Comfortable & Versatile Breakfast Nook: 10-Step Build

Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by teamobn

Do you have a seemingly empty corner in your kitchen and you want to put it to good use? Are you looking for something that will give extra storage space?

Well, look no further – a breakfast nook with storage is a perfect idea.

Despite its name, breakfast nooks aren’t meant for breakfast alone. It is actually a multi-functional space used for various purposes – for late-night coffee, as homework stations for the kids, for reading a book, when writing emails, and much more. A breakfast nook can be a great way to make use of extra space in your kitchen or dining room.

It can also be a cozy and intimate spot for family meals or entertaining friends. When choosing furniture for your breakfast nook, keep in mind that it should be comfortable and inviting. A round table and chairs are a classic choice, but you can also opt for a bench or sofa. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits the space and can serve its purpose.

Not only is a bench with flip-top covers perfect for when you want to put in additional storage spaces, but it also provides you with the storage that you need. By building a bench with flip-top covers, you can easily store away any items you need, while also providing yourself with a comfortable place to sit.

You can take on the task of building your own nook. With a little time and effort, you can find a variety of plans available for free online. Select a design you like and follow the instructions to get started. By taking on this project yourself, you’ll save a lot of money.

When you first begin planning your nook, it’s important to take into account how much space you have to work with. If you’re limited on space, you’ll need to be more creative with your design. But don’t let that discourage you – a smaller nook can be just as cozy and inviting as a larger one.

Once you have a general idea of the size and shape of your nook, it’s time to start thinking about its purpose. What do you want to use your nook for? Reading? Relaxing? Working on your laptop? All of the above? Keep your purpose in mind as you start planning the rest of your nook’s design.

Now is the time to take the plunge and turn that space in your home into a cozy nook. Just imagine how beautiful and cozy it will be, plus all the extra storage you’re getting. You can transform that space into a haven in no time with a few simple tips. So take a deep breath and dive right in.

Building a Breakfast Nook

Materials

• 8 2 x 4 wood
• 2 ½” smooth plywood – project board
• drywall screws 2-1/4”
• Brad nailer and brads 1-1/2”
• Paint (your choice of color)
• Caulk
• Baseboard/trim
• 2 piano hinges

Tools

• table saw
• miter saw

Instructions

Step 1: Design Your Nook

• Plan the size and shape of your nook. Consider the space available and how many people you want it to accommodate.

Step 2: Cut the Wood

• Using the table saw and miter saw, cut the 2 x 4 wood to build the frame for the bench seating. You’ll need lengths for the sides, front, back, and support beams within the frame.
• Cut the plywood to size for the bench top and front panels.

Step 3: Build the Frame

• Assemble the frame using the cut 2 x 4s. Arrange them to form the bench’s base, ensuring it fits the designated nook area.
• Secure the frame pieces together with drywall screws.

Step 4: Add the Bench Top

• Place the cut plywood on top of the frame as the bench top. Ensure it’s cut to the right size to fit perfectly on the frame.
• Secure the plywood to the frame using the brad nailer and brads.

Step 5: Install Front Panels

• Measure and cut the plywood for the front panels of the bench. These panels will conceal the storage area under the bench.
• Attach the panels to the front of the bench frame using the brad nailer and brads. Leave spaces for the doors if you plan to access the storage area.

Step 6: Add the Piano Hinges

• Attach the piano hinges to the bench top’s back edge. These will allow you to lift the top for storage access.
• If you added doors in the front panels, install piano hinges on them as well for easy opening.

Step 7: Sand and Paint

• Sand the entire bench to smooth out any rough edges and prepare it for painting.
• Paint the bench in your chosen color. Let it dry completely before adding a second coat if necessary.

Step 8: Install Baseboard or Trim

• Measure and cut the baseboard or trim to fit around the bottom edges of the bench. This will give it a finished look and help it blend with the rest of the room.
• Attach the trim using the brad nailer and brads.

