Small Kitchen Seating Ideas

Solve the kitchen seating quandary with practical yet pretty ways to take a seat at mealtime.
Eat-In Kitchen With Pink Rug

Contemporary Eat-In Kitchen With Pink Rug

This kitchen is light and bright, and designer Orlando Soria even worked in a tiny table for two. Mint green chairs and a pale pink rug are fun bits of color, yet not too imposing in the small space.

Photo by: Zeke Ruelas

Zeke Ruelas

By: Alison Miller

With proper small kitchen seating ideas, components work together and fit tightly to maximize space. For example, backless stools can be tucked under kitchen islands while armless chairs can scoot underneath a kitchen table.

20 Small Kitchen Makeovers You Won't Believe

See All Photos

Shop This Look

A built-in bench is another smart space-saving choice, especially if the design offers added storage underneath. Take the time to consider how seating factors into the mix and scale of designing your small kitchen. Whether you opt for bar stools, chairs or built-in benches, choose your seat wisely.

Close quarters call for seating options that won't make the kitchen feel confined. Enter chairs without arms. Though not as comfy as armchairs, they're easier to get in and out of when space is tight.

In addition to scale, portability is a plus in a small kitchen. Employ chairs from an adjoining room to moonlight as dining chairs come mealtime, then whisk them away afterward.

Combining single chairs with a removable bench at the table offers a versatile seating arrangement. It guarantees room for extra guests at the table, punches up the style factor. Removing the bench and easing the table against the wall will allow for more floor space when it's needed.

For eat-in kitchens with peninsulas or center islands, whether permanent or removable, backless stools are a seating option that won't take up a lot of space. The clean-lined bar stools can be slipped under a kitchen island or stacked and stored in a corner to open up the floor space between meals. More specifically, modern-style Lucite stools are practically transparent, meaning they take up little visual room and create the illusion of spaciousness in your kitchen. Another space-expanding trick to keep in mind when selecting a stool is to think monochromatic. Unify the room by choosing stools in colors that match the walls and cabinetry.

Although built-in banquettes and removable benches may appear bulky and substantial, their angular "L" shape lends them to easing into odd corners and nooks, so that every precious square inch of a small kitchen is put to good use. With careful space arranging, this eat-in kitchen seating layout makes your kitchen feel much more welcoming and cozy. Up the style ante with a splash of color and pattern through easily changeable upholstery or accent pillows. This instant focal point will be proof that spare on space doesn't mean spare on style!

Next Up

Small Kitchen Decorating Ideas

Enhance your small kitchen with great decorating ideas. A little goes a long way in a small kitchen, so get inspired by pictures of inspirational rooms that deliver a balance of form and function.

20 Stylish Ergonomic Office Chairs for Every Budget in 2023

Outfit your home office or dorm with one of these supportive office chairs.

This Kitchen Reno Was Worth the Wait

Tiny, dated, barely any counter space: enough! A homeowner finally gets reno relief.

The Best Patio Chairs for Every Style and Budget

These weather-resistant chairs are just what you need to transform your outdoor space into a summer oasis.

40+ Stylish Outdoor Chaise Lounges for Every Budget

Turn your outdoor space into a resort-style oasis with one iconic chair.

How to Make a Bench Cushion With a Removable Cover

Learn how to use a fabric shower curtain to sew an upholstered cushion for a kitchen banquette, window seat or patio furniture.

The Best Small-Space Kitchen and Dining Tables

These space-saving tables are short in size but big on style.

15 Small Space-Friendly Desks Under $350

Finding a budget-friendly desk for a small space can be tricky, but these under-$350 picks will give your apartment or guest-room-meets-home-office the function it needs.

The Best Barstools for Every Style and Budget

If you're on the hunt for the just-right barstool, look no further. We've narrowed the search to the best seats on the market.

11 Best Garage Shelving Ideas

Functional and practical, these storage solutions will transform your garage from messy to organized.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.