Formal dining
Todays family’s are so busy that it is more common to grab a quick meal in the kitchen, rather than the traditional meal at the fancy dining table. Sit down dinners with family are important, but having a wonderful gathering area in the kitchen makes it easy and casual. I also love that kitchens are no longer closed off from the world, and are generally apart of large great rooms. Once considered a utilitarian eye sore, kitchens today are beautiful works of art, that people like to show off! Here are some of my favorite kitchens, with awesome gathering areas for friends and family.
1) The kitchen Island
The kitchen island
The island is the workhorse of every kitchen. It doubles as a prep area and dining space. Creates great counter surface, symmetry, and allows the cook to work and join in the conversation.
2) The farm table
The farm table
It’s no surprise that every farm in America had a table plopped into the middle of it. They are highly functional and worked over time feeding the family, and making bread. Today’s interpretation of the farm table is no exception. I would take eating at a table in the kitchen like this, any day!
3) The peninsula
The peninsula
Equally as hard working as the island, the peninsula is for the kitchen who just doesn’t have a lot of space. Despite the shortcomings in space, a peninsula is a great gathering spot for quick meals with family. Typically considered more casual than a gathering table, or island dining, it is ideal for meals on the go, and kitchen prep work.
4) The banquette
The kitchen banquette
The most formal of the group, the banquette is super stylish, fits great in small spaces, and can easily accommodate unexpected guests. What I also like about a banquette is it’s versatility. It can be a great place for coffee on a Sunday morning, or a place to cozy up with your spouse in the evening for a sip of wine, and a good meal.
If you could have any of the above kitchen styles which one would you choose?
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I’ve always loved the idea of a banquette, Amanda! Ever since I saw the one they have in the Ballard’s catalog, many years ago, I always liked the idea of one. Definitely something I will keep in mind when we downsize.
I am one that prefers a sit down meal. Anywhere. Some great tips Amamda.
Mr. Goodwill Hunting
If I didn’t have my giant breakfast room that is completely open and attached to my kitchen (one of the things I really love about my house), then I would pick the farm table. I once saw pictures of Debbie Travis’s house in Canada that was set up that way. I loved it.
So hard to decide! I want both a formal dinning room and eat-in kitchen. I’m selfish like that. I love the stylish banquette but if I really had to choose I’d go for the farmhouse table as an island.
Happy Friday!
abby
These all look lovely…I cannot create such spaces I am afraid but my cats have created their spaces. Have a lovely weekend Amanda! xx
I love them all….but I really would love a little banquette. I’m all about cozy spaces!
xo Elizabeth
We are, right now, in the process of “doing” the eating space off our new kitchen. … somehow banquettes just don’t appeal. I always find them hard to get in and out of! You stick to them, or you have to push the table away kind of thing. I love the idea, but no, they just don’t work for me. We presently have a round table that came from France; love it, but it only seats 4 comfortably and of course, you can’t extend it. Pretty sure we’re going to have a sideboard built in on one side…Well, stay tuned to see the developments!
I am one that loves a cozy banqette, even though I don’ have one in my home yet.
These are all lovely, especially the banquette!
I choose the farm table. Without hesitation. I love long meetings with family and friends in a very large kitchen …
Saludos!!
I’m ashamed to say that I most often eat my meals on my sofa in front of the TV. TERRIBLE, I know, but when I have guests over, I prepare a nice table. I love the conversation that ensues around a table of full of good food. 🙂