub table and the tall stools provide a perch with a clear view over the balcony railing. More: 17 Space-Saving Solutions for Small Kitchens Small Kitchens: Big Function How to Detail a Kitchen Island with Legs |
Comments
CAROLE MEYER These are great....love looking out to a view in the morning! Carole
20 months ago · Like
rcates Love the design with 'Fluffy". It's rustic and worldly, sophiscticated and comfortable all at the same time. Will definitely try to duplicate!
20 months ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Oct. 4, 2011.
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