23 Small Kitchen Dining Room Combo That Inspires Family Meals

Living and dining in a small kitchen space doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort.

Whether you’re working with a tiny apartment or downsizing to simplify life, these clever combo designs prove that cozy can be incredibly chic.

From smart storage solutions to layouts that maximize every inch, you’ll discover how intimate spaces often create the warmest family memories.

Farmhouse Style: Small White Shiplap Kitchen Opens Into Cozy Dining Nook With Family Heirloom Table

This kitchen-dining combo channels that Joanna Gaines magic you’ve been saving on Pinterest. White shiplap walls meet your grandmother’s dining table—it’s like wearing pearls with distressed denim. The family heirloom anchors everything while modern farmhouse touches keep it fresh.

Shop The Look:

1. White shiplap wall planks prefinished
2. Farmhouse dining table reclaimed wood
3. Windsor back dining chairs white
4. Vintage bronze cabinet hardware pulls
5. Butcher block kitchen island portable
6. Black iron pendant lights adjustable
7. Buffalo check kitchen curtains neutral
8. Natural fiber runner rug washable

DIY Paint Transformation

• Shiplap perfection: Paint your shiplap in “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) for that soft, authentic farmhouse glow that makes every meal feel special.
• Cabinet refresh: Use “Alabaster” (Sherwin Williams SW-7008) on existing cabinets to create cohesion between kitchen and dining spaces without looking matchy-matchy.
• Accent beam: Apply “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW-7048) to exposed beams or trim for sophisticated contrast that highlights architectural details.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open concept spaces with existing character features

Coastal Charm: Petite Beach-Inspired Kitchen Connects To Snug Dining Area With Ocean View Windows

This coastal kitchen-dining combo channels that breezy Hamptons vacation rental energy you’ve been saving on Pinterest. You’re bringing the beach house vibe home with weathered wood dining furniture and ocean-inspired blues—like wearing your favorite linen shirt year-round. The ocean view windows become your room’s jewelry, framing nature while you serve weekend brunch.

Shop The Look:

1. Weathered driftwood dining table rectangular
2. White spindle back dining chairs
3. Coastal rattan pendant light fixture
4. Blue glass subway tile backsplash
5. Brushed nickel cabinet pulls nautical
6. White sheer linen cafe curtains
7. Natural jute rope area rug
8. Whitewashed wood floating shelves

DIY Paint Transformation

• Main walls: Paint in “Sea Salt” (Benjamin Moore 2127-50) for that perfect blue-green that shifts with natural light like actual ocean water throughout the day.
• Accent beam: Use “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) on exposed beams or trim to create that classic beach cottage contrast against colored walls.
• Kitchen cabinets: Apply “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams SW-7005) on lower cabinets while keeping uppers open for an airy, beachside kitchen feel.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Spaces with natural light and water views

Modern Minimalist: Sleek Small Kitchen Merges With Streamlined Dining Zone For Family Gatherings

This is where your morning coffee ritual meets magazine-worthy design—think of it as the kitchen equivalent of a perfectly tailored blazer with sleek trousers. The streamlined approach creates visual breathing room while the dining zone anchors family connection. It’s that effortless sophistication that makes hosting feel natural, not stressful.

Shop The Look:

1. Sleek white handleless kitchen cabinets
2. Quartz waterfall edge dining table
3. Modern upholstered dining chairs charcoal
4. Matte black cabinet hardware minimal
5. Linear pendant light fixture chrome
6. White marble contact paper countertop
7. Stainless steel undermount kitchen sink
8. Gray geometric washable kitchen runner

DIY Paint Transformation

• Main walls: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) creates that gallery-fresh backdrop that makes your minimalist pieces pop without feeling stark or cold.
• Accent zone: Sherwin Williams “Repose Gray” (SW-7015) subtly defines the dining area while maintaining flow—like adding a silk scarf to complete an outfit.
• Ceiling refresh: Benjamin Moore “Super White” (OC-152) bounces light throughout the combo space, making even the smallest footprint feel expansive and airy.

Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces under 300 square feet

French Country: Diminutive Provence-Style Kitchen Adjoins Warm Dining Corner With Rustic Wooden Bench

This French Country setup brings that “vacation rental in the South of France” feeling straight to your everyday dining. You’re blending weathered wood with soft creams and warm terracotta—like pairing a linen blazer with your favorite broken-in leather boots. The rustic wooden bench anchors the dining corner while keeping traffic flow smooth, exactly what you need when hosting Sunday brunch. It’s that collected-over-time look that makes guests wonder if you secretly shop European flea markets.

Shop The Look:

1. Rustic wooden dining bench distressed finish
2. Round pedestal dining table weathered oak
3. French cane back dining chairs cream
4. Terracotta tile kitchen backsplash handmade
5. Antique brass cabinet pulls ornate
6. Wrought iron chandelier candelabra style
7. Toile de Jouy cafe curtains blue
8. Vintage Persian runner rug faded red

DIY Paint Transformation

• Dining area walls: Paint in “Linen White” (Benjamin Moore OC-146) to create that sun-washed Provence backdrop that makes your rustic pieces pop against creamy walls.
• Kitchen cabinets: Use “French Gray” (Sherwin Williams SW-0055) for lower cabinets to ground the space with sophisticated European charm while keeping things light.
• Ceiling beams: Apply “Natural Linen” (Benjamin Moore OC-141) on exposed beams or crown molding to enhance architectural details without overwhelming the intimate scale.

Budget Range: $8,000-$18,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Compact kitchen-dining combos with character features

Transitional Beauty: Space-Saving Kitchen Blends Into Welcoming Dining Spot With Mixed Metal Finishes

This transitional design creates that magazine-worthy kitchen where your morning coffee feels like a luxury hotel experience. You’re blending warm and cool metals—like mixing gold and silver jewelry, which fashion rules now totally allow. The mixed metals add depth without committing to one finish, giving you that collected-over-time sophistication. It’s the design equivalent of finding the perfect blazer that works with everything.

Shop The Look:

1. Brushed gold kitchen cabinet pulls
2. Matte black kitchen faucet industrial
3. Chrome and brass pendant lights
4. Copper backsplash tiles metallic
5. Stainless steel floating shelves
6. Walnut butcher block countertop
7. Mixed metal bar stools adjustable
8. Neutral linen kitchen runner washable

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen walls: Paint in “Revere Pewter” (Benjamin Moore HC-172) for that perfect greige that plays beautifully with both warm and cool metal tones.
• Cabinet refresh: Use “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) on cabinets to create a bright backdrop that makes your mixed metals pop like jewelry against a white dress.
• Dining accent: Apply “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW-7048) on one dining area wall to ground the space and complement your metal finishes.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open concept kitchen-dining spaces

Scandinavian Simplicity: Tiny Nordic Kitchen Opens To Hygge-Inspired Dining Space With Natural Light

Light-filled Nordic kitchens aren’t just trending on Instagram—they’re solving real-life combo space challenges. You’re channeling that Copenhagen coffee shop aesthetic where bleached wood meets soft linens, like pairing a cream cashmere sweater with tailored white pants. This approach transforms cramped quarters into breathing room through strategic minimalism and natural materials.

Shop The Look:

1. Whitewashed oak dining table expandable
2. Wishbone dining chairs natural wood
3. White oak floating kitchen shelves
4. White ceramic subway tile backsplash
5. Brass mushroom cabinet knobs Scandinavian
6. Woven pendant light fixture natural
7. Linen roman shade neutral beige
8. Jute round dining room rug

DIY Paint Transformation

• Main walls: Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” (OC-130) creates that signature Nordic backdrop that bounces natural light around your combo space like a professional photography studio.
• Accent zone: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW-7036) on the dining area wall adds barely-there warmth without disrupting the hygge flow.
• Ceiling brightener: Benjamin Moore “Super White” (OC-152) on the ceiling amplifies daylight and makes 8-foot ceilings feel cathedral-like.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: North-facing combo spaces needing brightness boost

Industrial Chic: Compact Urban Kitchen Combines With Edgy Dining Area Featuring Exposed Brick

This kitchen-dining mashup channels that trendy downtown loft aesthetic you’ve been saving on your Pinterest board. The exposed brick wall becomes your permanent art installation—like wearing a leather jacket with pearls, it’s unexpectedly sophisticated. Metal fixtures and raw wood create that perfect sweet spot between rough and refined.

