Our Kitchen’s Cozy Coffee Corner

Welcome to an exciting reveal that’s been brewing in our newly remodeled kitchen! Get ready to explore what might just be my new favorite “before and after” transformation: our custom-designed kitchen coffee bar. While it’s an integral part of our larger kitchen renovation, this dedicated coffee station truly deserves its own moment in the spotlight. I’m thrilled to share every thoughtful detail, from the functional design elements to the carefully selected accessories that make this space not only beautiful but also incredibly efficient. (Please note: This post includes commissionable links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. For more information, see my full disclosure statement {here})

Quick Links to Curated Coffee Bar Essentials

Elegant Marble Tray {shop here}

Stylish Coffee Syrup Pumps {find them here} (also consider {these similar options})

Chic Sugar Bowl {shop now}

Glass Coffee Canister with Airtight Seal {get yours here} (or explore {this budget-friendly alternative})

Handy Coffee Filter Holder {see details}

Nespresso Pod Organizer {buy here}

Long Gold Stir Spoons {discover them}

Coffee Maker Cleaning Tablets {ensure pristine coffee}

Continue reading for a comprehensive look at our stunning coffee bar and links to all additional items!

Kitchen Coffee Bar: A Stunning Before & After Transformation

Every great design story begins with a “before,” and our kitchen coffee bar’s journey is particularly compelling. Let’s rewind a bit to how this specific wall in our kitchen appeared when we first purchased our home. It’s truly amazing to see how far we’ve come.

As the “before” image clearly illustrates, this particular section of our kitchen, nestled between two entryways, was occupied by an imposing enclosed pantry and a built-in desk area. While functional in its own right, this setup felt dated and didn’t align with our vision for a modern, open, and highly efficient kitchen. The desk, in particular, was rarely utilized, becoming more of a catch-all space than a productive workstation. Our comprehensive kitchen remodel aimed to address these inefficiencies and unlock the true potential of this valuable wall space.

The transformation was nothing short of dramatic. As part of the extensive renovation, we strategically relocated the pantry to a more suitable area, completely removed the underused desk, and, in its place, designed and installed a magnificent, generously sized coffee bar. This new design not only provides a dedicated station for our daily coffee rituals but also integrates an abundance of much-needed storage, perfectly blending aesthetics with unparalleled functionality.

Now, feast your eyes on the breathtaking “after” view of that same wall, reimagined as our brand-new kitchen coffee bar:

To further appreciate the magnitude of this transformation, let’s consider that same wall from an alternate perspective. This different angle truly highlights the spatial changes and the refreshed aesthetic of the entire area. Here’s the “before” shot:

And now, behold that identical view today, showcasing the harmonious integration of our new coffee bar into the overall kitchen design:

With those inspiring before-and-after glimpses, let’s delve deeper into the specific elements that brought this dream coffee bar to life. We’ll begin with the foundation of any great kitchen design: the cabinetry.

Kitchen Coffee Bar Cabinets: Design and Style Excellence

For the cabinetry throughout our entire remodeled kitchen, including this standout coffee bar, we opted for the exceptional quality of Wellborn cabinets. Specifically, we chose the elegant Galena Square door style. This choice offers a sophisticated take on the classic Shaker design, distinguishing itself with the subtle yet refined addition of a narrow strip of molding along the inside edge. This small detail elevates the door profile, adding a layer of custom craftsmanship and visual interest that perfectly complements our desired aesthetic.

In terms of color, I selected one of Wellborn’s exquisite stock finishes: Gray Mist. This particular hue is incredibly versatile and plays beautifully with the natural light throughout the day. It has a remarkable chameleon-like quality, appearing as a soft, sophisticated gray in some lighting conditions, while subtly shifting to reveal warmer, more inviting beige undertones in others. This dynamic characteristic ensures the coffee bar cabinetry feels cohesive with varying elements of our kitchen, preventing it from looking stark or out of place.

