Small Kitchen, Big Ideas: Creating a Cozy, Organized Breakfast Bar

When we moved into our new apartment, I knew our small kitchen was going to be a challenge. We desperately needed more counter and storage space. So we decided to transform our little galley kitchen into a beautiful space that boasts a stylish and functional breakfast bar. Are you tired of juggling limited counter space while preparing your morning coffee or tea? I have some excellent tips and suggestions to help you create a tidy, organized, and aesthetically pleasing breakfast bar that will become the heart of your morning routine in the kitchen.

1. Choosing the Perfect Breakfast Bar:

The key to a successful breakfast bar in a small kitchen is selecting the right furniture. Opt for a slim and compact bar table or a wall-mounted drop-leaf table that can be folded away when not in use.

Furniture Suggestions:

• Wall-Mounted Drop-Leaf Table: Check out the NORBERG Wall-mounted Drop-leaf Table from IKEA. It's a versatile solution that can be folded down to save space or opened up to accommodate seating.

• Free standing cabinet: For more of a breakfast buffet style space, we chose the Brietta 2 Accent Cabinet from Wayfair. It was pretty simple to put together and matched the look we were going for. The two drawers and storage below is a big bonus.

• Compact Bar Table: If you're going for a sit down space, consider a bar height table or wall mounted bar option, similar to a wall mounted, drop leaf table. These stylish options can accommodate a couple of stools and can be set up to fit perfectly into a more compact space no.

2. Functional and Stylish Shelving Options:

Incorporate open shelving above or near your breakfast bar to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible. It also adds a touch of charm to the space. We have a pretty tea and mug collection that look beautiful displayed on our shelves.

Shelving Ideas:

• Floating Shelves: Invest in rustic or modern floating shelves from Wayfair.ca. They offer a wide selection to complement any kitchen style. We chose the Russo 2 Solid Pine shelves in a walnut finish to match the top of our cabinet.

• Kitchen Pegboard: Opt for a kitchen pegboard from The Home Depot Canada, which allows you to customize the storage by attaching hooks and shelves.

3. Essential Appliances for a Well-Equipped Breakfast Bar:

Equip your breakfast bar with the essential appliances to make your morning routine a breeze.

Appliance Recommendations:

• Coffee Maker: The compact Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker is perfect for small spaces. It delivers a delicious cup of coffee in minutes. This is the one we have on our bar.

• Toaster: Consider the Haden 4 slot toaster available on Canadian Tire. It's versatile enough for toasting bread or bagels and has a handy defrost feature. I also personally love the retro look of this model.

4. Organizing Breakfast Bar Essentials:

To keep your breakfast bar tidy and aesthetically pleasing, invest in storage containers for coffee, tea, jam, and fresh fruit.

Storage Solutions:

• Coffee and Tea Canisters: Look for stylish canisters at Crate & Barrel (www.crateandbarrel.ca) to keep your coffee and tea fresh. We collect cannisters for the amazing teas from Granville Island Tea Company. We also love David's Teas (Buddha's Blend is a favourite) and their pretty cannisters.

• Jam Jars: Mason jars are perfect for storing homemade or store-bought jams. Find them at Walmart Canada (www.walmart.ca).

• Fruit Bowl: I love our colourful, patterned bowl from Torre & Tagus. We use one for fresh fruit on our bar, and it keeps our fresh fruits within reach while adding a decorative touch. It's always nice to have a healthy choice available.
  

5. Incorporate Greenery:

Add a touch of freshness and color to your breakfast bar with small potted herbs or a mini indoor plant.

Greenery Options:

• Potted Herbs: Choose kitchen essentials like basil, mint, or rosemary and keep them in small pots on your breakfast bar.

• Indoor Plant: Consider a low-maintenance indoor plant like a snake plant or pothos to add a lively touch.

6. Lighting Matters:

Good lighting is essential for a cozy breakfast bar. Choose warm and inviting lighting fixtures to create a comfortable ambiance.

Lighting Recommendations:

• Pendant Lights: Hang pendant lights above the breakfast bar. The MELBOURNE Pendant Light from Wayfair.ca offers a sleek and modern design.

• Under-Cabinet Lighting: Consider installing under-cabinet LED lights to provide additional illumination for your workspace.

7. Personalize with Décor:

Finally, add personal touches to make your breakfast bar a reflection of your style and taste.

Décor Ideas:

• Artwork: Hang a small art piece or a decorative sign with a coffee or tea theme on the wall above your breakfast bar.

• Cozy Cushions: If you've got the space and opted for a sit down bar, add cushions to the bar stools for extra comfort and a pop of color.

With a little creativity and the right furniture, appliances, and storage options, you can transform your small kitchen with a delightful breakfast bar. Embrace the space you have with a little organization and decorative touches, you'll soon find that making coffee or tea, a little toast with jam or enjoying fresh fruit in this cozy space becomes your favorite part of the morning routine.