Space-Savvy Breakfast Room Banquettes

Stretched across every inch of spare wall, this U-shape banquette maximizes both seating and table space. A long bench placed on the empty side of the table was painted white, allowing it to blend with the floor and the base of the banquette. Storage drawers beneath the bench provide spots to stow away table linens, serving platters, and other dining odds and ends.

A pair of built-in benches and a narrow dining table create an elegant look in this small breakfast nook. Boldly patterned seat cushions add visual weight to the all-white nook and adjoining kitchen. A dainty light fixture overhead boosts visibility after the sun goes down without overwhelming the tiny space.

Banquette seating options make the most of often-unused spaces. This convenient breakfast nook takes advantage of a sunny kitchen corner and provides plenty of laid-back seating for meals and more. A simple rectangular table tucks neatly between a pair of built-in benches, easing movement in and out of the area.

Tap the space beneath a window for a banquette to boost seating and style in your casual dining area. Outfitted with a cozy seat cushion and a collection of comfy throw pillows, this window seat provides comfortable seating for family meals, homework time, or even an after-dinner cat nap.

A window-lined bay provides a sunny backdrop for this storage-packed built-in bench. Contemporary chairs pair nicely with a sleek, modern table and a whimsical light fixture. A playful mix of patterns and colors creates a youthful energy and an inviting atmosphere that's suited to casual entertaining.

Transform an ordinary window seat into a convenient banquette using nothing more than a table and a few chairs. This sun-drenched space offers the perfect setting for a cozy breakfast nook. The slim table provides plenty of room for casual dining without disrupting traffic flow.

A banquette provides a casual dining area and a convenient alternative to eating in the main kitchen work space. This built-in takes advantage of an unused corner just outside the kitchen's work zones. A hip tulip table and a modern clamshell light fixture create a decidedly modern vibe, while bold blue chairs and a patterned seat cushion break up the stark look of the white walls and fixtures.

Banquettes can lend storage space for kitchens with limited cabinet space. The top of this L-shape bench lifts to reveal storage for rarely-used kitchen equipment. An open round tabletop provides plenty of space for casual family dinners and more.

An empty wall off of this kitchen proved to be the perfect location for a casual breakfast nook. The L-shape bench stretches across the spare wall, transforming a potentially awkward space into something useful. The banquette faces a wall of French doors and boasts stunning views of the patio beyond, creating a relaxing early-morning retreat.

Tucked into a sun-drenched bump-out, this banquette provides a convenient space for everything from casual family dinners to homework. Convenient built-ins on each side of the banquette provide storage for breakfast dishes and everyday dining essentials. A graphic seat cushion and throw pillows add visual interest to the all-white kitchen.

This tiny L-shape banquette tucks neatly into a corner of this cozy cottage kitchen. Topped by windows, the bench provides a sunny spot to enjoy a relaxing breakfast or the morning paper. A small table fits snugly against the bench without interrupting traffic flow around the nearby kitchen island.

Banquettes need not be built in to be functional. Here, a freestanding upholstered bench creates an elegant yet casual breakfast nook. The simple white fabric lends a neutral backdrop to patterned blue-and-white throw pillows and colorful dishware. A wicker chair adds seating that can be easily moved to accommodate a serving buffet or drink station while entertaining.

Open floor plans lend well to built-in banquettes. A remodel allowed these homeowners to open the kitchen to the nearby dining room and incorporate a breakfast nook into a corner. The glass tabletop and light fixture create a youthful energy that is echoed by the graphic window treatments and throw pillows as well as the bold orange seat covers.

Drawing inspiration from a shapely tulip table, a curved banquette adds softness to a sunny corner of this family kitchen. Lucite chairs with retro floral fabric covers steal the show, while colorful throw pillows and an overhead gallery of small prints echo the covers' playful appearance and youthful energy.

A long bay window outside this kitchen's main work space offers the perfect spot to tuck a casual breakfast nook. In addition to seating space, the banquette boasts underseat storage for serving platters and other kitchen equipment. The table's drop leaf clears the way for traffic but can be raised to accommodate extra diners.

Instead of a standard table and chairs, this eat-in kitchen is outfitted with a banquette. A simple wraparound bench lines one side of the sleek, modern table to boost seating and style. Painted black, the bench anchors itself firmly to the ground and is balanced by a bold black light fixture.

Cozy up in a corner with an L-shape banquette. This simple breakfast nook provides casual dining space as well as a spot to converse with the cook. A collection of comfy throw pillows keeps the white space looking warm and inviting, while vintage dishware and collectibles above create an undeniably feminine vibe.

A semicircular banquette creates a cozy gathering spot in this family home. Outfitted with stain-resistant fabrics and a zinc tabletop, the space is both beautiful and hardworking. An extra chair incorporates additional seating but can be moved for easy bench access.

Located just outside the kitchen's main work zone, this relaxed breakfast nook provides the perfect spot for casual gatherings. A kitchen table tucks neatly up to the cozy window seat, which makes use of an awkward bump-out created by a deep bay window. Bamboo chairs and window shades play up the kitchen's cheerful, beachy aesthetic.

A cushy window seat doubles as a sunny breakfast banquette in this traditional kitchen. Thick white trim and heavy paneling provide a dramatic contrast to soft orange walls and set the space off as the kitchen's focal point. Freestanding chairs around the table provide additional seating.