The overall design for the cabinetry of our coffee bar was largely inspired by a truly stunning coffee station crafted by Christie Lewis Interiors. Their masterful blend of elegant glass cabinets and airy floating shelves for the upper storage immediately captivated me, offering the perfect balance of display and hidden organization. Following this inspiration, I designed a series of functional base cabinets for our coffee bar, primarily featuring drawers. Drawers are indispensable in a busy kitchen, offering unparalleled accessibility and making it easy to keep smaller items organized and within reach. These base cabinets are beautifully topped with Viatera’s Calacatta Suprema quartz, a premium surface that we meticulously selected and incorporated throughout our entire kitchen. While I’ll unveil more images of this stunning quartz as part of my complete kitchen reveal, here’s a sneak peek at its exquisite pattern:

My decision to choose Calacatta Suprema quartz was driven by its unique aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Its distinctive veining elegantly incorporates both cool, subtle grays and inviting, light brown warm tones, making it exceptionally versatile and harmonious with a wide range of color palettes and design styles. Beyond its beauty, this quartz has proven to be an absolute dream to maintain. Any spills or potential food “stains” vanish effortlessly with just a simple wipe of a damp cloth, underscoring its durability and ease of care – a crucial factor for any high-traffic kitchen area like a coffee bar.

For the upper cabinetry, I opted for 15-inch deep units that elegantly rest directly on the quartz-topped base. This thoughtful design choice creates a seamless, built-in look and maximizes the usable storage depth, allowing for larger serving pieces and appliances to be stored comfortably. The depth also adds a substantial, custom feel to the entire coffee bar unit.

A significant design decision was whether to choose solid or glass upper cabinet doors. After much deliberation, and considering my collection of beautiful dinnerware and serving pieces, I ultimately decided on glass. Looking at the finished result, I am incredibly delighted with this choice. The glass fronts not only provide a sophisticated visual break from the solid lower cabinets but also offer an expansive amount of room for storing all our entertaining essentials. More importantly, they allow for effortless visibility, making it incredibly quick and easy to locate and retrieve anything we need, turning everyday functionality into a display of curated elegance.

Sources (from top to bottom): Small woven baskets (similar, perfect for concealing smaller items) | Elegant Cane drinking glasses (adding a touch of texture) | Charming Ruffled bowl set (ideal for snacks or sauces) | Unique White colander mugs (combining form and function) | Adorable Scalloped mini colanders (perfect for berries) | Classic Honey pot with dipper (a sweet addition to the display)

Sources (from top to bottom): Stately White ceramic pitcher (versatile for beverages or flowers) | Textured Woven vase (adds organic warmth) | Natural Rattan bowl (a beautiful centerpiece) | Generous Large popcorn bowl (ready for movie nights) | Coordinating Small popcorn bowls (perfect for individual servings) | Delicate Beaded glass mugs (for a touch of elegance) | Spacious Large glass canister (ideal for bulk storage) | Convenient Smaller glass canister (for frequently used ingredients) | Chic Wood scoops in canisters (practical and stylish) | Artistic Wood vases (similar, for decorative accents) | Everyday Glass mugs (staples for morning coffee) | Delightful Mini floral bowls (for a pop of pattern).

Coffee Bar Lighting: A Bold and Harmonious Choice

When it came to illuminating our coffee bar, I sought to make a statement that was both functional and aesthetically impactful. For lighting above this dedicated space, I selected a pair of {these striking swing arm sconces}. I’m quite aware that this particular choice might be a bit of a controversial design decision for some, and I anticipate it sparking a few differing opinions! However, for me, it was an intentional and cherished selection.

Indeed, these sconces are decidedly oversized for the space they occupy, creating a dramatic visual impact. This “oversized” aesthetic is a look that truly resonates with me and falls squarely into my “love” category. The boldness of their scale brings a unique character and a touch of unexpected grandeur to the coffee bar, elevating it beyond mere functionality to a true design focal point. What truly solidified this choice, however, is the exquisite detail of the rattan-wrapped arms on the sconces. This organic texture creates a beautiful, harmonious connection with the rattan elements found in our kitchen island pendants, ensuring a cohesive and thoughtfully designed flow throughout the entire kitchen. The warm glow from these sconces not only provides ideal task lighting for coffee preparation but also casts a cozy, inviting ambiance, making early mornings feel a little more luxurious.

Coffee Bar Shelves & Accessories: Styling with Purpose

To break up the tall upper cabinets and introduce an element of open display, I strategically incorporated a pair of {these beautiful 15-inch by 48-inch floating wood shelves}. Selected in a warm natural color option, these shelves fit perfectly into the space between the two striking cabinet units, adding both visual interest and practical surface area.