Step 9: Caulk for a Finished Look

• Use caulk to fill any gaps between the bench and the wall or between pieces of wood. This will give your breakfast nook a more polished appearance.
• Let the caulk dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 10: Final Touches

• Once everything is dry and set, add cushions or pillows for added comfort. Your breakfast nook is now ready to be enjoyed!

If you’re looking for ways to spruce up your kitchen or create a more inviting breakfast nook. Not sure where to start? Check out our gallery below for some inspiration, and then get started on building your own breakfast nook today!

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Design Tips for a Small Breakfast Nook

Designing a small breakfast nook can transform a tiny corner into a charming and functional space in your home. With the right design choices, even the smallest nook can become a cozy spot for meals, work, or relaxation. Here are some design tips to help you make the most of your small breakfast nook.

Maximize Space with Smart Furniture

Choosing the right furniture when designing a breakfast nook is key to making the most of your space. Opt for a round or small square table that won’t overwhelm the area. These shapes are ideal for maximizing seating without making the nook feel crowded. A pedestal table is smart because it offers more legroom, making it easier to move around and get comfortable.

Benches are another excellent option for small breakfast nooks. They can be tucked under the table when not in use, saving valuable floor space. Look for benches with storage underneath. These can be a game-changer for keeping your nook tidy and organized. You can store anything from table linens and cushions to books and toys. This way, your breakfast nook remains a versatile, functional, and stylish space.

Use Light Colors

The colors you choose for your breakfast nook can significantly affect the space’s feeling. Light colors can make small spaces appear more open and airy. Consider painting your nook in soft, light hues like white, light gray, or pastels. These shades can reflect natural light beautifully, enhancing your nook’s overall sense of space.

However, if you want to add a bit of depth and character to the room, don’t avoid using a darker shade on a single accent wall. This can create a focal point and add a touch of sophistication to your nook. 

To complement the light walls, you can introduce colorful accessories like cushions, rugs, or wall art. These elements can add warmth and personality to your breakfast nook without compromising the feeling of openness created by the light-colored walls.

Embrace Natural Light

Natural light is a valuable asset in any small space. If your breakfast nook is positioned near a window, take full advantage of this feature. Sunlight streaming into the room can instantly make the area feel more spacious and welcoming. To ensure the light flows freely, steer clear of heavy curtains that can block this natural illumination. Instead, choose light, sheer fabrics that softly filter sunlight without significantly reducing the brightness of the space. 

Blinds are another excellent option, offering the flexibility to adjust the amount of light entering the nook throughout the day. By controlling light exposure with blinds, you can create the perfect ambiance for any time of day while maintaining privacy. This strategic use of natural light can transform your breakfast nook into a cheerful spot for enjoying meals and relaxing.

Smart Storage Solutions

Maintaining a clutter-free environment is essential in a small breakfast nook. Clever storage solutions are key to achieving this. Multifunctional furniture, such as benches with built-in storage, is ideal for these spaces. 

These benches not only provide additional seating but also offer a hidden area to store items like linens, cookbooks, or even kitchen gadgets, keeping them accessible yet out of sight. This can help maintain a clean and organized look in your nook, making the space feel larger and more inviting.

Wall-mounted shelves and cabinets are another smart storage option. They utilize vertical space, which is often underused in small areas. By installing shelves or cabinets on the walls, you can display decorative items or store essentials without sacrificing valuable floor space. 

This approach not only helps in organizing your breakfast nook but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. When selecting wall-mounted storage, consider designs that complement the overall style of your nook, ensuring they enhance the space both functionally and visually.

Mirrors Enhance Space

Incorporating a mirror into your breakfast nook can dramatically alter the perception of space. A strategically placed mirror can reflect natural light, significantly brightening the area and making it feel more open. Consider positioning a mirror on a wall opposite a window. This not only maximizes the amount of light reflected but also creates the illusion of an additional window, enhancing the spaciousness of the nook. 

Mirrors also add a decorative element, contributing to the overall style of the space. Whether you choose a large, statement mirror or a series of smaller ones, this simple addition can transform your breakfast nook, making it appear larger and more inviting.

