How to Add a Breakfast Nook During Your Kitchen Remodel

Let’s be honest—there’s something magical about a breakfast nook. That snug little corner where you sip your morning coffee, flip through a magazine, or just watch the world wake up. It’s not just about adding seats to your kitchen. It’s about adding warmth, memory-making, and a sense of place.

So, if you’re already tearing up the tiles, moving walls, or upgrading cabinets, it’s the perfect time to build in that dreamy nook. And if you’re wondering how to do it right, you’re in the right place. Remodeling can be chaotic. But adding a breakfast nook during your kitchen remodel doesn’t have to be.

With smart planning, a pinch of creativity, and some inspiration (shout-out to CozyCasa, who nails this every time), you can make it a game-changer in your home.

Why a Breakfast Nook Feels Like Home

Ever notice how everyone gathers in the kitchen, no matter how big the house is? A breakfast nook taps into that energy. It’s an anchor—a place that invites pause. It turns a functional space into something emotional.

Think back. Sunday pancakes with your kids. That late-night cup of tea after a hard day. Or just a quiet place to journal while the sun spills in. A nook gives those moments a home.

It’s not just about function. It’s about feeling.

Planning First: Finding the Right Spot

Before you grab a hammer, pause. Where will your breakfast nook live? Not every kitchen has a bay window, and that’s okay.

Here are a few places it could fit naturally:

• In front of a window (for natural light)

• In a kitchen corner (for cozy vibes)

• At the end of a galley kitchen

• As part of a kitchen island extension

• Under a staircase (small-space hack)

Don’t force it. Your nook should flow with the layout, not fight it. Look for “dead” space—areas that don’t serve a strong purpose right now. That’s where your nook belongs.

Pro Tip: Sketch it out on graph paper or use kitchen design software. Measure everything. A cramped nook can feel more like a mistake than a moment.

Comparing Breakfast Nook Placement Options

Design That Works: Bench, Chairs, or Both?

Now, let’s talk seating. Your breakfast nook can go full booth, partial bench, or all chairs. Each choice affects space, comfort, and style.

Built-in benches give that classic, diner-style charm. They can also double as storage—lift the seat and voila! Perfect for hiding those board games or your holiday tableware.

Chairs, on the other hand, keep it flexible. You can mix and match styles, add cushions, and easily move things around.

Want the best of both worlds? Do a U-shaped bench on two sides and leave one side open with chairs. This keeps it comfy but still accessible.

Whatever you choose, don’t forget about ergonomics. No one wants to eat pancakes with their knees hitting the table.

Materials Matter: Keep It Real and Durable

You’re going to use your breakfast nook. A lot. So build it with real life in mind. Think of sticky fingers, coffee spills, and toast crumbs.

Here’s what works well:

• Bench cushions with washable covers

• Stain-resistant fabrics (look for performance fabrics like Sunbrella)

• Durable wood or laminate tables

• Wipeable wall treatments (hello, beadboard!)

This is not the place for delicate upholstery or high-maintenance marble. Keep it simple, strong, and easy to clean. You’ll thank yourself every day.

Lighting: Set the Mood

Lighting can make or break a space. For a nook, it should feel warm, not surgical. If you’ve got a window, maximize that daylight. Use sheer curtains or roman shades to keep it soft.

No window? No problem. Add a pendant light or small chandelier above the table. Something low-hanging creates intimacy—like a spotlight for connection.

Lighting Tips:

• Use warm LED bulbs (2700K is your friend).

• Add a dimmer to control the vibe.

• Avoid overly bright or cool-toned lights.

Think of it like café lighting: gentle, flattering, and just bright enough for reading a menu—or your morning email.

Decor: Add Soul, Not Just Style

Here’s where you make the nook yours. This is the layer that makes a space feel loved. Think soft throw pillows, framed photos, or a vase of wildflowers.

Some cozy add-ons to try:

• A shelf above the bench for books or plants

• Seasonal decor (mini pumpkins, holiday garlands)

• A gallery wall of kid drawings or vintage prints

• A small rug under the table for texture

This isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about story. Let your nook tell yours.

Storage: Hidden Perks That Make Life Easier

One of the biggest perks of a breakfast nook is hidden storage. If you’re doing built-in benches, you’re sitting on a goldmine. Literally. That space under the seat? It’s storage paradise.

Use it for:

• Extra dishware

• Table linens

• Arts and crafts

• Pet food or supplies

• Emergency snack stashes

Just add lift-top seats or drawers. And if you’re short on cabinets, this storage becomes a lifesaver.

Budget: You Don’t Need to Break the Bank

Good news—you don’t have to spend a fortune. Sure, you can go custom (and if so, CozyCasa’s design inspo is worth checking out). But you can also DIY a beautiful breakfast nook on a budget.

Some smart money-saving moves:

• Use IKEA kitchen cabinets as bench bases

• Repurpose an old dining table with a fresh coat of paint

• Thrift your chairs and mix styles

• Use peel-and-stick wallpaper for a quick style boost

This is a small space. Even a few hundred bucks can go a long way. Focus on quality materials, not flashy extras.

Emotional Impact: What a Nook Really Brings

It’s easy to focus on furniture and layout. But don’t forget what you’re really building: connection. A breakfast nook becomes the emotional heartbeat of your kitchen. It’s where life happens.

It’s a place where:

• Kids do homework while you prep dinner

• You sneak in coffee before the chaos starts

• Weekend brunch feels like a ritual

• Guests feel instantly at home

It’s warmth. It’s rhythm. It’s something money can’t really buy.

Final Thoughts: Let It Grow With You

Your nook doesn’t have to be perfect from day one. Like any good relationship, it evolves. Add new pillows. Change up the art. Shift the table if your family grows.

The beauty is in the lived-in feel. A space that grows with your life. That feels like you.

So, if you’re in the middle of a remodel, pause and carve out this little corner. You won’t regret it. And hey, if you need inspiration, CozyCasa has nailed this vibe time and time again—worth browsing their work before you start sketching.