Shop The Look:

1. Exposed brick veneer panels rust-red
2. Industrial metal dining table reclaimed wood
3. Black metal dining chairs vintage-style
4. Matte black iron pipe shelving
5. Edison bulb track lighting system
6. Copper hammered bar sink faucet
7. Distressed leather counter stools adjustable
8. Steel mesh cabinet door inserts

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet base: Paint lower cabinets in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) for that factory-chic vibe that makes stainless steel appliances pop against exposed brick.
• Ceiling drama: Use “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW-7048) on the ceiling to create an intimate dining atmosphere while maintaining industrial edge.
• Accent trim: Apply “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams SW-7005) on window frames and trim to brighten the space without competing with the brick’s natural texture.

Budget Range: $8,500-$18,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Loft-style apartments and open-concept urban spaces

Mediterranean Warmth: Small Tuscan Kitchen Extends Into Sun-Drenched Dining Alcove With Terra Cotta Accents

This is where your kitchen becomes that dreamy Italian cafe you discovered on your anniversary trip—minus the jet lag. Picture terracotta tiles meeting warm wood, creating that sun-soaked Mediterranean vibe that makes Thursday night pasta feel special. It’s the design equivalent of wearing linen pants with espadrilles—effortlessly chic and surprisingly practical.

Shop The Look:

1. Terracotta floor tiles hexagonal pattern
2. Arched dining alcove mirror antique
3. Wrought iron dining chairs cushioned
4. Rustic wood beam ceiling treatment
5. Copper pendant lights with patina
6. Hand painted tile backsplash Mediterranean
7. Natural jute area rug round
8. Distressed wood floating shelves walnut

DIY Paint Transformation

• Alcove walls: Paint in “Tuscan Stucco” (Benjamin Moore 1128) for that authentic sun-washed plaster look that transports you straight to the Italian countryside.
• Kitchen cabinets: Use “Windham Cream” (Benjamin Moore HC-6) on lower cabinets to create warmth without heaviness—perfect for small spaces.
• Accent details: Apply “Cavern Clay” (Sherwin Williams SW-7701) on window trim and architectural details to echo those signature terracotta accents.

Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces with natural light

Classic American: Modest Colonial Kitchen Joins Homey Dining Room With Windsor Chairs

Your grandmother’s Sunday dinners meet today’s Pinterest boards in this perfectly proportioned combo space. The Windsor chairs create that “gathered around the hearth” feeling while keeping sight lines open—like wearing pearls with your favorite cardigan. This traditional setup proves formal dining doesn’t need a separate room when you nail the colonial charm factor.

Shop The Look:

1. Windsor dining chairs dark wood
2. Oval pedestal dining table mahogany
3. Colonial style buffet hutch combination
4. Brass cabinet hardware traditional pulls
5. Beadboard wainscoting panels white
6. Antique brass chandelier six lights
7. Braided wool area rug burgundy
8. Linen valance curtains cream colored

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet makeover: Paint cabinets in “Linen White” (Benjamin Moore OC-146) for that authentic colonial warmth that makes wood furniture pop without competing.
• Dining accent: Try “Wythe Blue” (Benjamin Moore HC-143) on the dining room’s lower wainscoting for historical accuracy that feels fresh, not stuffy.
• Kitchen walls: Apply “Windham Cream” (Benjamin Moore HC-6) above chair rails to unify both spaces while maintaining each room’s distinct personality.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Traditional homes with adjacent kitchen-dining layouts

Shabby Chic Romance: Petite Distressed Kitchen Flows Into Dreamy Dining Space With Vintage Chandelier

Your kitchen becomes that French countryside retreat you’ve been pinning for years. The distressed white cabinets paired with a vintage crystal chandelier create the perfect backdrop for Sunday brunch conversations. It’s like mixing thrift store treasures with Anthropologie finds—effortlessly elegant without trying too hard.

