Creating a casual dining area in your kitchen is a great way to add extra seating and make the most of your space. Here are 9 ideas for designing a cozy and inviting perch for quick meals and casual gatherings in the heart of your home.
Choose the Right Spot
When picking the location for your kitchen dining nook, consider flow and accessibility. Opt for a space adjacent to or visible from your work triangle if possible, for easy cooking access. Look for areas with access to natural light and views of your backyard or garden. Near windows or French doors works well. Just be sure to measure to make sure you have room for seating.
Use a Banquette
Banquettes are classic for kitchen dining. Built-in bench seating makes efficient use of space. Fill the banquette with plush cushions and throws for comfort. Consider storage underneath or select a design with shelving around the banquette for holding dishes and linens. Upholster the bench in a durable, stain-resistant fabric.
Add a Bar Table and Stools
For small kitchens, a bar table with two or three bar stools creates flexible, casual dining. Look for a table with handy storage shelves underneath or opt for a bistro style. Round tables encourage easy conversation. Just be sure to have adequate room to pull chairs out without blocking doors or work areas.
Use a Kitchen Island
Including seating at your kitchen island creates an instant dining space. Opt for counter stool seating with backs to make it most comfortable and pull up for quick breakfasts or snacks. Consider adjustable-height stools to accommodate all ages and abilities. Add pendant lighting overhead to make the space feel complete.
Make a Breakfast Nook
Carve out a corner breakfast nook with a small table and chairs in a kitchen bay window or sunny spot. Cushioned chairs or a banquette make it extra cozy. Add curtains or blinds for privacy and lots of pillows and throws to create the feel of an intimate dining room.
Multitask with a Desk Area
For small kitchens short on space, a desk area with a small table and chairs can also double as a dining space when needed. Use a fold-down leaf or small gate-leg style table. Store board games or laptops in extra chairs when not in use. A desktop hutch offers additional storage for dining essentials.
Let in Light with a Glass Table
Using a glass top dining table opens up the space visually and allows more light to filter through. Balance it with chairs featuring warm woods and cozy upholstered backs and seats. Consider a tile pattern or medallion area rug underneath for interest. Hang a decorative light fixture over the table as a focal point.
Create an Eat-In Dining Space
Don’t be afraid to add full-sized dining furnishings like an oval table and four chairs to create an eat-in dining room right off your kitchen. Paint or wallpaper the walls and add art and lighting to designate it as a separate space. Install a floor-to-ceiling bookcase or china cabinet to help delineate the area.
Define the Area with Architecture
Use architectural elements to create a clear boundary for your casual dining zone. For example, install room divider panels or screens, open shelving units, or half walls. You can also extend your kitchen’s backsplash tile, paint color, or accent wallpaper into the dining area. Lighting and area rugs also help define the space.
Creating a dedicated perch for dining in your kitchen helps encourage frequent family meals and gives you flexibility when entertaining. Just be sure to pick seating and tables that reflect your personal style. The options are endless, from farmhouse chic to sleekly modern. Use your kitchen dining nook everyday or reserve it for special Sunday dinners – either way, it will become a cherished spot for connecting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creating a Casual Dining Area in the Kitchen
What size should a kitchen dining area be?
For a kitchen dining nook, plan for at least 15-25 square feet of floor space. This allows room for a small cafe table with two chairs or counter stools at a kitchen island. For a more complete eat-in dining area, allot 50-75 square feet for a 4-6 person table with chairs.
Where should the dining zone be located in a kitchen?
Look for a space near windows and natural light if possible. Adjacent to the kitchen work triangle is ideal for easy serving access. If space is tight, create a breakfast nook in a corner or bay window. Near French door access to a patio is another prime spot.
What table shape works best?
For small nooks, a round or oval table is good for conversational seating. Square and rectangular tables maximize seating in narrow spots. Banquettes call for long, straight tables to fit flush against the bench.
What is a good size for a kitchen table?
Allow at least 36 inches around each seat for ample elbow room. A 48-60 inch round table seats 3-4. For 6 people, look for a 72 inch oval or 60-84 inch rectangular table. Banquettes and built-in nooks have customized sizes.
What types of seating work in a kitchen dining area?
Look for space-saving options like benches, stools, and chairs with arms but no back for quick in-and-out. More formal chairs and padded seats are nice for lingering meals. Choose wipeable upholstery if not using tablecloths.
Should the colors and materials match the kitchen?
Coordinate any built-in banquettes or benches with cabinetry for a cohesive look. Beyond that, feel free to create a separate palette and style from the main kitchen. Use dining fabrics, lighting, rugs, and art to set the space apart.
Is a rug recommended under the table?
Rugs help define a dining zone within an open concept kitchen. They also provide comfort underfoot and absorb sound. Choose a low pile rug or one with a non-slip backing. Avoid fringes around the edges to prevent tripping. Go for stain-resistant materials.
What kind of lighting should be used?
In addition to the kitchen’s overall lighting, add dedicated dining lighting. Pendant fixtures over tables work well. Wall sconces by banquettes provide ambient light. Mini pendant lights over an island seating area create a unique look.
What are good ways to decorate the dining nook?
Beyond your table and chairs, try an area rug, floating shelves or a hutch for storage, curtains or blinds for windows, and some wall art. Seasonal table linens and placemats allow you to easily change up the look as desired.
Conclusion
Creating a casual dining nook in your kitchen is one of the best ways to get more use out of your space. An eat-in configuration allows for effortless mealtime prep and cleanup. Built-in or compact furnishings help maximize seating without eating up too much room. Positioning the dining zone near windows and light helps create an inviting ambiance. Include storage, lighting and decor to make the perch feel polished. Then get ready to enjoy all the family meals, homework sessions, and cups of coffee this handy home hotspot offers.
