A keeping room is a cozy area off the kitchen where friends and family can relax while meals are being prepared. Though this concept dates back to the 18th century, it’s making a comeback in modern homes as a warm, informal gathering spot.
A Brief History of Keeping Rooms
Originally known as hearth rooms, keeping rooms emerged in New England homes and later in the South. Kitchens were the only spaces with fireplaces, so these adjoining rooms provided warmth during cold winters. Families would gather here to cook, sew, or do chores, making it a central part of daily life.
Modern-Day Keeping Rooms
While the function has evolved, the purpose remains the same: offering a comfortable gathering space near the kitchen. Interior designer Michelle Gage explains, “Keeping rooms allow guests to be near the action but not in the way, creating a cozy spot to relax while meals are being prepped.”
These rooms complement the kitchen’s hard surfaces with softer, inviting materials, making them a perfect blend of function and comfort.
How to Style a Keeping Room
Comfort is key when decorating a keeping room. Deep sofas, pillows, throw blankets, or even a fireplace can make the space feel welcoming. Some feature breakfast nooks or rattan furniture, while others flow seamlessly into open kitchens, adding warmth to the home’s design.
Keeping Room vs. Family Room
Unlike family rooms, which often have TVs and are located farther from the kitchen, keeping rooms are always adjacent to it. Both are casual spaces, but a keeping room focuses more on conversation and connection near the kitchen hub.
The Lasting Appeal of Keeping Rooms
Though rooted in history, keeping rooms remain relevant today by offering warmth, charm, and value to modern homes—just as they did centuries ago.