One of the most overlooked and unused rooms in your home is the breakfast nook. This room has a lot of potential for better use if you are willing to put some time into it. Let’s explore ten ideas for what to do with an unused breakfast nook.
Use the breakfast nook as a home office
The first idea for what to do with a breakfast nook is to use it as a home office. This is a great option if you need a space to work from home, but don’t have the extra room in your house. You can install a desk, chair, and filing cabinet (and all of these home office essentials) in the breakfast nook and use it as your primary workspace.
There are several ways that you can use the breakfast nook as a home office. Let’s explore some of them.
Install a desk
One way to use the breakfast nook as a home office is to install a desk. This will give you a place to work, and it will also help to define the space as an office.
Add a chair
If you want your breakfast nook to be a home office, you will need a place to sit when you are working. A chair or two will make it feel more like an office space. If your nook is a smaller space make sure to get some space-saving items or switch to a standing desk. We’ve been using these desks for years and they are great.
Put up shelves
Another way to use the space as an office is to put up shelves. Extra storage for your office supplies and other materials is a must for any home office. Because using the kitchen cabinets as office storage is a no-go.
Use a movable partition
If you don’t want to install a desk or shelves, you can use a movable partition to create a workspace. This will give you some privacy and allow you to turn the nook into a home office quickly and easily. You can use the round kitchen table and chairs and you are good to go. This makes your morning coffee run in the kitchen so much easier.
Use it as a reading nook
Another one of the great breakfast nook ideas on our list is to use it as a reading nook. This is a great place to relax and read your favorite book. All you need is a comfortable chair and some good lighting.
Here are some things you can add to your focused reading nook to make it more comfortable and relaxing.
Add some furniture
One of the easiest ways to make your reading nook more comfortable is to add some furniture. This can include a comfortable chair, a side table, and even a small lamp.
Create a cozy atmosphere
Another way to make your reading nook more comfortable is to create a cozy atmosphere. You can do this by adding some pillows, blankets, and other cozy items. Don’t forget your coffee!
Install some lighting
Good lighting is essential for a reading nook. You should install some overhead lighting, as well as a floor lamp or reading light. This light should provide a soft glow so that your eyes don’t get tired after being in the nook for too long.
Install a window seat
One way to make your reading nook more comfortable is to install a window seat. This will give you a place to sit, and it will also add some extra storage to the room.
Add a rug
Another way to make your reading nook more comfortable is to add a rug. This will add some warmth and comfort to the room and defines the space.
Add a bookshelf
If you have shelving make sure to add a few framed photos to break up the books on it. It gives it a nice decorative flourish and a place to show off your latest reads and new ornaments.
Convert it into a storage area
One of the best things you can do with an unused breakfast nook is to convert it into a storage area. This is a great way to declutter your house and to get some extra storage space. Here are some ways to do that to make sure you have enough space.
Add some bookshelves
One way to use the breakfast nook for storage is to add some bookshelves. This will allow you to store items that would otherwise clutter up the room, and it will also free up any floor space and make better use of the vertical space in the area.
Install floating shelves
Not enough space for bookshelves? Then get some floating shelves. They are easy to install andd give you extra storage for your belongings.
Install a cabinet
Another way to use the space is to install a cabinet. This will give you a place to store your stuff, and it will also help to define the space as a storage area.
Use a closet
A more permanent way to use the space for storage is to use a closet. This will give you plenty of room for your belongings, and it will be out of the way when you are not using them.
Turn it into a landing zone
Another great idea is to turn it into a landing zone. This is a great place to store your belongings, and it will help you to keep your house organized. If your breakfast nook is by the back door or close to the mudroom these are perfect.
Whether you call it a landing zone or a drop zone, these are perfect for growing families because it gives the family a place to leave their stuff as they come back home.
Decorate it with plants
One easy way to make your breakfast nook more inviting is to decorate it with plants. This will add some life and color to the room, and it will also make it more relaxing.
There are a number of ways to incorporate plants into your breakfast nook. Let’s have a look at some options.
Add potted plants
One way to add plants is to simply add potted plants on top of some shelves and make it a mini gallery of green. This is an easy way to brighten up the room and make it more inviting.
Add some greenery
Got a black thumb like me? Two words. Fake plants. They are a way to add plants to your breakfast nook without the maintenance. You can buy hanging plants, or you can pick up a few decorative plants that are made out of fake foliage.
Hang plants from the ceiling
Another way to add plants is to hang them from the ceiling. This will make it feel fresher while not taking up floor or counter space.
Install some window boxes
A more permanent option for bringing in some greenery is to install some window boxes on your breakfast nook’s windows. This will allow you to grow herbs and other plants right outside your breakfast nook windows.
Put a green wall in the nook
If you want to go all out, you can put a green wall in the nook. These are becoming popular for decorating breakfast nooks and other kitchen areas. They provide an oasis of greenery that is both decorative and functional.
Add a potted plant
One easy way to add a plant to your breakfast nook is to add a potted plant. This will give you a place to put the plant, and it will also help to define the space.
Turn it into a craft area
If you don’t have a craft area in your home, now is the perfect time to create one in your unused breakfast nook. This is a great place to store all of your crafting supplies, and it will also be out of the way when you are not using it.
There are a number of things to consider when creating a crafting space in your home. Let’s take a look at some of the most important ones.
How much space do you need?
One of the first things you need to consider is how much space you will need for your crafting supplies. Make sure to take into account the size of your crafting table, the amount of storage you will need, and how much room you will need to move around.
What type of crafting area do you want?
