Envisioning my perfect abode, I might conjure up images of a verdant backyard garden, a cutting-edge home theater, or quaint antiques. My vision includes a kitchen bathed in sunlight and a snug spot for enjoying morning coffee. Yet, as someone living in an apartment without space for a dining table, I thought such a dream was unattainable. That was until recently, when I was proven wrong.
You don’t require an expansive kitchen to relish a cozy breakfast nook; it turns out that smart storage solutions are what make this little retreat possible. For me, these were found in the Lillian Fluted Bookcase and Lillian Channel Tufted Bench from the Better Homes & Gardens collection at Walmart.
Prior to revamping my kitchen, I had no designated spot for a microwave, countertops cluttered with coffee paraphernalia, and an island that came with the apartment that I disliked every time I laid eyes on it. My aim was to find a fix.
Most breakfast nooks are centered around banquette seating, so I began there. But I didn’t just want an area to sit; I saw this as a chance to incorporate storage. When I stumbled upon the Lillian Bench, I knew it was the perfect choice. Its velvet texture provides a cozy spot for lounging, and the olive hue complements the organic, mid-century modern style I’m aiming for.
The most difficult aspect of this project was finding a way to stash the microwave that wasn’t an eyesore. After wasting hours on unimpressive cabinets and rolling carts, I had to get creative—and that’s when the idea of using a bookshelf came to mind.
Although there was a risk it might look out of place (and was honestly odd), I decided to give it a shot. Thankfully, it worked out. The microwave sits seamlessly on the lower shelf, my knick-knacks now have a home, and I’m still discovering the ample storage space in the bottom compartment. But what I cherish most is the textured look of the ribbed door design.
As for assembly, the bench was a breeze, coming ready to use. The bookshelf required a bit more work, with many pieces and my partner’s own toolkit to the rescue. Be mindful that the doors might be bent during shipping; if so, you’ll need to adjust the hinges with a screwdriver.
To complete the breakfast nook’s aesthetic, I added a delicate marble and brass side table (to accommodate the breakfast aspect) and a framed print overhead. A whimsical cinnamon roll-themed candle brought everything together.
These additions, large and small, transformed my kitchen and turned a previously unwelcoming area into a space I now look forward to visiting every day. The lesson learned: bookcases can enhance any room. You can find these pieces (and explore the Lillian collection) on Walmart’s website.