For those who have followed my design journey, you might recall my previous enthusiastic use of {these exceptional floating wood shelves} from UltraShelf, notably featured in our stunning master bathroom remodel. My decision to choose a different option this time around was purely practical: for the coffee bar, the exact shelf dimensions I needed were standard sizes, allowing me to find a high-quality yet more cost-effective alternative. However, it’s important to note that for any custom-sized shelving projects, UltraShelf remains my absolute go-to for their superior craftsmanship and tailored solutions.

My vision for these floating shelves was clear: they needed to be both inherently stylish and highly functional. I approached their styling with deliberate intention, carefully curating each item placed upon them. The primary goal was to display some of our more beautiful serving pieces, those cherished items that are not only decorative but also frequently used when we entertain guests. This approach ensures that the shelves contribute to the kitchen’s aesthetic while remaining a practical extension of our entertaining arsenal.

On the top shelf, I arranged a collection that balances elegance with utility. This includes {this charming cane glass pitcher}, perfect for serving drinks or holding fresh flowers. Beside it rests a generously sized serving platter that perfectly complements our everyday dinnerware, ready for any gathering. Adding a touch of delicate charm is a stack of {these exquisite 6-inch blossom bowls}, beautifully layered upon my cherished wedding china salad plates, marrying sentimentality with practical display.

Completing the top shelf’s arrangement is a large, organic wood bowl, paired with {these beautifully crafted spiral wood salad tongs}. This combination not only adds a warm, natural element but is also perfectly poised for serving salads or fruits when entertaining, making the shelves genuinely functional beyond just display.

The lower floating shelf continues the theme of functional elegance. Here, I’ve placed some of my favorite cookbooks, held upright and beautifully organized by {this sturdy and stylish marble bookend}. Adjacent to them, {this lovely planter} cradles a vibrant fiddle leaf fig plant, introducing a refreshing touch of natural greenery and life into the space. The inclusion of living elements softens the lines of the cabinetry and adds an organic warmth.

Further enhancing the lower shelf’s curated look are {this elegant handled cutting board} and {this round marble board}, both practical kitchen tools that double as sophisticated decorative accents. A pair of {these charming ruffled serving bowls} adds texture and a subtle whimsical touch. Finally, to infuse a vibrant yet natural burst of color, I’ve included {these remarkably realistic faux artichokes}, which provide a beautiful focal point without the maintenance of real plants. Each item on these shelves is chosen not just for its beauty but for its ability to either serve a purpose or contribute to the overall inviting ambiance of our coffee bar.

Coffee Machines & Accessories: The Heart of the Bar

At the very heart of our coffee bar setup are our two beloved coffee machines. Yes, you read that right – we each have our own preferred method for brewing, a testament to our distinct coffee palates! For Jeff, it’s the robust flavors delivered by {this reliable MoccaMaster coffee maker}, known for its precision and consistent brew quality. Meanwhile, I am utterly devoted to the convenience and crema-rich delights produced by {this sleek Nespresso machine}. Having both machines side-by-side ensures that our individual coffee cravings are always met with ease and efficiency, making our morning routine a truly personalized experience.

Thoughtful organization is key in a dedicated coffee station. Between our two primary brewing devices, we’ve positioned {this elegant wood holder}, perfectly designed to keep Jeff’s coffee filters neatly stacked and readily accessible. This small detail prevents clutter and adds a touch of natural warmth to the countertop.

Adjacent to this, serving as a stylish centerpiece, is {this beautiful marble tray}. This tray elegantly corrals several essential coffee accessories, keeping them organized and preventing them from scattering across the counter. It holds {this sophisticated glass canister, filled with freshly ground coffee}, ensuring that our brew is always at its best. Also neatly arranged are {these convenient syrup pumps}, allowing us to easily customize our drinks with a touch of flavored sweetness. Completing this curated collection is {this charming sugar bowl}, adding a refined touch to the whole setup. Each item is chosen for both its aesthetic appeal and its contribution to a seamless and enjoyable coffee-making experience.