Another thing to consider is what type of crafting area you want. Do you want a dedicated space for sewing or one for scrapbooking? Or would you prefer to have a general crafting area where you can work on any project?
Where is the best layout for your space?
One last thing to consider when creating a crafting space in your breakfast nook is where you want to put everything. Functionality is a key thing so think it through and be prepared to change as you use it.
Turn it into a playroom for kids or pets
If you have kids or pets, your breakfast nook can be turned into a playroom for them. This is a great way to keep them occupied and out of the way when you are trying to cook or eat.
There are a few things you need to keep in mind when converting an area into a playroom for kids or pets. Here are a few of the most important ones:
How much space do you have?
One of the first things you need to decide is how much space you will be using for your children or pets. Remember to account for the size of any furniture, toys, and other items that the playroom will have.
How are kids going to get in there?
You also need to think about how your kids are going to get in and out of the playroom. If you have a pet, how are they going to get in? You might need a gate at the entrance or you might want to create an opening from your breakfast nook into another room.
What type of playroom do you want?
One last thing to consider is what type of playroom you want for your breakfast nook. Do you want a place where they can lay on the floor and watch TV or one with an Amusement Park themed playset or something else more involved and creative? Think about your kids’ interests and keep their personalities in mind when making this decision.
What kind of toys and furniture will you need?
This is another important thing to think about when you are creating a playroom for kids or pets. What toys and furniture will your kids need? Think of their age, interests, and any other factors that might help determine what kind of toys you want to have available. This is also a good time to start thinking about how the room should be decorated.
What are the best layout options for your space?
Finally, you need to consider the best layout options for your space. Think about how their furniture and toys will fit in the room and make sure it is functional for everyone (including pets). Are you making the most of the vertical space and natural light, it’s important for kids when they’re playing to have the proper set up so takes some time to think through the design of the area.
Turn it into a mudroom
A mudroom can be a great addition to your home, and it can be the ideal way to use the extra space of your breakfast nook. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of having a mudroom in your home.
A mudroom is an excellent way to keep clean clothes out of sight.
It’s also a good place to store dirty shoes and other items that need to be cleaned or taken care of.
You can also use your breakfast nook as a mudroom if you have the right layout. Here are some of the most important things to consider:
Practical uses
A mudroom also has practical uses like storing shoes or boots outside before entering the house, which can help prevent dirt from getting inside.
If you have animals, this may not be as helpful since they will likely track dirt into the house anyway. But if you don’t have animals then this might make sense. The best thing about using a breakfast nook as a mudroom is that it gives you more space for this purpose.
Storage
Another important thing to consider when using a breakfast nook as a mudroom is storage. You will need a place to store all of your cleaning supplies, coats, hats, and other items. This can be difficult to do in a small space, so make sure you plan for it. Get a small bench that has extra storage underneath it so you can make the most of this area.
Layout
The layout of your mudroom is also important. You need to make sure that it is easy to access and that everything is within reach. This includes the storage, the washer, and dryer (if you have them), and the toilet (if you have one in your mudroom).
Put in a Murphy bed for guests
Murphy beds are a great way to make use of space in your home. Not only are they functional, but they can also be a great addition to your home’s décor.
There are a few things you need to consider before putting a Murphy bed in your breakfast nook. Here are a few of the most important things to think about:
How much space do you have?
One of the first things you need to decide is how much space you will be using for your Murphy bed. Remember to account for the size of the bed and the room itself.
What type of Murphy bed do you want?
Another thing to consider is what type of Murphy bed you want. Do you want a standard bed or something more unique like a loft bed?
How will it fold up?
You also need to think about how your Murphy bed will fold up. Some beds fold up like a closet door, while others will separate into pieces. Think about how much space you need and what is best for your home.
Where should the bed go?
Lastly, you need to think about where your Murphy bed should go. If there is an existing doorway that leads into another room then this would be the perfect location for your bed. But remember that you will need to account for the size of the bed and any accompanying furniture when thinking about this.
Convert it to a dining room
If you’re not sure what to do with your unused breakfast nook, consider converting it into a dining room. This can be a great way to add more dining space to your home. If you already have a dining room the next question will be “What to do with an unused dining room“.
Use it as a sitting area to relax in while you watch TV
One great way to use your breakfast nook is as a sitting area to relax in while you watch TV. This can be a great way to make use of the space and get some relaxation time in. If you’re looking for some ideas on how to make the most of your sitting area, here are a few tips:
Choose the right furniture
When it comes to furniture for your sitting area, choose pieces that are comfortable and inviting. This might include sofas, chairs, or even a beanbag chair whatever suits your decorating style.
Decorate with plants
Adding plants to your sitting area can help make it feel more relaxing and inviting. Choose plants that are low-maintenance and don’t require a lot of sunlight. This can help save you time and money in the long run.
Use rugs
Adding area rugs to your breakfast nook can also make it feel more inviting. It also helps define each space and adds some color, which can brighten up your home naturally. Consider adding your favorite colors or patterns to each room.
Don’t forget lighting
Lastly, don’t forget about lighting when it comes to your sitting area. Use lamps or hanging lights to brighten up the space and keep it cozy and inviting at all times of day. You can also choose the right time of the year according to decorating with Christmas lights for your breakfast nook.
Final thoughts on what to do with an unused breakfast nook
There are many different ways that you can use an unused breakfast nook in your home. Whether you want to turn it into a mudroom, guest bedroom, or sitting area, there is definitely something for everyone. Just remember to think about what will work best for your needs and the space you have available. These 10 ideas are just a few of the possibilities when it comes to using your breakfast nook.
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