Hi June, can you tell us a bit more about whats going on outside of the window, is there a pretty courtyard or are you not on the ground level? any ideas of what it might have been previously, has something been converted? whats on the other side of the wall to the left of the window, are the walls brick or framed timber, are you able/interested in making structural changes (for example installing a sky light or converting to a door or reclaiming the space from the other side of the wall or giving it back to what ever is on the other side to make that space larger etc..) or just looking for ideas to utilise the space as is? thank you, with a bit more info Ill put my thinking cap on. I must say it is a peculiar little nook isnt it? cheers Kate

No longer have to go shopping with four children but I hear your pain LDL! My mum always babysat for me & now they are adults it is just token fun gifts as mostly they need $$$. I like markets for unusual gifts & if visiting country antique or craft stores through the year I might put some items away. My side of the family do hamper gifts each year which is home made fudge, pickles, jams, sauces, preserved lemons, dukkah or whatever they like to make in bulk. We take one of each item & end up with a hamper of goodies, it's great! My hubby's family put in together to sponsor a well or goat etc through World Vision which is also great! NO stress!

Agree with some of the ideas already mentioned of artwork (maybe 3 small framed prints or photos hung vertically given the light you intend to install?) to fill the wall space, tiered stand with fruit, cook books on one shelf and the other can be used for storing stationery, mail etc using a stacked set of drawers (some nice ones available at the stationery/office suppliers). You can hang removable hooks inside the door for keys. I'm not a fan of having "stuff" (papers, keys) on bench tops as it quickly turns into a dumping area and in a thoroughfare, things end up on the floor as people rush past. Best of luck - your kitchen is gorgeous by the way!!

Let's keep it nice, I don't think EthanWes is as precious as you may think and it is a forum for personal opinions after all. I also thought the comeback was unnecessarily aggressive & unwarranted. I would keep whatever you put there quite subtle and simple in colour so it doesn't draw the eye. You've got a nice retro/scandi feel from the look of it, see it as another way to carry this through?! So some ideas: - a small succulent in a low 1-2" pot, possibly including a trailing one such as Silver Falls (though don't let it get too out of hand!), will help make it look less compartmenty. Or even Ikea http://www.ikea.com/au/en/catalog/products/40349079/ - a couple of neutral coloured cookbooks stacked horizontally. - a nice low serving dish in a soft grey - but make it one you will actually use, not just for aesthetics! ; D I have a similar one to this https://www.countryroad.com.au/shop/home/kitchen-and-dining/serving/60209668/Tiro-Salad-Bowl.html https://www.countryroad.com.au/shop/home/kitchen-and-dining/serving/60203911-9084/Tapas-Salad-Bowl.html and use it a lot. - or, if you like your tech, it could be a great place for a small wireless speaker. Expensive example, but something like the Bose Soundlink Mini If you're looking for more ideas, 'open shelving' should provide lots though you are constrained with the very low height of the shelves.