Even before the rise of open-concept kitchens with spacious islands, the keeping room held a special place in homes as the central gathering spot. While its original purpose has evolved over time, the concept of a cozy sitting area near the kitchen is making a comeback. Interior designers are breathing new life into the keeping room, demonstrating its value as a valuable addition to modern homes. We spoke with experts to delve into this trend and explore why it’s gaining renewed popularity in 2025.
Get to Know the Experts:
– Daniel Joseph Chenin: Interior designer, architect, and founder of Daniel Joseph Chenin, Ltd.
– Ryan McCarthy: Interior designer at IconByDesign
– Loui Burke: Interior designer and home entertaining expert
What Exactly is a Keeping Room?
Traditionally, a keeping room is a small space adjacent to the kitchen, designed for casual gatherings and relaxation. It offers a place for family members or guests to socialize while meals are being prepared. According to architect and designer Daniel Joseph Chenin, the essence of a keeping room lies in fostering connections. It serves as a comfortable nook near the kitchen where people naturally come together, whether it’s family bonding over meal prep or guests enjoying the warmth of the space without being in the way.
A Glimpse into History:
The roots of the keeping room trace back to the Colonial era in America when the kitchen served as the primary heat source in homes. Chenin explains that this space wasn’t a luxury but a necessity. Families gathered in the keeping room for various daily activities, benefiting from its warmth and comfort. Despite changes in home heating methods, the concept of the keeping room endured, with homes in colder regions maintaining them as hubs for social interaction in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Why the Resurgence?
The resurgence of interest in keeping rooms aligns with the broader trend of embracing relaxed and functional living spaces. Interior designer Loui Burke notes that people seek areas within their homes that offer a respite from the main kitchen and living room, fostering meaningful conversations without distractions. Apart from the nostalgic appeal, keeping rooms serve a practical purpose in modern households. For instance, Chenin plans to incorporate one in his own home to keep his young children close by during cooking activities, providing them with a designated space for reading, playing, or helping with meal preparation.
Design Tips for Your Keeping Room:
Even in an open floor plan, subtle design elements can define a keeping room’s character. Chenin recommends playing with features like lowered ceiling height, paneling, or textured materials to distinguish this area while maintaining flow within the home. To enhance comfort and encourage lingering, Burke suggests incorporating velvet cushions, wool throws, and cozy blankets. McCarthy emphasizes the importance of selecting durable and stylish furniture pieces that can withstand frequent use, such as elegant armchairs or counter stools that seamlessly blend the kitchen and living areas together. To infuse personality into the space, Burke recommends layering different textures and elements like woven rugs,
“A keeping room should be a space that naturally attracts people,” he states. Explore more in the original article on Martha Stewart.
