What can I do with this awkward space?
Crystal McGann
9 days ago
last modified: 9 days ago
Featured Answer
Sort by:Oldest
Comments (13)
Crystal McGann
9 days agoRelated Discussions
what to do with this awkward space?
Comments (13)Wow, thanks for all of these great ideas. Yes, the width of the space is 34 1/2", it looks smaller in the photos I know... Unfortunately the idea of window treatments or frosting won't really work because we have four of these interior windows in the house (they look out from the bedroom/home office onto a long, wide hallway which used to be a front porch) - and whatever you do to one you'd have to do to all four, and I don't want to obstruct them in any way since they are the source of light for the whole house... BUT I think bookshelves are lovely, especially filled with books and other decorative elements, so I wouldn't mind seeing them through the window. Also the window seat idea would be great. It's really too confined of a space to put a reading chair in there, but a built-in window seat would feel cozy I think. I guess I didn't really think about the fact that you can get 10 inch deep bookshelves (or certainly do built-ins that depth) - that seems to make sense though. Thanks!...See MoreWhat can I do with this awkward space?
Comments (23)cost of a new counter is about 80/square ft installed. Anything you do will be some new counters. 40-50 square feet in total, but you might be able to get away without replacing the entire countertop depending on where the seams are and the sizes of the pieces you have. Turn the peninsula 90 degrees and place it touching the empty side wall, 41-42 inches away from the countertop against the back wall and long side facing towards the living room. You would have to repair your floor where the downdraft, gas and electric come in through the slab. Looks like there is no downdraft? Maybe gas and electric come through the exterior wall instead of the slab. Remove the big window, close up that part of the wall, Install a venthood, electric, and gas from the exterior and reuse the existing cooktop. you might be able to rescue the counter above the peninsula by installing butcher block or something where the stove cutout was. If you are lucky you might be able to move the counter on the peninsula to the right side of the back wall. Eat your meals in the dining room This will be more than 5K (maybe less than 10k?) You would have a good work zone, a peninsula facing the living room that people can eat at and be served from close to the stove....See MoreWhat to do with awkward space above refrigerator?
Comments (19)First off thanks everyone for the ideas! What do you guys think if I extended the backsplash up the wall above the fridge to the top of the cabinet. Add 3 12" deep light wood shelves (depth of existing cab). One high the same as the top of cabinet ( would allow me to continue the decorative items across the top of the cabinets) Middle and low. Take the matching color 3" x 42" leftover piece of wood and slice it into 3 lengthwise. Tack that on to the edge of the 3 shelves so it's colored match to the cabinets. So I'd be left with basically 2 shelves, edge matched with backsplash behind. The top shelf would continue the even line with the cabinets and allow for spreading out the decorations. Maybe add matching under cab lighting to the 2 open shelves with the backsplash....See MoreHow do I decorate this awkward space?
Comments (3)I would remove the cabinet and not put another in its place (maybe a tall plant instead); different artwork to coordinate with the dining space; and, agree that a bench would look great in front of the windows and it will be functional, too. A rug under the table (with coordinating runner in front of the bench) and roman blinds in the eating nook would tie the whole space together well......See Morecat_ky
8 days agolast modified: 8 days ago
Related Stories

HOME OFFICESRoom of the Day: Home Office Makes the Most of Awkward Dimensions
Smart built-ins, natural light, strong color contrast and personal touches create a functional and stylish workspace
Full Story
ROOM OF THE DAYRoom of the Day: Great Room Solves an Awkward Interior
The walls come down in a chopped-up Eichler interior, and a family gains space and light
Full Story
THE HARDWORKING HOMEFrom Awkward Corner to Multipurpose Lounge
The Hardworking Home: See how an empty corner becomes home to a library, an LP collection, a seating area and a beloved string bass
Full Story
ATTICS14 Tips for Decorating an Attic — Awkward Spots and All
Turn design challenges into opportunities with our decorating ideas for attics with steep slopes, dim light and more
Full Story
ATTICSRoom of the Day: Awkward Attic Becomes a Happy Nest
In this master bedroom, odd angles and low ceilings go from challenge to advantage
Full Story
WINDOWSAwkward Windows and Doors? We've Got You Covered
Arched windows, French doors and sidelights get their due with treatments that keep their beauty out in the open
Full Story
DECORATING GUIDESAsk an Expert: What to Do With an Awkward Nook
Discover how to decorate and furnish rooms with oddly shaped corners and tricky roof angles
Full Story
MORE ROOMSIdeas for Awkward Living Room Areas
This year, think beyond the couch to add interest and utility to the living room
Full Story
KITCHEN OF THE WEEKKitchen of the Week: An Awkward Layout Makes Way for Modern Living
An improved plan and a fresh new look update this family kitchen for daily life and entertaining
Full Story
DECORATING GUIDESHow to Work With Awkward Windows
Use smart furniture placement and window coverings to balance that problem pane, and no one will be the wiser
Full Story
artistsharonva