20 Small Dining Room Apartment Breakfast Nooks With Corner Bench Ideas To Make The Most Of Limited Space

This post shows you the best small dining room apartment breakfast nooks with corner bench ideas.

After moving into a small apartment, I had to be creative with every inch of my space.

I opted to design a cozy breakfast nook with a corner bench.

Like a full-set dining room, my breakfast nook has become a charming dining spot for me and my family while making the most of the limited space.

In this article, I will share my favorite small dining room ideas that you can use in your apartment breakfast nook with a corner bench to maximize your limited space. Keep scrolling to find what suits you.

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Consider a curved built-in bench

A curved breakfast nook makes the most of a small dining room’s limited space by adding more seating.

Instead of keeping the wall idle, consider transforming it into a mini gallery to be a focal point of distraction.

Also, consider building a small counter behind the nook for neatly arranging décor.

Consider an L-shaped bench

If your room is a perfect corner, consider an L-shaped breakfast nook to maximize seating without taking up more space.

Install a cabinet on the side to offer more storage space and declutter your space.

Use simple décor that does not take much space like a small ceramic bowl and candleholders.

Go for a round pedestal table

Another way to make your breakfast nook bench use most of the space is to opt for a round pedestal table and dining chairs with spacious legroom.

Consider building floating cabinets for extra storage without filling up the space.

Rely mainlyon the immense beauty from the window view.

Hang an attractive chandelier

To efficiently declutter your small breakfast nook, opt for an attractive chandelier that brings out elegance without taking up much space.

Consider placing a large mirror on the wall to reflect light and create an illusion of more space.

To save on space, use a small plush stool instead of a dining chair.

Consider dining chairs that can be tucked

Another way to efficiently maximize the space in your small nook is by settling on dining chairs that can be tucked into each other to create space when not in use.

Consider installing wood paneling for warmth and texture without taking up much space.

Hang a masterpiece pendant light as décor to create an inviting atmosphere and ample space.

Install under-seat cabinets

Another way to work with a squeezed nook is to build under-seat shelves for extra storage and to declutter the space.

Consider building both floating and side cabinets to ensure your space is neat.

Use glossy subway white tiles to act as reflective beauty.

Consider bright accent pillows

Bright accent pillows will add color and personality; therefore, more décor is not required in your small dining nook.

Pair white with grey to create a bold accent that adds depth and character without eating into your physical space.

Install built-in backrest

To reduce the bulk of throw pillows and extra-comfort chairs, which will take more space, provide extra comfort using built-in plush backrests.

A chandelier will take up so much overhead space; therefore, go for a built-in wall lighting fixture.

Consider a c-shaped breakfast nook for more seating space.

Go for multipurpose furniture

This breakfast nook serves as multipurpose furniture by acting as a countertop for placing décor and a storage unit because of under-seat cabinets.

Consider matching your cushions, curtains, and walls to create an inviting place.

Finally, have freshly picked flowers to brighten your space and keep it fresh.

Consider a slim rectangular pedestal table

If you want spacious legroom and accommodative space for each guest, settle on a slim rectangular pedestal table.

Consider making the table a dining set and a decorative spot with an attractive collection of flower vases and potted plants.

Add a decorative touch to the cushion and throw pillow fabric without overwhelming the room.

Maximize your walls and table

Placing décor and art everywhere will eat into an already small space.

Consider using your wall wisely for photos and a table for added décor.

  Using colored throw pillows and a classic yet rustic chandelier, you can bring more beauty without overwhelming the space.

Consider stark white with an eggshell finish

Painting your walls and built-in nook in an eggshell finish with transparent, open windows that reflect light creates the illusion of even more space.

Invest in wall décor and a single potted plant to declutter your small dining breakfast nook while keeping it glamorous.

Build a dual-purpose bench

If you love reading, you can use your nook as dining seating and a mini reading spot by building a mini library beneath your small breakfast nook.

Add warmth and charm easily without overwhelming your space by opting for rustic wooden dining chairs and table.

Opt for a glass tabletop

Magically, a glass table top will create a sense of openness in your small breakfast nook.

Use your vertical space by building a floor-to-ceiling cabinet for extra storage and keeping the space neat.

