In a successfully planned home, no matter how big or small, there are spots for both casual living and more formal entertaining. Often, those areas are both one and the same, and we find ways to make them function in either sense as we need. The kitchen is no exception. While most homes have a dining room or area to gather with friends and family, the breakfast area is effectively its younger sister: fun, casual and effortlessly stylish.

Situated in the kitchen, a great breakfast area works hard for busy families by offering a space to have a meal, tackle crafts and homework and cook to name a few. So how do we build a hard-working and appealing breakfast area? With a few key ingredients:

Image: CC Interiors by Kiely Ramos Photography — **Image: CC Interiors** by **Kiely Ramos Photography**

START WITH SEATING

Is your breakfast area built into a bay window? Is it nested in between built-in cabinetry? Do you have space for a full booth? Your available space and style will ultimately dictate the look and feel of your breakfast area seating. Aim for seating that wraps around the breakfast area, at least on two or three sides, for conversation flow. Make sure the seating fits your household size (it will not be used for formal events so it need not function for added guests, the exception being if your home lacks another dining area). Plan for bench and chair fabric that can be easily cleaned as food crumbs and spills will inevitably come with the territory.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TABLE

Since the breakfast area is usually against a wall or window in some form, carefully consider the size shape of the table. Space restrictions will possibly call for an angular table but if you have the space, an oval or round table is the easiest to maneuver around. A pedestal table will ultimately be the easiest to tuck in chairs and keep the breakfast area looking neat and uncluttered.

MAKE A STATEMENT WITH LIGHTING

Lighting is the jewelry of a home and the breakfast area is no exception. Choosing a beautiful pendant or chandelier will draw the eyes to that space and define it while providing overhead lighting while dining or working. Depending on the style of the breakfast area, a wall picture light or a pair of sconces could also enliven the space and highlight art.

AIM FOR AN ACCENT WALL

Breakfast areas often sit against a window which provides nice views of the outdoors. When you find yourself against a wall, however, adding wallpaper, upholstered paneling or a great piece of art will give the space a dose of energy and style to make this space pop.

Build a Winning Breakfast Area