Make your meal time way more intimate and inviting with the best eat-in kitchen setup. An eat-in kitchen allows you and your family or friends to kick back with a meal in an open living space without having to leave the comfort of home.
With everything from adding a rug or painting your cabinets a new color, to bigger projects like installing a breakfast bar or creating an eye-catching custom wine rack, we’ve got something perfect for every home improvement project.
Give your kitchen a much-needed upgrade with these easy turnovers and watch how fast the room goes from plain to polished. It won’t take much effort, but will make a huge difference in the end result.
So get ready to transform your kitchen into the perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying meals with family and friends.
Table of Contents
1. Add a Kitchen Island
Adding a kitchen island can be a great way of creating an upgraded look for your kitchen. With the added counter space and customizable cabinets, you will have much more room to prep and store items.
Bringing in an island also creates a central gathering spot in the kitchen for sharing meals or enjoying an after-dinner drink. An island can come with seating options such as stools or small chairs, allowing family members to gather around in comfort.
2. Install a Pot Rack
A pot rack is a great way to save space and keep your cookware in easy reach while giving your kitchen an upgrade in style. Plus, with the addition of a few hooks, you can hang additional items like cooking utensils, dishtowels, or even small planters to give the area a more decorative touch.
Whatever look you’re going for, from rustic chic to modern minimalism, there are plenty of pot racks on the market that fit any home needs.
3. Hang Some Curtains
Hanging curtains is an easy and inexpensive way to add color and pattern to your eat-in kitchen. Curtains can also help to soften the look of a kitchen and make it feel more cozy. Choose curtains that are made from light-weight fabrics so they won’t be too heavy or bulky when drawn closed.
4. Add a Patterned Rug
Adding a rug to your eat-in kitchen can help to define the space and make it feel more cozy. Choose a rug that is made from durable materials like wool or nylon, as these materials will stand up to heavy foot traffic.
If you have young children, you may want to choose a rug with a stain-resistant finish.
5. Install Shelves
Shelves are a great way to add storage space to your eat-in kitchen without taking up too much floor space. You can use shelves to store cookbooks, dishes, or other items that you need quick access to.
Floating shelves are especially popular in eat-in kitchens as they provide an airy look.
6. Paint the Walls
Giving the walls in your eat-in kitchen a fresh coat of paint is an easy way to transform the space without spending too much money.
When choosing paint colors, opt for light and airy hues like white, cream, or pale blue. These colors will help to make your eat-in kitchen feel more spacious and inviting.
7. Best Eat in Kitchen Ideas: Modern Style
When you go for the modern look, all you need is to focus on sleek accents and minimal color schemes. One thing that is trending right now is having all white furniture with black countertops- this helps to create a sense of harmony since you’re not overcomplicating things with too many different textures.
To mix it up, use practically-styled art pieces or wall decoration as a way to bring in some unique energy into the room. Lastly, don’t forget about bringing in natural elements such as plenty of green plants or herbs so that it feels inviting and cozy while still staying modern.
8. Get Some Colorful Hint
Adding small bursts of color to the kitchen table or around appliances can create inviting and attractive focal points for the room. If you want to go all out and amp up the vibrancy, paint an entire wall with fresh pops of color to really make your eat-in kitchen shine.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to limit yourself to just one hue either; you could always try two different colors or mix together hues that complement each other nicely. Just remember, when deciding on a colorful palette for your eat-in kitchen be sure to keep it cohesive and balanced throughout the space.
9. Hang some beautiful Artwork
Attaching artwork to your kitchen walls can help you create a modern, stylish look that truly stands out. Whether it be abstract, contemporary or classic art pieces, there are endless possibilities when it comes to hanging artwork in your kitchen.
Get creative and pick art that reflects your personality and adds character to the space; it’s a great way to make sure that everyone who steps inside will feel welcome and inspired at the same time.
With just the right pieces of artwork hung around the kitchen area, you can add a new dimension of color and ambiance which is sure to transform any humble kitchen into something quite extraordinary
10. Make Use of Natural Light by Adding Windows or Skylights
When it comes to eating in the kitchen, a great way to maximize your experience is by adding windows or skylights to take advantage of natural lighting.
On sunny days, it can be incredibly uplifting to enjoy your meal while streaming sunshine pours into the room and floods it with brightness. Plus, the more light that enters your kitchen the more visually pleasing and spacious it’ll appear.
