Kitchen nooks are some of the most important places in the home. That’s where meals are shared, trivial or important matters are discussed, homework being done, delicious recipes prepared, or tête-à-têtes when private heart-to-heart talks unfold. If I had to be a fly on the wall, this would be a strategic spot.
Those who have big homes, and also big kitchens, think about having one of these. Commandeer a space in the corner to set up a table and chairs. If you’re someone who does the cooking, this helps you to have your guests join you as you prepare the meal. Excellent for socializing.
You don’t have that big of a space? I suggest you make yourself a space-saving banquette. These are upholstered benches or seating placed against a wall. Who chooses to sit in such tables in restaurants, raise your hand.
Here are my reasons for having this in your kitchen nook!
Cozy and Comfortable
The banquette should be flushed against the wall. If your wall is curved, it is best to have a seating that is custom-made for that space. This is a great space that offers a view of everyone, specially if you have a round or oval table. Great huddling opportunities right here, just like football athletes planning the next play or giving encouragement to each other.
Add comfortable seats on the other sides but make sure that there is space for people to go in and out, both sides if possible.
The downside is that it may be difficult to get in and out for those who are not on the edges of the banquette. You may need to scoot over, and this may be difficult for people who are not so nimble.
Savvy Storage
You can use the space under the banquette seating as additional storage space. Put things in there that you don’t need to use often. You can even store games in there.
Personally, I would have some space between the floor and the built-in storage underneath the banquette for easy cleaning.
Room Divider
A banquette is a good way to divide open spaces and create separation between the kitchen and the dining area. Just make sure that access between both is easy. Another thing to keep in mind is to have the same kind of interior style to create a cohesive look.
You can further define the space by doing color blocking.
Additional Dining Space
Got a huge family or a wide circle of friends? Use the kitchen nook to accommodate more guests. It’s an informal space so make sure that you’re not planning a sit-down dinner.
Banquettes in Kitchen Nooks
The shape of your banquette could be straight, L-shaped, or U-shaped, depending on the contours of your walls. But whatever shape it is, you can be sure that it would add value to your home for its space efficiency, as additional storage, as an alternative social space, and for its zoning function so you can demarcate areas clearly in open spaces.
I would recommend Boysen Healthy Home for your kitchen and kitchen nook. It is a premium, odor-less, low-VOC, lead-free paint with a durable satin finish. It is an acrylic water-based interior coating with antibacterial protection to give extra defense against bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, as well as mildew and fungus. Boysen Healthy Home is ideal for walls and ceilings in your kitchen, as well as other damp and humid areas in the house.
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