It's a multifunctional spot for meals at different times of the day, an area for the kids to complete their homework or a craft project, and a place to enjoy a glass of wine after work or tea with a neighbor. These cozy spaces are usually more casual—and thus more used—than a formal dining space and offer the convenience of being right in the kitchen, where it’s easy to converse with the cook or take a few minutes for a simple solo meal. Though this space can sometimes stump the most confident homeowners, the formula for creating a perfect dining nook is really quite simple and works for nearly every type of home.

So, what makes a great breakfast nook?

1. A signature light fixture

This is a great opportunity to reflect the look that you desire. It’s equally important to ensure it’s hung at the correct height and works proportionately with your table. Make sure to select a light fixture that complements other pendant lighting you may have in your kitchen, but isn’t an exact match.

2. The right table for your space

A pedestal shape is usually a safe bet, but all types of tables can conceptually work, depending on the size of your space and the seating configuration.

3. A built-in banquette

Whether it's upholstered or left bare with a few pillows, a built-in banquet can be one of the defining features of a breakfast nook. Since they're usually custom-fabricated for your home, this is a great opportunity to incorporate storage, as well as to choose the material, moldings, and trim. Renters can achieve a similar look with a tightly upholstered dining height love seat, which can be bought off the shelf or custom fabricated to fit your space.

4. Special chairs

Dining nooks offer an opportunity to add chairs that are perhaps more whimsical or expensive than what you would select when choosing several chairs for a formal dining space. This is a great opportunity to add some interest or a little luxury with a modern classic.

5. Natural light

While not required, this is definitely a big plus when it comes to making a cozy nook feel warm, pleasant, and inviting. Roller shades can be extremely valuable, as no one enjoys dining with bright sun in their eyes.