11. Use Soft Fabrics and Colors to Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen with soft fabrics and colors will give you an inviting space to cook or have a snack.
Choose pastel or muted tones for your walls and counters, then rely on pillows, placemats, and table runners to add an extra touch of warmth.
12. Add a Breakfast Nook for Morning Meals or Quick Snacks
Breakfast nooks are a great way to add a little something special to the kitchen. Comfortable, cozy, and with just enough space for the morning meal, breakfast nooks can provide a quick meal spot in the heart of your kitchen.
Plus, they are perfect for when you need to grab a snack on the go before heading out the door. With so many options to choose from – different colors, materials, and seating styles – you’ll be able to find one that matches your particular style and taste.
13. Install Some Decorative Lighting Fixtures
These magical fixtures have the power to transform any ordinary kitchen into a welcoming space that reflects your unique style. With the latest advancements in modern bulbs, you can create a soothing ambiance that enhances the mood and makes your kitchen feel like a cozy haven.
Let your kitchen glow with the perfect lighting fixtures that illuminate your culinary adventures and inspire your creativity.
Whether you enjoy warm brass hues or prefer bright whites, it’s easy adding some shimmer and softness with decorative lighting fixtures. You’ll be surprised by what a difference they make in the overall look and feel of your kitchen.
14. Add Kitchen Stools that Can be Tucked Away When Not in Use
Kitchen stools are great for guests to sit on when visiting, and many have the added advantage of being able to be tucked away when not in use. That way, you can still enjoy the benefit of comfortable seating but maximize precious space within your kitchen.
Besides providing comfortable seating, kitchen stools also add a modern aesthetic that complements a variety of styles and color schemes.
15. Utilize Hidden Storage Solutions to Maximize Counter Space
Adding hidden storage solutions to your kitchen is a great way to maximize counter space and make the most of your room. Instead of letting the things you need take up that precious real estate, find unique places to store them instead.
Invest in drawer organizers and under-cabinet shelves so you can keep dishes, utensils, spices, and other cooking items neatly tucked away.
If you have open wall space, it’s also a good idea to install hanging racks for pots and pans or even as additional pantry storage.
16. Install an Outdoor Kitchen Area for Al Fresco Dining
Enjoy the perfect summer evening by cooking up a storm in your outdoor kitchen and hosting a dazzling al fresco dining experience.
Not only will you get to enjoy the fresh air while cooking, but you’ll also create a unique atmosphere that friends and family just won’t forget!
To make it extra special, add a barbeque, pizza oven or smoker.
17. Place a Few Potted Plants to Bring Some Life Into the Space
Planting some fresh herbs or flowers can give your kitchen a cheerful and energizing feel, brightening the mood of whoever enters. Plants also help to cleanse and purify the air around you, making it healthier for you to breathe.
Plus, adding fresh greenery offers a calming presence which can be just the thing you need in a hectic kitchen. Bring some extra freshness into the mix with potted plants that will become a beautiful part of your very own eat-in kitchen experience.
18. Utilize Multipurpose Furniture Pieces
With the right strategies, even small kitchens can become cozy, efficient spaces. One of the best eat-in kitchen ideas is to utilize multipurpose furniture pieces like an ottoman or island with stools.
This type of furniture serves two functions as it offers extra seating as well as additional storage. Plus, they are easy to maintain since they only require minimal cleaning and upkeep.
19. Install a Chalkboard Wall for Displaying Recipes or Writing Notes
Installing a chalkboard wall in your kitchen is a fantastic way to bring some organization into your home cooking routine.
Not only will having your recipes written up on a larger-than-life size make them easier to read, but it also presents an opportunity for you to dress up the atmosphere of your kitchen.
You can choose to write laundry lists, funny messages, or even the ingredients of whatever meal you happened to prepare that day.
20. Add Windows and Doors with Glass Panes
Natural light is a huge factor in creating the bright, airy feel you want in a kitchen, so installing these features is essential if you want to upgrade your space.
However, there are several advantages beyond just bringing in more natural light: glass panes also add charm and character to the room, as well as giving you a sense of openness that might otherwise be missing from a cloistered kitchen. Plus, it can provide stunning views from indoors which will give your space an extra touch.
21. Built-in Banquette Seating Area to Accommodate More Guests
Built-in banquette seating can be a great addition to your kitchen and make entertaining so much easier. Not only can you come up with creative ways to make the corner look attractive with various decorative elements, but the extra seating capacity provides the perfect spot for friends and family members to gather around and spend quality time together.
