Many of us would love to have a breakfast table in our kitchens; however, it can be a problem when space is at a premium. Not only do you have to consider the size of the table, you have to leave enough space for chairs to be pulled and each person to sit down comfortably. Once pulled out, chairs also have to remain out of the way of traffic.
One good option is to use a banquette. Bench seating eliminates the need for clearance and allows the table to be kept closer to the wall, or perhaps the back of an island. This option is particularly effective if the kitchen opens out into an adjoining family room.
Alternately, a pull-out table can be nestled into an island. It’s important to remember to leave enough clearance to pull out the table sufficiently to accommodate all family members.
Using part of the island or peninsula itself as a table is another efficient idea. Multi-level peninsulas are excellent for creating extra working space, and adding a level at table height will remove the need to fit in an additional table altogether.
There are many beautiful and extremely hard-wearing materials available for counter and/or table tops. Quarella worktops, for example, come in a multitude of finishes and colours, as well as being available in varying thicknesses. The same applies to Caesarstone worktops.
Silestone worktops are equally versatile and also available in a wide range of colours and finishes.
Both easy to clean and enduring, these composite stone worktops make the perfect area for family dining, while also providing a surface that’s resilient enough to withstand a toddler playing or teenagers dealing with craft projects.
Here too, seating can be provided in the shape of a bench or, if space is at a premium, fold-away stools.
When not in use, these could be kept on brackets at the side of the island. Alternatively, chairs can be kept tucked under the table area until needed, although this will again require a certain amount of space being allowed for clearance.