Shop The Look:

1. Distressed white kitchen cabinets shaker
2. Crystal chandelier with candelabra bulbs
3. Whitewashed reclaimed wood dining table
4. French bistro chairs with rush seats
5. Antique brass cabinet pulls ornate
6. Subway tile backsplash crackle glaze
7. Vintage-inspired bridge kitchen faucet brass
8. Persian style kitchen runner faded

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet distressing base: Start with “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) then lightly sand edges and corners to reveal wood grain for that perfectly aged patina.
• Dining accent wall: Apply “Soft Chamois” (Benjamin Moore OC-13) for a barely-there warmth that makes white dishware and linens pop beautifully.
• Ceiling treatment: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin Williams SW-7008) with a matte finish to create that dreamy, cloud-like atmosphere above your chandelier.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open concept spaces under 200 square feet

Contemporary Clean: Efficient Small Kitchen Merges With Sophisticated Dining Area Using Glass Partitions

Glass partitions are creating that magazine-worthy flow between cooking and dining spaces—think of it as architectural shapewear for your home. You’re getting all the sophistication of separate rooms without sacrificing precious square footage, like wearing a blazer that somehow makes everything look pulled together. This approach brings natural light through both spaces while maintaining distinct zones. Perfect for anyone who wants their kitchen to feel twice as large without knocking down walls.

Shop The Look:

1. Glass room divider panels frameless
2. White quartz countertop with gray veining
3. Brushed nickel cabinet pulls contemporary
4. Glass pendant lights clear globe
5. Chrome kitchen faucet pull-down sprayer
6. Acrylic floating shelves transparent
7. Gray geometric kitchen runner washable
8. Modern upholstered dining chairs white

DIY Paint Transformation

• Main walls: Paint in “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) to maximize light reflection and make both spaces feel cohesive and airy.
• Accent feature: Use “Metropolitan” (Benjamin Moore AF-690) on the dining room accent wall for sophisticated contrast that defines the space.
• Ceiling drama: Apply “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams SW-7005) on ceilings to create height and enhance the contemporary clean aesthetic.

Budget Range: $15,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Open-plan apartments or condos needing defined spaces

Rustic Lodge: Compact Cabin Kitchen Opens To Woodsy Dining Nook With Stone Fireplace View

Picture your kitchen as a cozy mountain lodge where morning coffee tastes better by the crackling fire. This rustic design blends cabin charm with smart functionality—think Ralph Lauren’s Colorado ranch meets practical family living. The natural wood and stone elements create that vacation home atmosphere you’ve been pinning, while the compact layout keeps everything within arm’s reach.

Shop The Look:

1. Live edge dining table reclaimed wood
2. Windsor dining chairs dark oak
3. Stone veneer backsplash panels rustic
4. Wrought iron cabinet pulls 4-inch
5. Antler chandelier light fixture bronze
6. Copper hammered farmhouse sink single
7. Buffalo plaid kitchen runner rug
8. Lodge style window valance burgundy

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabin walls: Paint in “Mountain Road” (Benjamin Moore 1452) for that perfect greige that bridges rustic wood tones with modern comfort.
• Accent beam: Use “Iron Ore” (Sherwin Williams SW-7069) on exposed beams or trim to create authentic lodge contrast without overwhelming the compact space.
• Fireplace surround: Apply “Revere Pewter” (Benjamin Moore HC-172) on walls near the stone fireplace to enhance the natural texture while keeping things light.

Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open concept spaces with existing fireplace features

English Cottage: Little Garden-View Kitchen Connects To Charming Dining Corner With Floral Cushions

This English cottage kitchen makes every meal feel like you’re dining at that charming bed-and-breakfast from your anniversary trip. The garden view brings nature indoors while floral cushions add that Anthropologie store display charm—it’s basically wearing a vintage sundress to Sunday brunch. Your dining corner becomes the perfect spot for morning tea while scrolling through Southern Living.