Other than that, by installing storage underneath the seating, you can stash all of your necessary items like kitchen towels, cookbooks, and more out of sight.
22. Incorporate a Kitchen Island with Storage Space Underneath
With a kitchen island, all the items that you need in your kitchen, such as utensils, cooking supplies, and ingredients, can have their own spot – easing the hassle of rummaging through drawers and cupboards just to find something you need. Also, when it comes to kitchen islands, there’s always the option of having storage underneath so that nothing goes to waste.
Your tableware, cookbooks, kitchen gadgets; they all don’t need to be cluttering up your countertop or cabinet tops anymore.
23. Put Together a Wall of Shelves for Displaying Cookbooks, Decorative Items and More
Shelving can be used for displaying appliances and cookbooks, freeing up precious counter space, as well as for storing decorative items that stand out on their own. With the creative freedom to choose the style and size of your shelving system, there’s no limit to what you can do.
From installing floating shelves of different depths and lengths to stacking wall shelving with unique baskets, boxes and LED strip lights that’ll give your kitchen plenty of personality.
24. Install a Pot Rack to Help Organize Your Cookware and Create More Counter Space
The installation will help you to keep all of the cookware organized, freeing up space on the counter and in cabinets, but having them out on display can add some style and character to your kitchen.
Hang them high so they’re not getting in the way. Installing it over the kitchen island and along with the light installation is a smart way that won’t make the hanging pot rack look boring.
25. Hang Up Some Framed Photos or Artwork That Adds a Personal Touch to the Space
Inject a personal touch to the kitchen by hanging up some photos or artwork to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for everyone who visits. Incorporating framed photos or artwork is a simple yet powerful way to give the area that homey touch.
Whether it’s an inexpensive art print or a cherished family photo, these visual elements will instantly create a comforting and inviting atmosphere. Even further, they can help to inspire meaningful conversation and stimulate conversation while you eat.
26. Install Floating Shelves on the Walls for Extra Pantry Storage
Install some floating shelves on the walls and store all of your spices, oils, baking ingredients and canned goods in a neat and organized fashion.
Floating shelves allow homeowners to highlight their favorite decorative pieces, like antiques or family heirlooms, as well as keep items that are used often within reach.
All in all, installing floating shelves on the walls makes a great option for anyone looking for an easy and stylish way to expand their kitchen storage.
27. Utilize a mirror to reflect light and make the room look larger
If you want to make a simple yet very effective upgrade, transform your kitchen into a stylish and inviting space by utilizing mirrors to reflect light.
Mirrors are an excellent choice for the kitchen as they can instantly double the brightness and size of any room by reflecting natural light, making it look and feel more spacious.
28. Put Together an Accent Wall in Vibrant Colors or Fun Patterns
A great way to spruce up the interior of your kitchen is to add an accent wall in vibrant colors or fun patterns. Doing this will totally change the dynamic of your kitchen, giving it a modern and stylish flare.
Not only will an accent wall bring vibrancy and character to the space, but it’s also a super easy DIY project that can be completed over the weekend.
29. Hang Some Bright Curtains
Bright curtains add a pop of color to the kitchen and can instantly give your space a cheerful and inviting feeling. If you’re looking for a way to modernize the room, adding curtains is an affordable hack that will do the trick faster than any costly remodel.
Choose a pattern or texture that complements the rest of your decor, and opt for a light blocking style if you want to avoid disruption from streetlights during early morning breakfasts.
With bright curtains, fewer dirt particles build up in the room due to their protective layer, which lengthens its lifespan as well as keeps it looking clean year-round.
30. Invest in a Quality Kitchen Table and Chairs for Dining and Gathering
A kitchen table and chairs aren’t just functional pieces; they’re the foundation of countless memories waiting to be made. Whether you’re savoring a home-cooked meal or hosting a lively get-together with friends, a quality set of furniture will create an inviting ambiance that will leave everyone feeling at ease.
Besides making a visual impact, hanging curtains in the kitchen can also be practical; hearing noise from the street becomes a thing of the past and the kitchen is automatically cozier.
Investing in quality furniture will ensure that your space looks inviting, polished, and feels cozy. Besides, when you choose the right style, you can easily change up the decor on the table to refresh its look regularly.