Settle on a simple stool, artistic cushion fabric, and throw pillows to add a rustic touch without taking up much space.

Use windows as décor

If your small apartment faces beautiful architecture, consider installing a transparent window to enhance indoor beauty.

Consider using shorter dining chairs that can easily be tucked under the table to create more space after dining.

Instead of having spacious décor, use an attractive multicolored dining carpet.

Settle on a minimalist design

Consider building a minimal breakfast nook design to reduce clutter and make the space look bigger and more spacious.

Keep your small space neat by carefully arranging your framed photos on the wall.

Consider bold white color on walls to add depth and character without overwhelming the space.

Mix and match color

Adding physical accessories as décor in your small dining breakfast nook will congest your space.

Mix navy, white, orange, yellow, and earthly tones seamlessly to make your space more attractive.

Rely on natural light from the window to reflect and elevate the beauty of your nook through the colors.

Consider a window nook

To add glamour without including many decorations, build your breakfast nook by the window to maximize the unused window bay.

Consider bright colors indoors to manifest beauty when sunrays or natural light streams in.

The bright colors create a decorative atmosphere without overwhelming your small breakfast nook.

Consider wallpaper

Another way to make your small breakfast nook charming without taking up much space is to consider wallpaper with art that matches your flower vase.

For simple beauty, settle on a wallpaper that blends seamlessly with the color of your dining set, built-in bench, throw pillows, and pendant light fixture.

Keep it glossy

There is something beautiful about shiny surfaces because they require no décor to emanate glamour, hence saving on space.

Opt for a satin finish on the walls and a glossy white state-of-the-art square pedestal table to showcase beauty.

Consider matching the color of your rattan seats with your throw pillows and wall art for a cohesive look that makes the place neater.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can a corner bench maximize space in a small dining room apartment?

A corner bench is a fantastic space-saving solution for small dining rooms, especially in apartments.

By utilizing the corners, it opens up the central floor area, making the room feel more spacious.

Unlike chairs that need room to pull out, a bench stays tucked in and creates a streamlined look.

It can also double as storage if designed with hidden compartments underneath.

This multi-functionality is perfect for maximizing both seating and storage without sacrificing style.

2. What are some design tips for creating a cozy breakfast nook in a small space?

Choose a compact table that fits comfortably in the corner without overcrowding the space.

Soft cushions and throws on the bench can instantly make the nook feel more inviting and cozy.

Opt for light-colored fabrics and finishes to create an airy, open vibe.

Incorporating vertical elements like wall shelves or artwork adds character without taking up precious floor space.

A pendant light above the nook can create a focal point, adding warmth and ambiance.

3. What materials work best for a corner bench in a small dining room?

Wood is a popular material for its durability and timeless appeal, making it a great option for a cozy breakfast nook.

For a modern touch, consider upholstered benches with stain-resistant fabric for easy maintenance.

If storage is a priority, go for a bench with built-in drawers or lift-up seating, often made of sturdy wood or metal.

Lighter-colored materials can make the space feel more open, while darker tones bring in warmth and intimacy.

Mixing textures, like wood and fabric, can add depth and style to the nook without overwhelming the space.

4. Can a corner bench accommodate more seating compared to traditional chairs?

Yes, a corner bench can typically seat more people than individual chairs since it uses the full corner space efficiently.

Unlike chairs, which need room between them, a bench provides continuous seating, maximizing the area.

It’s especially useful when hosting guests, as you can fit more people on a bench than you could with separate chairs.

Additionally, benches are flexible—guests can slide along the seat, making it easier to accommodate everyone.

This makes it a smart choice for small spaces where seating capacity is a concern.

5. How do I style a breakfast nook with a corner bench to make it functional and aesthetic?

Balance functionality with style by incorporating storage solutions, like a bench with hidden compartments or nearby shelving.

Add cushions and pillows in patterns or colors that complement your overall decor to make the space comfortable and inviting.

Use a small centerpiece, such as a vase or plant, to avoid overcrowding the table while adding charm.

Consider wall decor, like artwork or mirrors, to enhance the room’s aesthetic without using floor space.

Finally, make sure the lighting above the nook complements the area—pendant lights or sconces work well for both ambiance and style.

If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Dining Room” board.