Eat-In Kitchens

When working with a smaller space, a window seat is the perfect solution to add extra seating. 

A custom octagonal, quartz-topped table surrounded by three chairs and a freestanding banquette "offers a lot of seating in a tight space," says designer Melissa Haynes. The pair of fruit drawings gives a subtle nod to the room's color scheme.

To combat inevitable food spills, use a linen-and-rayon fabric coated with polyurethane in your kitchen. 

Furthering her plan to enhance the room's architecture, designer Suzanne Kasler turned one corner of the kitchen into a cheery dining area with an L-shaped built-in bench that mimics the cabinetry. To keep the dining nook cozy (not restaurant-like) she surrounded the metal bistro table with slipcovered armchairs and hung a sparkly chandelier above.

• See more of the Lighten Up Kitchen Update

To maximize the footprint of this Palm Beach, Florida pied-à-terre mother-daughter design duo Marjorie Johnston and Wendy Barze completed a gut renovation. Opening the dining room to the kitchen created a cohesive space. 

Use an eclectic mix of seating types, like benches and dining chairs, around your table.

This homeowner uses her peninsula on a daily basis for casual dining, but it also serves as a buffet and bar while entertaining.

A kitchen that’s open to the dining area is a good layout for the social cook. “A wonderful kitchen that’s big enough to have friends and family nearby while a meal is being prepared is the difference between a good house and a great one,” says homeowner Michael.

The furnishings in this breakfast area mirror the color palette established by the cabinetry and countertops.

A built-in booth takes advantage of a tight space. The benches are easy to clean with vinyl upholstery.

A built-in banquette is not only a stylish kitchen seating option; you can also use the space under the seat to store small appliances and other oversize items.

This homeowner used bright upholstery on her dining chairs to accent a neutral kitchen.

For a softer look, cover wooden chairs with washable slipcovers.

Don’t like dangling your feet from a barstool? Instead of using bar seating at your island, tuck a dining table underneath the bar ledge.

A table on casters can be rolled out of the way when necessary.

Want More?
See more kitchen dining ideas in our Dining in the Kitchen video.