A room to dine for...

A small dining space can be opened up by combining an existing kitchen unit or island as part of the available space.

Wipe out a wall

A non-load bearing wall dividing the kitchen and breakfast area was removed, uniting the two spaces and making both brighter and more open. The new eating area features a built-in bench unit, with storage under the benches and room for additional chairs at the table.

Island style

While island seating is a popular kitchen amenity, this island includes a furniture-look banquette for extra seating at a pedestal table. The banquette's middle-of-the-room location leaves clear routes to adjacent areas

Under counter

The original breakfast bar was incorporated into the bench seating area to add a larger informal eating space to the small dining area. A simple circular glass topped table adds a touch of style to an otherwise informal setting.

A quiet retreat

This very small area on one side of the kitchen was ideal for installing a banquette-style seating arrangement. Casual and informal, this room now serves as the ideal breakfast spot to gather as a family before the day begins.

  source: meredith publishing