See a Pretty and Practical Kitchen Nook Makeover
Dark finishes and drab walls got the switcheroo, making way for springtime-fresh colors and kid-friendly touches
Geometric wallpaper, hints of natural materials and thoughtful personal touches completely revamped this nook in a San Francisco Bay Area kitchen. Interior designer Cristin Priest was tired of the dark space that sat just around the corner from her kitchen, and wanted to inject it with color and a sense of comfort. A fun new palette and practical additions make this the perfect hangout space for her and her children.
The 6- by 6 1/2-foot nook now has a fresh new feel. A mix of cheerful green and warm natural tones creates an inviting space.
BEFORE: Built in 1940, Priest's home had the evidence of its era. The nook was originally outfitted simply with wooden benches and a Formica table (which had already been replaced when this photo was taken). "It was charming, but it needed a little facelift," she says.
The kelly green and white Thomas Paul pillow in the corner inspired the new color palette.
The kelly green and white Thomas Paul pillow in the corner inspired the new color palette.
AFTER: Patent leather cushions look luxe but are easy to wipe clean. Priest chose something practical and durable for her kids but loves how the cushions add a shot of shine.
Priest had been admiring the Trellis Manuel Canovas wallpaper for some time and thought it could be applied easily and affordably in this small nook.
Priest had been admiring the Trellis Manuel Canovas wallpaper for some time and thought it could be applied easily and affordably in this small nook.
Artwork from her children and her grandmother adds a special touch. "I love the way it [the nook] feels," says Priest. "It's inviting, personal and full of life."
Here's the inspiration pillow in its new setting. The camellia tree just outside brings a dash of the outdoors into the nook. The butcher block tabletop, bamboo blind and warm orange inside the Arteriors pendant seem to play off the natural outdoor hues. White Pottery Barn Kids frames hold artwork from Priest's children.
Priest had custom pullout drawers built into the existing benches to help maximize space and storage. The new butcher block tabletop mimics the shape of the table's original Formica top.