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Looking for a cozy, stylish spot for morning coffee or casual family meals? A breakfast nook can transform an unused corner or open space into a warm and inviting gathering spot. Whether you’re working with a small kitchen, an open layout, or a dedicated dining nook, these ideas will help you create a beautiful and functional space!
Not every home has a built-in breakfast nook, but you can create one almost anywhere!
- Corner Spaces – A cozy nook in the corner of your kitchen or dining area makes great use of underutilized space.
- Window Seating – A banquette or bench near a window creates a bright, inviting nook.
- Against a Wall – If space is tight, placing a table against the wall with chairs on one side maximizes flow.
- Open Floor Plan Dining Nooks – A defined seating area within an open kitchen/living space works beautifully!
💡 Tip: If you have limited space, opt for benches or banquettes instead of bulky chairs!
2. Choosing the Right Table & Seating
The right combination of table and seating makes all the difference!
Best Table Shapes for Breakfast Nooks
- Round Tables: Great for small spaces and easy conversation.
- Rectangular Tables: Best for larger families or entertaining.
- Extendable Tables: Perfect for flexible seating when guests come over.
Seating Options
- Built-In Banquette: Space-saving and cozy (great for storage, too!).
- Bench Seating: Casual and functional—ideal for kids.
- Traditional Chairs: Best for flexibility and a classic look.
- Mix & Match: Try benches on one side and chairs on the other!
💡 Tip: If you have kids, skip upholstered chairs—wipeable materials like wood, leather, or performance fabric are lifesavers.
3. Breakfast Nook Storage Ideas
Small spaces need smart storage solutions. Here’s how to add function to your nook:
- Built-in Benches with Hidden Storage – Perfect for extra kitchen essentials or kids’ toys.
- Floating Shelves – Display your favorite mugs, cookbooks, or décor.
- Corner Cabinets or Sideboards – Adds storage without taking up much space.
4. Styling Your Breakfast Nook: Decor & Lighting
Once you have the basics, it’s time to style your nook!
Lighting Ideas
- Pendant Lights – A single statement pendant works well for round tables.
- Chandeliers – Classic and elegant, great for a larger space.
- Wall Sconces – A space-saving option for small nooks.
Decorating Your Nook
- Rugs – Add warmth with a soft area rug under the table.
- Artwork & Mirrors – A framed print or round mirror makes the space feel finished.
- Cozy Cushions & Throws – If you have a bench or banquette, add plush cushions for comfort!
5. Breakfast Nook Style Guide: Find Your Look
If you’re not sure what style suits your home, here’s a quick guide:
✨ Farmhouse Breakfast Nook – Rustic wood, neutral tones, linen cushions.
✨ Modern Breakfast Nook – Clean lines, minimal decor, sculptural chairs.
✨ Traditional Breakfast Nook – Classic shapes, detailed molding, chandelier lighting.
✨ Coastal Breakfast Nook – Light wood, airy fabrics, woven textures.
💡 Tip: Mix styles! A modern table with classic chairs or a farmhouse table with sleek pendant lighting can make your space unique.
Final Thoughts: How to Create the Perfect Breakfast Nook
A breakfast nook isn’t just about looks—it’s about function and comfort. Whether you’re working with a small space or a larger dining area, the right seating, lighting, and decor can create a welcoming nook for everyday meals and special gatherings.
Love these breakfast nook ideas? Save this post to Pinterest or share it with a friend who’s designing their dream space!
We’re a family of five, with one smaller eating space. For everyday use, we have a smaller, round pedestal table, with four chairs and one stool (for the youngest). When company comes, (remember company?) we would either put in the table leaf move the table so that we’d all fit (even though it crowded into other spaces–because who cares, it’s for a short period of time), or we’d feed the kids first, and then sit down to a leisurely adults only dinner. Basically, I think we should first think about what suits our family’s needs firsts, and let the secondary needs sort themselves out, as they almost always do. I mean, I grew up in a normal sized house with four siblings, and yet there was always room for extra kids and company, even if that meant that us kids were kicked out of our rooms and bedded down in the rec room for a sleepover for a few nights. Design your kitchen for how you want it to work for your family, and everything else will work itself out.
Hi Wilma! Thanks for your comment. You’re SO right. We never used our dining room (save for once a year) so having the smaller dining space will make so much more sense for our family. And yes – we can do the exact same thing and just move the table out, add the leaf etc. etc. We’ll make it work for our family and not worry about those rare occasions that we host (if that ever happens again lol)
So excited for you. I love the nook look. I am like you I would try your kitchen table first and it will probably work well in the space. If not purchase a round one. Love all your decorating projects and great advice. Blessings, M
Thanks Mary!