How to
Make Your Kitchen
Perfect for Eating In

No matter how big or small your kitchen may be, you can transform it into a fully functional, stylish eat-in kitchen by employing a little strategy to make the most of the available space. From cozy breakfast nooks to spacious dinner tables that double as work areas, eat-in kitchens come in all shapes and sizes. With a little imagination and the right gear, you can make your kitchen go from a strictly working kitchen to a space that's perfect for eating-in.

In addition to the added convenience of being able to go from the stove and counter right to your eating area, eat-in kitchens provide the perfect spot for friends and family to gather during dinner parties. Small eating spaces make it easy to grab a quick meal on the go. This also lets the family spend more time together while prepping and cleaning up after the meal. Make your kitchen perfect for eating in by following a few simple design suggestions that can quickly transform your space.

Create a Space-Saving Nook

Breakfast nooks work well even in tiny kitchens. Transform a window area or a small corner by building an L-shaped banquette into a corner. Alternatively, use a sturdy bench under a window and pair it with a round table and a couple chairs for a comfortable eating area that takes up minimal space in the kitchen. You can also create a comfy booth area with two benches and a table or a couple built-ins with cushions.

Cozy nooks aren’t only for small kitchens. Larger kitchens also benefit from the instant homeyness of a nook. Scale the size of the table to the amount of available space. Place a dining bench or stools against the wall and then add a stylish table and chairs to round things out. Whether you go large or small, you can quickly dress up your nook with a plush seat cushion for extra support comfort. Add a few throw pillows for a pop of color and your small nook will quickly transform into a quaint spot that’s sure to become one of your favorite hangouts in your new eat-in kitchen.

Invest in Multitasking Furniture 

Every busy cook knows that multitasking is the key to getting your meal out in a timely fashion. Long, narrow dining tables add farmhouse chic appeal while minimizing the amount of floor space taken up with the table and chairs. Bar- or counter-height tables can double as a kitchen island and back-saving workspace. Keep the look simple and streamlined by choosing a neutral color palette for the chairs or stools and warm wood or cool paint colors to coordinate with the rest of the kitchen while adding distinctive style to your eating a prep space. Alternatively, use a bar-height small table for an eating area that doubles as a kitchen table. Add comfortable stools that tuck neatly beneath the table for a sleek look that preserves needed floor space.

Mobility and Flexibility

Adding a counter extension or a flip up leaf to your table lets you quickly expand your seating area when you need it. The added benefit to a flip-up extension is the ability to fold it down when it’s not in use, which saves space without sacrificing your seating capacity. Similarly, adding casters to the bottom of your table lets you adjust your table as needed or roll it completely out of the way to free up your kitchen floor space.

Light it Up

No eat in kitchen is complete without ideal lighting. When you think about your perfect eat-in kitchen, what is the style you see in your mind? From country-chic to sleek and modern, the lighting style you choose helps bring the room together and add appetizing ambience. Try an elegant small chandelier over a fresh breakfast nook or slim pendants over a long table to set the mood and complete the decorative appeal of your eat-in kitchen.