Long before open-concept kitchens and oversized islands, the keeping room was the heart of the home. While its original function has evolved, the idea of a relaxed sitting area near the kitchen is once again top-of-mind. Now, with interior designers giving this space a fresh look, the keeping room is proving to be a smart addition to today’s homes. Here, we spoke to the experts about this trend and why it’s getting a fresh wind in 2025.

What Is It?

Traditionally, a keeping room is a small space located near the kitchen that’s designed for informal gathering and relaxation. It’s where family members or guests can spend time together while meals are being prepared.

On a deeper level, architect and designer Daniel Joseph Chenin says a keeping room is about connection. “It’s that comfortable, tucked-away spot near the kitchen where people naturally gather, whether it’s family catching up while dinner is being made, or guests lingering in the warmth of the space—without hovering over the stove,” he says.

History

The keeping room dates back to the Colonial period in America, when the kitchen was the home’s primary heat source. “It wasn’t a luxury—it was a necessity,” says Chenin. Families gathered here for everyday activities, from storytelling to sewing, since it was often the warmest place.

As home heating evolved, the keeping room became less common. However, the idea never fully disappeared, according to Ryan McCarthy, an interior designer at IconByDesign. Even in the 18th and 19th centuries, homes in colder climates kept them as a natural gathering point.

Why It’s Trending

The renewed interest in keeping rooms ties into a broader shift toward relaxed, functional living. “People want areas that offer a break from the main kitchen or living room and that encourage conversation without distraction,” says interior designer Loui Burke.

Beyond nostalgia, they also serve a purpose in the modern home. “In my own home, I’m adding one near the kitchen because we have young children,” says Chenin. “I’d rather they be nearby while we cook than scattered around the house. It becomes a natural spot for them to read, play, or even help with prep.”

How to Design One

Even in an open floor plan, subtle design choices can give a keeping room its own identity. Chenin suggests lowering the ceiling height, adding paneling, or using textured materials to create definition without breaking the flow of the home. 

Because this is an area for lingering, Burke recommends adding velvet cushions, wool throws, and a chunky knit blanket to make it more inviting. “A well-placed chair by the window or a cushioned bench encourages people to sit and stay a while,” he adds.

McCarthy suggests using furniture that’s both stylish and practical: “Durable, high-quality pieces matter in a high-use area.” Elegant armchairs or counter stools can tie the kitchen and living areas together, too.

Finally, personal touches make the room feel lived-in. Burke recommends layering different elements, like a woven rug, leather accents, or a curated bookshelf, to add personality. “A keeping room should be a place people naturally gravitate toward,” he says.