Let’s eat in

I don’t know about you but I’ve always found something really cosy about the idea of an eat-in breakfast nook in the corner of a kitchen. There’s something charming and almost old-fashioned about it – maybe because it reminds me of the Cunningham’s kitchen diner in Happy Days, or the Keaton’s in Family Ties, or something equally nostalgic.

One of the reasons it feels so retro is that most contemporary homes are designed with open-plan kitchen/dining/living spaces these days, offering plenty of room for a generously sized dining table, plus a spacious kitchen island which can double as a breakfast bar.

But what about those who live in apartments, townhouses and older homes with smaller, separate kitchens and barely enough bench space to fit a toaster? This is exactly who Pottery Barn had in mind when developing its brand new furniture collection.

Packed with clever solutions for every sized space, the Small Spaces collection is a scaled-down version of Pottery Barn’s usual relaxed style, comfort and timeless quality – and at great value, too.

Pottery Barn’s new dining range was a particular highlight for me, proving you can have the eat-in kitchen of your (TV show) dreams no matter what size home you live in. From a tiny Parisian-style bistro table just big enough for two to share a baguette and café au lait, to a gateleg dining table with folding extension leaves and central storage shelves which can attractively house anything from linens to tableware.

And if it’s cabinetry and storage space that’s lacking in your kitchen, the Pottery Barn designers have that solution sorted in the most stylish way too. The Kitchen Rail System frees up drawers and benchtops by capitalising on empty walls to house those bulky space hogs like knife blocks and iPad holders.

But if making holes in your walls isn’t an option, then the simplest solution is one of the several smart rolling storage carts in this collection, such as the Castelo Kitchen Unit with its industrial good looks and removable tray shelves. Store the coffee pot, mugs and cookie jar on one shelf and you only need to carry the whole tray over to the table or lounge come tea time. So clever!

See more of Pottery Barn’s new Small Spaces collection, including sleeper sofas and go-anywhere wardrobes here.

Happy shopping. ♥ KC.

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