We, my husband and I, are entering a new phase in life. It’s called, empty nest. Are you familiar with this period? Some reading this may already be here and some are a long way from it. With this new chapter, I am trying my best to embrace all the emotions so I experience the best outcome. I have allowed my creative side to dig deep and found a way to birth new life into what used to be the most lively space in our home. In this post, I am sharing how I am re-purposed our breakfast nook into something more quaint. The title, new season / new space felt like a good way to sum it up.
Thank you to Boutique Rugs for gifting this rug. This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through my links, you are helping cover the costs of maintaining this blog.
All opinions are 100% my own.
Where I Found Inspiration
Let me begin by saying we still have a dining table. In our original house plans, there was a dining room space that we opted to incorporate into additional living room comfort instead. It’s funny, because I have always struggled to decorate around the window seat. Turns out, moving our kitchen dining table to this area not only solved an awkward spot, but made way for another cozy space to develop. I’ll be sharing more on this dining space in a later post.
I have a group of friends who share something in common. They all have a seating area within their kitchens. Gathering in their kitchens always seems extra warm and cozy. For years, I told myself that one day I would incorporate one too. Hard to believe I have landed in a phase where this finally makes sense.
New Season / New Space
The peninsula shown here gets the most use. Our youngest, Mikayla, prefers to sit here for most meals. That was also the space Glenn and I would sit and catch up on each other’s weeks while enjoying a cocktail. I plan on purchasing a third (and maybe fourth) counter stool now that we have more space. This will also allow for more guests to gather here even with the table removed.
It was always so tight with the table, especially when the leaves were in. Now, G and I have a cozy space to catch up in and there is even more room at the counter should we choose to sit there. I prefer to sit at the table for family meals which is still possible, just around the corner now 😉
Design Details
After removing the table, open shelves, and buffet, I was able to begin with a clean slate. Outside of the new rug and floor lamp, I primarily shopped my home to design this space. Balance is important to me, so I stood at all angles to determine how I would situate the chairs. I wanted to make sure I didn’t take away new space I was saving by removing the larger furniture pieces, while also making sure the counter stools could move freely.
Adding an area rug is always a good idea, here’s why:
- They add color and pattern to a room helping to tie together the overall design.
- They define different areas within a larger open space.
- Rugs help to anchor furniture and make the room feel more cohesive.
- Rugs can offer feelings of warmth and comfort. Both aesthetically and literally.
- They aid in protecting floors, particularly in high traffic areas with kids and pets.
Link to this Rug and More
Here is the link to this exact rug from Boutique Rugs ⇒ Dauin Area Rug
SAVE 5% to already low prices when you use my link.
Below are links to more like this featured in the new collection.
- Gyundyukoru Area Rug
- Dinganen Area Rug
- Tutay Area Rug
- Tabonoc Area Rug
- Palimbang Area Rug
- Vineyards Area Rug
- Manyas Area Rug
- Maduao Area Rug
- Mpumalanga Area Rug
So, what do you think of this concept? I am interested in hearing your thoughts. Be on the look out for a post dedicated to the new dining space.
Author and photos – Martha Knake
Chief Editor – Emily Janssen
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