Problem: Your kitchen is dark, bland, and no one wants to be in there unless their stomach is rumbling. Solution: Install a new window and banquette, creating a cozy, inviting breakfast nook with more light, color, and fabric, and a space for informal dining.

A collection of blue-and-white Chinese and delft porcelain displayed on the walls inspired the palette for this kitchen. Coordinating printed fabrics star, with an eye-catching geometric toile taking center stage, supported by a simple check. The expansive new window replaced two tiny windows in this home, letting the sunshine in and opening up the whole kitchen.

The larger window also required a treatment that wouldn't detract from the newly brightened space or compete with busier patterns. The answer? A clean-lined Roman shade trimmed with bias-strip edging and tassel fringe for a polished finish.

 

The comfortable, upholstered banquette in front of the window provides practical seating space while offering an opportunity to get more fabric into the room in the form of several soft pillows. Here, toile and a floral print with a similar look combine for a tailored look.

An antique English chair was painted and glazed to blend in, allowing the fabric to tell the story. A round walnut table anchors the arrangement and provides contrast in both color and shape.

 

The trestle table in this room can be made smaller and moved to the side, while an ottoman like the one shown here can be moved in front of the banquette, transforming it into a comfy reading nook.