Reader Space: A Simplified Kitchen Nook

My heart goes pitter patter about integrating design with organizing and storage.  And that is what my friend, Cristin, does on a daily basis over at Simplified Bee.

Cristin wrote:

"My favorite space in our home is one of the smallest; It's our petite kitchen nook.  Just off our kitchen, it's an area my kids use to study, draw and eat snacks.  I've been drooling over the fresh green and white Trellis wallpaper {by Manual Canovas} for some time and it was my starting point.

To stand-up to my kids, I had the bench cushions made in solid Kelly green patent leather - it's topped with a crisp Bali pillow by Thomas Paul.  The light pendant by Arteriors has a sunny yellow interior that pulls from the sunflower oil painting by my Grandmother, which hangs in the space.  A grouping of framed art that my kids created is also proudly hung in the space and can easily be swapped out to feature their latest masterpiece.

To add texture, but no compete with the heavy patterned wallpaper, I selected a simple tortoise bamboo roman shade.  To maximize the space, I also hung a chalkboard that displays my kid's art, party invitations and school papers.

The bench and butcher-block table were custom built.  I love the pullout drawers because they provide so much storage.

To corral the kids' art supplies they use frequently, I painted a wooden tray and lined it with the Trellis wallpaper."

• It's simple.  Nothing here is overdone. 
• She did a beautiful job combining pattern and texture to create a space that feels clean, cozy and lovely!
• The built in bench is one of my favorite moments in the space.  It adds soft durable seating for the kids, and concealed storage for mom.  Win win!
• Seriously, how cute is that little tray?  I am gaga over it!  Everything a little one needs to be crafty at any moment.
• The chalkboard is another star in the space.  It is always a great idea to have a common zone for important reminders, dates and schoolwork.  And I adore that she tossed some artwork on there to keep it fun!
• The nook is a space with meaning.  It houses art from Cristin's Grandmother and also art created by her kiddos!  I am sure it brings a smile to her face daily!

A giant hug to Cristin for stopping by today to share her incredibly simple, well thought out, gorgeous kitchen nook!  I am in love.  And you can always see more awesomely organized and beautifully designed spaces over on her blog, Simplified Bee.

What's your favorite "nook" in your home?  Anyone else invested in some built in storage that you are super smitten with?

Photo credit: Jacobson | http://www.jenjphoto.com/