In recent years, coffee nooks have become a cherished feature in apartments, offering occupants a dedicated space to enjoy cups of their favourite brew. However, these small areas can be more than just functional spots. With thoughtful design and decorative elements on the part of the owner, they can become an apartment space’s most cosy retreat—a comfortable escape from the busyness of daily life, and also an ideal spot for home entertaining.
Simple additions like art posters and complementary picture frames from DROOL Art—a platform dedicated to uplifting the best contemporary works from up-and-coming artists—can transform a humble coffee corner into a true highlight of modern apartment living. If you need more decorating inspiration, here are five creative and practical ideas from DROOL:
1) Incorporate Eye-Catching Wall Art into the Space
Do you notice that the cosiest and most appealing cafés and restaurants put a lot of thought into their wall décor? The same principle could apply to your own apartment home’s coffee nook. Whether you lean toward bold, abstract designs or calming, minimalist prints, it will make a big difference to the appeal of your nook to furnish its surrounding walls with artwork that speaks to you. Place a featured piece at eye level above your coffee table or on a nearby wall for maximum impact.
When selecting wall art, think about how it complements the colours and textures in your particular space. Earthy or vibrant hues can complement warm-toned nooks, while neutral setups benefit from prints that bring in pops of colour and intrigue. Explore DROOL’s collection of contemporary art prints and posters to find some awesome starter pieces for your nook.
2) Choose a Functional and Aesthetic Table Setup
Your coffee nook’s table is more than just a surface for laying cups and saucers down. Think of it as the centrepiece that ties the space together. To strike the perfect balance, consider both functionality and style when choosing your ideal table. For instance, a compact round table that offers just enough room for your coffee essentials without feeling cramped works well in smaller spaces. If storage is a concern, look for a table with built-in shelves or drawers to keep your nook tidy and organised.
Once you’ve selected the perfect table, enhance the aesthetic with thoughtfully chosen accessories. A chic tray can neatly corral coffee mugs, a sugar bowl, and a small vase of flowers, while coasters in a complementary design will add both practicality and flair.
Don’t forget to leave a little open space for books, magazines, or even a sleek French press—details that will make your coffee nook feel inviting and effortlessly styled.
3) Add Textures and Accessories
Textures can make all the difference in turning your coffee nook into a warm and relaxing space reminiscent of your favourite coffee shop. Picture soft cushions or a small throw draped over a nearby chair, which will instantly add comfort and a cosy vibe. If your nook includes a bench or built-in seating, you can also add a tufted seat pad or textured pillows to balance functionality and charm.
Accessories also play a key role in personalising your nook. Try adding a small plant or two to bring life and freshness to the area, or a decorative jar or container to keep your coffee pods or beans within reach.
Don’t be afraid to mix materials like wood, ceramic, and metal for even more visual interest. These small touches will help create a space that feels layered and lived-in.
4) Create a Cosy Atmosphere with Ambient Lighting
Lighting can completely transform the feel of your coffee nook, and there are simple ways that you can turn it into a warm and welcoming retreat for both yourself and your guests. To achieve this perfect balance, layer your lighting thoughtfully. Start with a table lamp or a small pendant light to provide a soft glow. Then, add string lights or candles for an extra layer of warmth, which will help you achieve a relaxing ambience that’s perfect for your morning brew or evening wind-down.
To enhance the effect, consider how your lighting interacts with the surrounding décor. A carefully placed light source can highlight key elements like a textured wall, decorative accents, or even artwork. The interplay of light and shadow can also bring out the finer details in your coffee nook, making it an even more inviting space to spend prolonged time in.
5) Personalise the Space in a Variety of Ways
Because it may boost your motivation and creativity, one of the best ways to decorate your coffee nook is to take all the effort to personalise it. Down the line, you may want to invest in a coffee machine in your favourite colour or source beans that are known for beautiful packaging as well as quality. Furnish the space with art pieces, figurines, or travel souvenirs that inspire you, evoke cherished memories, or simply speak to your aesthetic preferences. If anything, your design choices in your coffee nook can be some of the best opportunities to tell a story about yourself and your life.
As far as prints are concerned, select ones with colours or themes that match your vibe. If you’re unsure where to start, DROOL’s Art Finder Quiz is a fantastic tool to help you discover pieces that align with your taste.
Consider these ideas when decorating your coffee nook to create a space that’s not just good for enjoying a perfect cup, but also for energising your mind and body. Browse through DROOL’s collection for contemporary art prints and posters that you’d want to have in the background every time you brew!