Shop The Look:

1. Floral print dining chair cushions
2. Round pedestal dining table distressed white
3. Windsor back dining chairs cream
4. Beadboard wainscoting panels white
5. Brass cup pull cabinet hardware
6. Schoolhouse pendant light milk glass
7. Gingham check cafe curtains green
8. Vintage style kitchen runner rug

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Paint in “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) for that soft, chalky finish that screams English countryside without looking too precious.
• Dining nook accent: Use “October Mist” (Benjamin Moore 1495) on the dining area walls to create a sage-green backdrop that complements garden views beautifully.
• Trim detail: Apply “Alabaster” (Sherwin Williams SW-7008) on window frames and trim to highlight architectural details and frame your garden views perfectly.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Kitchens with natural light and garden views

Mid-Century Modern: Small Retro Kitchen Blends Into Nostalgic Dining Space With Walnut Furniture

That walnut dining set you’ve been eyeing at West Elm? This entire look captures that same sophisticated retro vibe without the boutique markup. You’re channeling peak Mad Men aesthetics—warm wood tones meet atomic-era curves, like pairing vintage Pyrex with your grandmother’s best china. The walnut furniture anchors everything with authentic mid-century warmth while keeping the footprint small.

Shop The Look:

1. Walnut dining table hairpin legs
2. Walnut dining chairs curved backs
3. Walnut floating shelves bracket-mounted
4. Brass cabinet hardware mushroom knobs
5. Geometric tile backsplash hexagon pattern
6. Sputnik chandelier brass finish
7. Vintage-inspired kitchen runner orange accents
8. Rattan pendant light natural woven

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen walls: Paint in “October Mist” (Benjamin Moore 1495) for that perfect warm gray that makes walnut furniture pop like it’s straight from a 1960s design catalog.
• Accent wall: Try “Newburyport Blue” (Benjamin Moore HC-155) on the dining area wall to create that nostalgic diner feel without going full theme park.
• Cabinet refresh: Use “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin Williams SW-7048) on lower cabinets for a rich contrast that plays beautifully with walnut tones and brass hardware.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open-plan spaces under 400 square feet

Southwestern Flair: Tiny Adobe-Style Kitchen Adjoins Festive Dining Area With Colorful Tile Accents

The warmth of terracotta tiles meets modern functionality in this compact combo that channels your favorite Santa Fe restaurant. You’re bringing that vacation rental charm home—think vibrant Talavera tiles against warm adobe walls, where every taco Tuesday feels like a fiesta. This design works like layering turquoise jewelry with neutral linen—unexpected pops of color that never overwhelm the space.

Shop The Look:

1. Talavera tile kitchen backsplash multicolor
2. Terracotta floor tiles hexagon
3. Wrought iron cabinet pulls decorative
4. Rustic wood dining table round
5. Leather dining chairs cognac
6. Clay pendant light fixture earthenware
7. Woven jute placemats natural
8. Kilim runner rug geometric pattern

DIY Paint Transformation

• Adobe walls: Paint in “Mesa Tan” (Benjamin Moore 1197) for that authentic sun-baked clay color that makes your space feel like a cozy hacienda.
• Accent wall: Try “Caliente” (Benjamin Moore AF-290) on your dining area wall to create that festive cantina energy without overwhelming the room.
• Ceiling drama: Apply “Linen White” (Benjamin Moore OC-146) on the ceiling with exposed wood beams left natural for that classic Southwestern contrast.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open-plan spaces with good natural light

Victorian Grace: Narrow Period Kitchen Extends Into Elegant Dining Parlor With Ornate Moldings

The Victorian kitchen-to-dining transformation speaks to every woman who’s ever watched Bridgerton while cooking dinner. You’re channeling that historic home tour energy—ornate crown moldings meet modern functionality, like pairing your grandmother’s pearls with your favorite blazer. This design brings back the parlor dining tradition where every meal feels like an occasion. It’s perfect for those narrow galley kitchens that need personality beyond subway tile.

Shop The Look:

1. Ornate crown molding Victorian style
2. Carved wood corbels for shelving
3. Antique brass cabinet pulls filigree
4. Tiffany-style pendant light fixture
5. Marble countertop with veining
6. Pressed tin backsplash tiles
7. Persian kitchen runner rug
8. Lace cafe curtains ivory

DIY Paint Transformation

• Period-perfect walls: Paint in “Stratton Blue” (Benjamin Moore HC-142) for that authentic Victorian parlor feeling that makes your narrow space feel intentionally cozy.
• Dramatic ceiling: Use “Hale Navy” (Benjamin Moore HC-154) on the ceiling to create that jewel box effect Victorian homes are famous for.
• Trim elegance: Apply “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) on all moldings and trim work to make those architectural details pop like museum-quality restoration.

Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Narrow galley kitchens in older homes

Bohemian Spirit: Small Eclectic Kitchen Flows Into Free-Spirited Dining Zone With Macramé Details

Your bohemian kitchen-dining combo creates that collected-over-time vibe, like your favorite thrift store finds met a Moroccan marketplace. The macramé details add texture without commitment—think of it as the design equivalent of layering vintage jewelry. This free-spirited approach lets you mix patterns fearlessly while maintaining flow between cooking and dining zones.

Shop The Look:

1. Macramé wall hanging natural cotton
2. Reclaimed wood dining table live edge
3. Rattan peacock dining chairs vintage
4. Moroccan tile peel stick backsplash
5. Brass cabinet pulls hammered finish
6. Beaded chandelier wood natural
7. Turkish kilim runner rug multicolor
8. Bamboo Roman shade natural weave

DIY Paint Transformation

• Feature wall: Paint your dining zone in “October Sky” (Benjamin Moore 2049-50) for that dusty blue backdrop that makes your macramé pop like gallery art.
• Kitchen cabinets: Try “Jute” (Sherwin Williams SW-6109) on lower cabinets for an earthy base that grounds your eclectic mix without competing.
• Ceiling surprise: Apply “Ballet White” (Benjamin Moore OC-9) on the ceiling to reflect light and make your bohemian layers feel intentional rather than cluttered.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open floor plans needing defined zones

Art Deco Glamour: Petite Geometric Kitchen Opens To Luxe Dining Space With Velvet Banquette

This Art Deco kitchen feels like stepping into a 1920s supper club where every meal becomes an event. The geometric patterns mixed with velvet textures create that upscale hotel lounge vibe—sophisticated yet approachable, like pairing designer heels with your favorite jeans. Your petite kitchen flows seamlessly into a dining space that makes Tuesday night takeout feel like fine dining.

Shop The Look:

1. Velvet channel tufted dining banquette emerald
2. Brass geometric cabinet hardware hexagon
3. Black marble contact paper countertop
4. Art Deco mirror backsplash tiles
5. Gold geometric pendant light fixture
6. Velvet dining chairs with brass legs
7. Black and gold geometric kitchen rug
8. Brass waterfall kitchen faucet

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen cabinets: Paint in “Tricorn Black” (Sherwin Williams SW-6258) for that dramatic, luxe foundation that makes brass hardware pop like jewelry against a little black dress.
• Dining accent wall: Apply “Emerald” (Benjamin Moore 2013-20) on the banquette wall to create a jewel-box effect that amplifies the velvet’s richness.
• Ceiling drama: Use “Brass Knuckles” (Benjamin Moore CW-155) on the ceiling for an unexpected metallic glow that ties the spaces together.

Budget Range: $15,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-concept apartments or narrow galley kitchens

Craftsman Character: Modest Built-In Kitchen Connects To Handcrafted Dining Room With Window Seat

Built-in banquettes transform awkward kitchen corners into the cozy breakfast spot you’ve been pinning for years. Think of it as bringing that charming bed-and-breakfast vibe home—handcrafted details meet practical storage, like pairing vintage boots with a modern dress. Window seats create the reading nook energy while maximizing every square foot.

