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Designing a Cozy and Chic Breakfast Room

The more casual alternative to a dining room is all about being comfortable

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Natural light and unique fixtures create an inviting breakfast/ bar room designed by Kobi Karp.

Kobi Karp Architecture Interior Design
Natural light and unique fixtures create an inviting breakfast/ bar room designed by Kobi Karp.
Kobi Karp Architecture Interior Design

Each week Mansion Global tackles an interior design topic with an elite group of designers from around the world who work on luxury properties. This week we look at how to design a chic and cozy breakfast room.

Having a breakfast room, or rather a casual place to dine in your home (that isn’t the dining room) can be a relaxing way to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

"For me, a breakfast room is ideal as you don’t always want to eat in a formal dining room or necessarily in the kitchen," said Karen Howes, CEO and founder of London-based Taylor Howes.

"It’s a great place for the family to meet up and catch up over a meal, whether it is breakfast, lunch, or a relaxed supper," Ms. Howes said.

More:Designing a Tasteful—and Fun—At-Home Bar

Choose the Right Pieces

"If the space is right, I think a circular table is more relaxed and better, whether it is two or six of you sitting down to eat—it’s easier for everyone to join in the conversation. It needs to be a relaxed style, so ideally a soft timber with comfortable chairs.

"It is always great if you can fit a chandelier in over the dining table—again not too formal, it could even be quite contemporary and fun.

"If there is room to fit in a couple of armchairs as well, you can then sit and read the papers while having coffee. Also, a bookcase where you can keep books, framed photos of the family and other objects helps to make the space more inviting and softer than a kitchen. It then distinguishes it from the other rooms, too. 

"You can be brave with color here as it should be a relaxed, fun space filled with a lot of light and energy."

A high-top table sets a casual tone in this light-filled space designed by Karen Howes.

Taylor Howes

—Karen Howes, CEO and founder of London-based Taylor Howes

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Plan out the Space

"I love a round dining table because it feels so intimate and everyone can engage with each other. I suggest sculptural table bases to keep the design exciting, but durable/wipeable surfaces for easy maintenance, like glass or stone.

"For lighting, it’s best to keep your fixtures architectural with wall or ceiling accents. Too many accent pieces can make a small space feel cluttered.

"Generally, you need a great table, comfortable chairs, and something exciting to keep the space from feeling too utilitarian."

Designed by Bennett Leifer for One Hundred Barclay Street in New York City, this breakfast space comes to life thanks to a scenic accent wall.

Aaron Bengochea

—Bennett Leifer of Bennett Leifer Interiors in New York City

More:Click to read more news and stories about luxury home design

Keep it Comfortable

"Comfortable light chairs and a table that is warm and inviting—all of which can accommodate everything from leisurely coffee sipping and elaborate breakfasts to a grab-and-go meal—are key. Natural materials can help create an inviting ambience–one that’s ideal for catching up on the night’s emails, family conversation, reading the newspaper, or finishing up school work. Look for a table that’s casual and comfortable–yet elegant in design for larger gatherings. Curved, soft edges accomplish this feel.

 "Lighting should be natural. Windows and glass are critical for the breakfast area. The first light coming into the space sets the mood, while the breakfast is the stage-setter for the day.  

"Focus on natural materials coupled with a feel of quiet comfort and a look that blends with the outside environment."

— Kobi Karp, founder and principal Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design in Miami