Three Ways to Convert a Dated Breakfast Nook
For homes with formal dining rooms, the breakfast nook can take up valuable space in your home. If you find your family doesn't get much use out of the nook area, consider working with a kitchen remodeling service to convert this unused space into a functional addition to your home. Here are some ideas to use for inspiration as you look for ways to make the most out of your old breakfast nook's square footage.
Family Home Office
Adding a family home office next to the kitchen makes it easy for you to help little ones with their homework while preparing meals or tackling housework. This versatile space can be used by every member of your household, and the right finishing touches can also help you maximize storage space in the kitchen. Work with your remodeling contractor to create a cabinet design on at least one wall. These cabinets provide space to stash dinnerware, countertop appliances, and other cooking essentials. Add a built-in desk to another wall, complete with shelves for storing notebooks, binders, and books. This custom desk provides the perfect place for kids to study and for parents to balance the household budget each month. Talk to your contractor about adding some modern features, including USB outlets to charge electronics so laptops and tablets remain ready for use.
Upscale Kitchen Pantry
Pantry space is essential for large families, providing storage for snacks, staples, and produce. Even if your nook is lined with windows, you can convert this space into an upscale walk-in pantry. Your remodeling contractor can install counters just below the bottom of the window line to maintain the open, airy look. The counter provides space to tackle simple meal-prep tasks, such as packing lunches for little ones or repackaging bulk goods into smaller containers. Pullout cutting boards are perfect for prepping fruits and veggies, while integrated produce bins make it easy to store apples, potatoes, and carrots. A combination of cabinets and open shelves below the cabinets provides ample storage for nonperishables and extra cooking supplies. Consider a double sliding door or French-style doors, which can be kept open to create open access to the storage area and can be closed when guests are expected.
Open-Concept Family Room
Breakfast nooks typically serve as gathering spaces for the whole family, but the setup of a table and chairs doesn't always lend itself to comfort. Instead, transform your breakfast nook into an open-concept family room where everyone can gather to watch a movie or chat while meals are being prepared. Work with your remodeling contractor to install a breakfast bar to define the border between your kitchen and new family room. This breakfast bar can be used in place of the nook to serve informal meals without taking up as much square footage. A cozy built-in bench along one wall is perfect for settling in with a good book, and a custom built-in shelving system creates a focal point on one wall of the nook. Use the custom shelving and cabinets to house your television and other audio/visual components to complete your breakfast nook makeover.
It can be scary to commit to kitchen remodeling, but working with a contractor can make the process much easier and more enjoyable.