Banquettes

I have been noticing lots of banquettes as of late.  They can be a solution for small spaces or even a focal point (when done correctly).  I like to think about banquettes as a chameleon because of their ability to take on any number of styles.

The other thing that really makes banquettes a smart option are the new "food resistant" fabrics.  No, I am not talking about your grandmother's laminated table cloth.  I'm talking velvets, linens and silk that are amazing to the touch, but completely dirt proof.

Here are some options to get you thinking about a banquette in your own space!

This photograph is from Dana Wolter Interiors here in Birmingham, Alabama.  Dana does really beautiful spaces.  This is one of my favorites.  I love how she has created an eating area that can take you from a lazy Sunday morning breakfast all the way to an evening dinner with friends in a single space.  

This is another great example of how a banquette creates a "tucked away" eating area in a small kitchen. In this case, it is fresh and modern with light fabrics.  

http://www.massuccowarnermiller.com/residential/sun-valley-residence.php

This one has a real minimalist feel to it.  But for some reason, I am drawn to the look.

http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=21118&index=1&currentPage=20&searchQuery=occassional%20chairs&searchType=photos

Another great modern look using the classic tulip table.

http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=26005&index=3&currentPage=20&searchQuery=occassional%20chairs&searchType=photos

Yet another great Birmingham design firm, Tracery Interiors - we are surrounded by talent here in Birmingham! I love how the banquette is tucked into the corner.  The traditional English country style of the space is so yummy!  Also, if you are lucky enough to live here in Birmingham, Tracery is opening a store in Mountain Brook Village!

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

Here is an example of how banquettes can be used in more formal spaces.  The lines of the back of the banquette really create the focal point of this space. 

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

If you notice in this space, the banquette goes above the windows, but it still works.  I love the combination of color and pattern. 

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

This one has a fresh beach feel.

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

I choose this picture because it illustrates how you can use a banquette even when you don't have a niche to put it in.  The curves of this piece create the same cozy feel.

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

Look at all the storage in this example.  Talk about the heart of the home!

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

Although I'm not crazy about the style of the chairs in this picture, I love the color used on the cabinetry in the desk area and how this space is serving double duty as an eat in area and office.

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

This is the perfect example of how you can include a breakfast area in almost any kitchen.  This area looks like a former closet or bump out that is tucked into the kitchen without encroaching upon the work area.  Love it. 

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

This is a smart solution too.  Look at all the extra storage they were able to build in on that wall when they created the niche for the banquette.  Clever. 

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

This looks like a renovation of a room that was either a butler's pantry or sunroom.  Now it is usable space as a breakfast room and allows the kitchen to still function properly.

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com

Last, I could not resist including this picture.  That is not a mural on the wall within the banquette!! That is their view.  Can you imagine waking up to that each morning.  Sigh.

Photo courtesy of www.houzz.com