Many homes have a breakfast room that is used daily and a formal dining room that is used maybe twice a year.
Consider converting your breakfast room into a keeping room and using your dining room for all of your meals.
Keeping rooms were traditionally a family gathering room used to keep warm because it was near the stove.
Here are a few tips for turning your breakfast room into a cozy family oriented keeping room.
photo courtesy of kizilod2 flickr.com/photos/50767171@N03/4790412227/
Comfort
Your keeping room needs to be comfortable with durable furniture.
Do not put precious furniture or a table that requires a beverage coaster in your keeping room.
A keeping room is a hang out space where you should feel free to put your feet up on the coffee table or take a nap on the sofa.
It is a place to be yourself and not have to worry.
Feel free to incorporate a fireplace for added comfort and ambiance in your keeping room.
Desk
Consider putting a small desk or table in your keeping room so your children can do their homework near the kitchen while you prepare dinner.
The desk can also be used to store cookbooks.
This should not be a place for your everyday work office.
Storage
Make sure to have plenty of storage for your items in your keeping room to keep the space clutter-free.
Use concealed storage for less attractive items, but you can use some open storage for more attractive stuff that complements your overall color scheme.
Reading Materials
Add books, magazines, newspapers, and other reading materials to the space.
Make sure to add proper task lighting in addition to your overhead lighting.
A keeping room is a great place to read a newspaper and have coffee in the morning or relax with a good book and a glass of wine in the evening.
Ban the Television
A keeping room is not a place for a TV, unless it is used while cooking dinner.
It should be a family gathering area where people can converse with others preparing dinner or cleaning up after dinner.
A radio or other music source would be acceptable.
Relaxing Accessories
Since a keeping room is a comfortable family room, add appropriate accessories.
You can add candles, family photos, a blanket, lots of pillows, and other items that encourage you to get comfortable and be relaxed.
Adding in elements with a lot of texture make a keeping room feel cozy, such as wicker baskets, soft & fluffy throw blanket, and rough wood.
Don't forget to add comfortable items for any pets you have.
Decorate with Dishes
Feel free to store your dishes in your keeping room.
Pretty dishes will add to the charm and ambiance of the keeping room.