Add Personality with Accessories

Your breakfast nook is the perfect place to express your personal style, even within a small space. Selecting a few bold accessories can inject personality into the nook without overwhelming it. A vibrant vase, an eye-catching piece of art, or unique tableware can serve as a focal point and spark conversation. Textiles are another way to add depth and interest. 

A plush cushion on a bench or a colorful rug under the table can introduce texture and warmth, making the nook feel cozy and inviting. When choosing accessories, aim for items that reflect your personal taste but also complement the overall design of the nook. This thoughtful approach ensures your breakfast nook is not only functional but also a true reflection of your style.

Incorporating Technology into Your Breakfast Nook

In today’s digital age, incorporating technology into your breakfast nook can enhance its functionality and comfort, making it an even more inviting space for morning routines or casual dining. With the right tech additions, your nook can become a seamless blend of style and modern convenience.

Choose Smart Lighting

Smart lighting systems allow you to adjust the brightness and color temperature of your lights directly from your smartphone or through voice commands. Installing smart bulbs in your breakfast nook can create the perfect ambiance for any time of day, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast or working from home. These systems can also be programmed to mimic natural light patterns, contributing to a more vibrant and energized space.

Integrate Charging Stations

With the increasing use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops, having a charging station in your breakfast nook is a must. Consider incorporating built-in USB ports or wireless charging pads into your table or nearby furniture. This ensures your devices are always powered up and within reach, allowing you to read the news, check emails, or entertain the kids without worrying about battery life.

Install Under-Cabinet Speakers

Music or background noise can greatly enhance the atmosphere of your breakfast nook. Under-cabinet speakers are a discreet way to add audio without cluttering the space. These speakers can connect to your devices via Bluetooth, enabling you to play music, podcasts, or news broadcasts while you dine or work, creating a more enjoyable and relaxing environment.

Use Digital Assistants

A digital assistant, like an Amazon Echo or Google Home, can be a great addition to any breakfast nook. These devices can set timers, play music, provide weather updates, and even read recipes out loud, all hands-free. Placing one in your nook can help streamline your morning routine, making it easier to multitask and stay organized.

Smart Window Treatments

Automated blinds or curtains can transform your breakfast nook with the touch of a button. Smart window treatments can be programmed to open and close at specific times, maximizing natural light during the day and providing privacy in the evening. Some models even adjust automatically based on sunlight intensity, helping to maintain the perfect ambiance and temperature in your nook.

Interactive Display Boards

An interactive display board, such as a smart screen or digital bulletin board, can be a central hub for your family. Mounted on a wall, it can display calendars, to-do lists, news updates, or even digital art. It’s a great way to keep everyone informed, entertained, and organized, especially in a family-centered space like the breakfast nook.

Smart Coffee Maker

A smart coffee maker can be programmed from your smartphone, ensuring your coffee is freshly brewed the moment you sit down in your nook. Some models allow you to customize brew strength, temperature, and even brewing times for different days of the week. It’s a luxurious addition that makes mornings smoother and more delightful.

Environmental Controls

Integrating smart thermostats or air quality monitors into your breakfast nook can ensure the space is always comfortable. These devices can adjust the temperature automatically or alert you to changes in air quality, ensuring your nook is a healthy and comfortable environment for eating, working, or relaxing.

Tabletop Tablets

Dedicated tabletop tablets can provide easy access to entertainment, news, or smart home controls without needing to use your phone. These can be particularly useful for quickly looking up recipes, streaming music, or checking the day’s schedule while enjoying your morning coffee.

FAQ on Building a Breakfast Nook

Conclusion

Constructing a breakfast nook with storage is a fantastic way to utilize unused space in your kitchen or dining area. Not only does it offer a cozy spot for meals and activities, but it also provides additional storage to keep your space organized and clutter-free. Following the step-by-step guide, you can create a custom nook that fits your space and style perfectly.