What is a Keeping Room? Here is why I love this space.

In home design, the term “keeping room” might sound like some sort of storage space, but its purpose is as relevant as ever. Originally a staple of Colonial-era homes, the keeping room is a warm, inviting space offering comfort, connection, and practicality for families to gather. This may sound like your average Family Room. Read further and discover what exactly a keeping room is. It may be a space you may want for a new home or remodel.

What is a Keeping Room?
A keeping room is a small, informal seating area located near or just off the kitchen. Its primary function is to provide a cozy spot for family members or guests to relax and keep the cook company without being directly in the kitchen. So, you are literally keeping your guests out of the kitchen, but you are close enough so you can chat and connect!

The Origins of the Keeping Room
In Colonial America, before central heating existed, the kitchen was the warmest room in the house, thanks to the hearth. The keeping room evolved as a practical space where non-cooking family members could stay warm and remain out of the way while meals were being prepared. The hearth was the heart of the home, and because of its warmth, this area was sometimes called the “hearth room.

How is a Keeping Room Different from a Living Room or Den?
Unlike a living room or den, which are usually larger central entertainment spaces, the keeping room is typically smaller and more intimate. It’s designed to accommodate just a few people, creating a relaxed environment where family members or guests can sit close to the kitchen without disrupting the cooking process. While living rooms are often set away from the kitchen, the keeping room’s proximity makes it a bridge between socializing and food preparation.

Why Keeping Rooms Are Perfect for Modern Homes
Keeping rooms fit perfectly into today’s home layouts, especially for those who value connection and functionality. With open-concept kitchens being so popular, the idea of a small, adjacent seating area is more relevant than ever. The keeping room allows the cook to be part of the conversation, making meal prep feel less like a chore and more like a shared experience.

How to Make the Most of a Keeping Room (or Create One!)
If you’re fortunate enough to have a keeping room in your home, think about how it can meet the specific needs of your family during cooking time. Perhaps it’s a spot where a child can do homework. A teen can hang out with friends near the snacks, or your partner can relax and chat while dinner is being made. Furnish the space with comfort in mind—plush seating, cozy textures like soft rugs and pillows, and maybe even a small table for games or books.

 Don’t have a formal keeping room? You can recreate its function by adding a comfy chair or a small seating area in place of an unused breakfast nook. If your family room is open to the Kitchen have furniture pieces that can face the Kitchen swivel chairs are a great option.

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The keeping room’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and warmth—creating a space that’s as practical as it is inviting.