How many times have we read about the importance of sharing family dinner? Research has linked sharing family meals to higher self-esteem, healthier relationships with food, and more. For me, many of my favorite memories were also made around our family’s kitchen table. Growing up with four kids meant my parents navigated four sports schedules, four after-school activities, and four personalities. But somehow, we sat together around our kitchen table nearly every night.
Now as a parent, I realize how challenging this commitment must have been to keep and how grateful I am for those memories. So, I want the same for my kids and our family. Having a great place to sit down together and make this idea a reality is a must.
We all want to have a dining area that invites us to sit down together as a family. These warm kitchen nooks and gorgeous dining areas are perhaps the inspiration we need. These gathering spots include cozy breakfast nooks, storage benches, modern lighting, and creative wall decor. For all of the inspiration, check out some of our favorite kitchen nooks and dining areas for family dinner inspiration.
Kitchen Nooks
1. Light and Bright
Different neutrals meet in perfect harmony right here. With standout features like a show-stopping light fixture, a built-in bench situated near a vast window, and curated table setting, this set up is what slow morning brunch dreams are made of.
2. Elevated Farmhouse
From statements like brick wall, to an ornate table, to personal touches like a ruched table cloth and bold light fixture, this takes modern farmhouse to a new level.
3. Eye-Catching Accents
Give those light and bright areas a little bit of pizzazz with accents that demand to be seen. Simple things like a crystal chandelier or textured chairs go a long way.
4. Moody Vintage
A white built-in seating area doesn’t limit us to only having a bright space. In fact, we can make our space feel just a little moody but just as cozy with a mixture of dark and natural elements. Accentuate the space with vintage style decor and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind kitchen nook.
5. Creatively Simple
When there’s built in seating around the table, it’s not always necessary to add much more. A fun pattern here and there, a chic table, and a floral centerpiece is all this space needed to be inviting.
6. Traditional
Dark wood, subtle colors, and brass accents make this nook effortlessly traditional in the best way.
7. A Feminine Touch
While the furniture around this setup—like a leather sofa and bold black chairs—pull more masculine, the floral elements and geometric light fixture add some lovely feminine touches. This kitchen nook is the perfect example that you really can have the best of both worlds.
8. Mid-Century
If you can’t get enough of soft curves mixed with clean lines and a retro-futuristic feel, a mid-century inspired kitchen nook may be the way to go. That’s exactly what makes this nook oh so cozy and chic.
9. Nature Inspired
We love that not only is this kitchen area full of eye catching plants, but there are also some elements that nod to nature, such as all of the warm woods incorporated throughout.
10. Colorful and Creative
What’s so great about this kitchen nook is it’s the perfect blend of eccentric and neutral. We love the statement pieces like the hand chaired mixed with subtle colors. Pairing it with neutral wood makes it feels perfectly balanced.
Dining Areas
11. Subtle Personality
One thing we loved most about this dining area is the mixing and matching of dining chairs. While uniformity is usually the norm, using more than one style gives the space a coziness it may not otherwise have.
12. Modern but Personalized
All personalization does not need to be lost in the name of modern design. We love that the modern textures and shapes of this dining area are married perfectly with fun colors and patterns for a truly unique and jaw-dropping room.
13. Industrial
The colors, textures, and light fixture of this space scream “bold.” The perfect design inspiration for anyone drawn to the industrial style home.
14. Warm and Welcoming
In a space with tons of natural light, it makes sense to accentuate the brightness coming in. Using natural wood, a variety of shapes, and plants make it a warm and inviting space.
15. Classic
Sometimes, it’s best to not fix what isn’t broken. This dining area is the perfect example of classic style, with neutrals, woods, and simple but lovely accents.
16. Carefully Curated
Many of us spend lots of time making our spaces into the place we feel at home. This concept feels especially intentionally in this dining area. From the color of the walls, to the statement piece of art, to the unique table and beyond, it feels authentic and intentional.
17. Eclectic
Every part of a home should be a reflection of our personalities. If eccentric, fun, and colorful describe you, allow your dining area to follow suit, like the eye catching option below.
18. Making a Statement
Sometimes all a relatively plain space needs is a few statement pieces to make it really personal. In a light room, a dark table, unique light fixture, and eye catching rug can go a long way.