Shop The Look:

1. L-shaped built-in banquette with storage
2. Craftsman style dining table oak
3. Windsor back dining chairs wood
4. Built-in window seat cushion custom
5. Mission style cabinet hardware bronze
6. Schoolhouse pendant light brass finish
7. Natural wood floating shelf brackets
8. Woven seagrass storage baskets rectangular

DIY Paint Transformation

• Built-in base: Paint in “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) to make your built-ins feel like original architectural features rather than add-ons
• Dining accent wall: Apply “Wythe Blue” (Benjamin Moore HC-143) behind your dining area for that historic home depth without overwhelming the craftsman aesthetic
• Window trim highlight: Use “Linen White” (Benjamin Moore 912) on window casings to frame your view and make the window seat feel intentional

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open plan kitchens needing defined dining zones

Hamptons Style: Small Airy Kitchen Merges With Breezy Dining Area Featuring Slipcovered Chairs

The breezy Hamptons aesthetic transforms your small kitchen-dining combo into that beachside cafe you discovered on vacation. Think white slipcovered chairs meeting light wood accents—like pairing a linen blazer with casual denim. This style breathes life into compact spaces while keeping everything functional for real family dinners.

Shop The Look:

1. White linen slipcovered dining chairs
2. Natural wood round dining table
3. Woven rattan pendant light fixtures
4. White beadboard kitchen backsplash panels
5. Brushed nickel cabinet pulls nautical
6. Blue striped roman shade valance
7. Natural jute area rug washable
8. White ceramic planter with herbs

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet makeover: Paint cabinets in “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) for that sun-bleached driftwood effect that screams expensive beach house without the mortgage.
• Accent wall: Apply “Palladian Blue” (Benjamin Moore HC-144) on one dining wall to channel those ocean views while keeping the space feeling open and airy.
• Trim detail: Use “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) on all trim and crown molding for crisp architectural lines that define zones without walls.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces under 200 square feet

Modern Farmhouse: Compact Black-and-White Kitchen Blends Into Gathering-Friendly Dining Space With Shaker Details

This modern farmhouse combo delivers that Joanna Gaines aesthetic with a contemporary twist—like pairing your favorite vintage band tee with sleek black leather leggings. The black-and-white palette creates instant sophistication while shaker details keep things grounded and approachable. Your compact kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining space, perfect for wine nights that turn into impromptu dinner parties.

Shop The Look:

1. White shaker cabinet doors 36-inch
2. Black quartz countertop with white veining
3. Subway tile backsplash glossy white
4. Matte black cabinet hardware pulls
5. Black metal pendant lights farmhouse
6. White oak dining table rectangular
7. Black Windsor dining chairs set
8. Striped jute area rug neutral

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet makeover: Paint existing cabinets in “Pure White” (Sherwin Williams SW-7005) for that crisp, clean shaker style that makes your kitchen feel twice as large.
• Accent island: Use “Tricorn Black” (Sherwin Williams SW-6258) on your kitchen island or lower cabinets to create dramatic contrast and hide daily fingerprints.
• Dining wall feature: Apply “Alabaster” (Sherwin Williams SW-7008) with shiplap paneling on one dining room wall for texture without overwhelming the compact space.

Budget Range: $8,000-$15,000 | Timeline: 2-3 weeks | Best For: Open concept apartments and small homes

Colonial Revival: Small Traditional Kitchen Opens Into Heritage-Inspired Dining Room With Pewter Accents

This design channels that cozy colonial museum house feel with modern functionality—think Mount Vernon meets everyday family life. You’re blending traditional craftsmanship with pewter hardware that catches morning light like vintage silver at your grandmother’s Sunday dinners. The open flow between kitchen and dining creates conversation zones while heritage colors ground the space in timeless sophistication.

Shop The Look:

1. Pewter cabinet pulls traditional style
2. Antique pewter chandelier dining room
3. Colonial spindle back dining chairs
4. Mahogany stained dining table rectangular
5. Subway tile herringbone pattern backsplash
6. Brass bridge kitchen faucet unlacquered
7. Persian runner rug navy traditional
8. Linen roman shades natural texture

DIY Paint Transformation

• Kitchen cabinets: Paint in “White Dove” (Benjamin Moore OC-17) for that classic colonial backdrop that makes pewter hardware pop like jewelry against a crisp white shirt.
• Dining room walls: Use “Hale Navy” (Benjamin Moore HC-154) to create that heritage library feel while making white trim and pewter accents shine.
• Connecting archway: Apply “Revere Pewter” (Benjamin Moore HC-172) on the bridging wall between spaces to tie both rooms together with subtle gray undertones.

Budget Range: $15,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Traditional homes with formal dining adjacency