Coffee Bar Drawers: Smart Storage Solutions

While I plan a dedicated full post to showcase the meticulous cabinet and drawer organization throughout our entire remodeled kitchen (so stay tuned for that!), I simply couldn’t wait to share a peek into one of my favorite organized spaces today. This particular drawer, located directly beneath my Nespresso machine, is a true testament to intelligent design, providing a streamlined home for all my Nespresso pods and essential coffee accessories. It’s the epitome of “a place for everything, and everything in its place,” making my morning routine effortlessly smooth.

Central to this organized haven is {this wonderfully simple storage tray}. Its slots are perfectly sized to snugly accommodate Nespresso Vertuo pods, ensuring they are neatly displayed and easily accessible. To the right of this specialized tray, I’ve utilized one of {these ingenious bamboo spring-loaded dividers}. This clever divider serves a dual purpose: it locks the pod tray securely into place within the drawer, preventing it from shifting, and also creates a defined section for other items. Within this section, I’ve incorporated four of the six versatile bamboo drawer organizers from {this comprehensive set}. These smaller organizers are ideal for segmenting the drawer into dedicated compartments, holding various essentials: my long stir spoons, an assortment of paper straws (a personal preference – I use them to protect my teeth from coffee stains!), {these crucial coffee machine cleaning tablets}, and two of {these elegant glass spice jars}, which contain my frequently used cinnamon and ground cloves, ready to be shaken into my coffee for an extra layer of flavor. This thoughtful internal organization maximizes every inch of space, proving that even the smallest details contribute significantly to a highly functional kitchen.

Backsplash Tile: Subtle Elegance and Versatility

For the backsplash behind our coffee bar, I carefully selected {this beautiful subway tile}. It’s an incredibly versatile choice that consistently performs well, seamlessly integrating into various design schemes. Its neutral foundation ensures that it doesn’t compete with the other design elements but rather provides a sophisticated backdrop, allowing the rich tones of the cabinetry, the intricate patterns of the quartz, and the curated accessories to truly shine. What makes this particular tile so captivating, and far more engaging than a typical, monochromatic subway tile, is its subtle color variation. This nuanced range of tones adds depth, character, and a handmade feel, preventing the surface from appearing flat and instead lending a gentle, textured visual interest.

To complement the tile and achieve a refined finish, I chose Mapei Eggshell for the grout, opting for slender 1/16-inch grout lines. This thin grout line choice minimizes the visual interruption, allowing the individual tiles to stand out while still providing the necessary structure and protection. The ‘Eggshell’ shade of grout further enhances the tile’s inherent beauty, providing a soft, almost seamless transition that contributes to a polished and timeless aesthetic for our coffee bar backsplash.

Cabinet Hardware: Timeless Touches and Reused Elegance

When it came to selecting the cabinet hardware for our new coffee bar, keen observers might find my choices refreshingly familiar. That’s because I consciously decided to reuse these exact knobs and pulls, a decision driven by both practicality and a deep appreciation for their enduring style.

The knobs are {these classic round Amerock knobs}, which I had initially integrated into our kitchen as part of the budget-friendly kitchen makeover we undertook shortly after moving into our home. Their timeless design and excellent quality made reusing them an absolute no-brainer, eliminating the need to purchase new ones and ensuring continuity with existing kitchen elements. For the pulls, I opted for {these sleek Amerock Blackrock pulls}, which previously graced the cabinets during our kitchen remodel in our former residence. I am consistently drawn to their simple yet undeniably stylish design, and the fact that they are available in a wide array of size options makes them incredibly versatile for various cabinet dimensions. Both the knobs and pulls are finished in the exquisite Golden Champagne, a warm, sophisticated hue that adds a subtle touch of luxury without being overly ornate, perfectly complementing the Gray Mist cabinetry and overall kitchen palette.

And for those who are always curious about the precise color details (because I know you’ll ask!), the unifying wall color throughout this space is Benjamin Moore Simply White. This crisp, clean white provides the perfect neutral backdrop, allowing the rich textures and finishes of the coffee bar to truly stand out.

And with that, our detailed reveal of the kitchen coffee bar is complete! It’s a space that truly embodies the blend of functionality and sophisticated design we aimed for in our renovation. I extend my sincere gratitude to Konrady & Son Construction, whose expert craftsmanship and dedication were instrumental in bringing this project to life. Stay tuned for my very next post, where I’ll be sharing the grand tour of the rest of our beautifully remodeled kitchen, unveiling even more design insights and inspiring transformations! Thank you for joining me on this journey.