Where are you located? I'm in Mass and we have these unfinished furniture stores called "The Mill Stores" who usually sell these. If you aren't in New England you may just want to look for an unfinished wood or furniture store. Many times they can order them if they don't carry them in stock. Also, if you post a picture and price range for what you want that can help with helping you search.

mlraff53 - is it the wood set? It does look really nice...do you think it could be painted black? The only IKEA's near me are either in Canada, where the us $ isn't doing too well, or in Seattle, which is about 2 hours away. I wish I had one closer. There was a set I saw at IKEA called Lacko (I think). The thing that drives me crazy about IKEA is how fast they get rid of things. I liked the Lacko chairs and they were cheap but can't find them anymore. They have the table still, which I'm not crazy about, but I can't find the chairs online anymore. They are light green but I can spray paint them. By the way, how do you insert a link? I was going to show you a cheap table at IKEA that I thought might work with some black chairs?

Thanks so much to all of you who responded. What you may not realize is that you have played a siginificant role in stopping a speeding train wreck in its tracks. In fact, when I read your advice, I recognized you were only telling me things I've already reasoned and been committed to for the past year: Yes, a built-in banquette is preferable to a bistro table and cafe chairs and I've already got a perfectly working design that says I can actually fit one into a space that is only 6' x 3'5" Case closed! (Heh heh) So, I guess this means I'm going forward with the banquette plan. As you've noted Jeannie_Kitchen, a built-in can be a highly valued thing on resale, especially here in NYC where our typically small kitchens demand all kinds of spatial design tricks. So, even though my kitchen plans are driven by my personal desires and not resale value (I don't plan to sell my house anytime in the foreseeable future), it's still a reno bonus when both those factors can work together in my favor. I also agree with Remodelfla, Bbstx and Astridh that, even after all is said and done, I only get to use it as a window seat -- it's still worth it! BTW, Bbstx , special thanks for those links. I'd read Susan Serra's piece several times in the past but this is the first time I actually noticed that marble top/wrought iron table. That's pretty much the kind of table I've been eyeing (although mine would likely be smaller). Mama and Rosie , we're definitely in sync on lovin' a marble top table. (Jeannie_Kitchen , unfortunately, the one at Napastyle is sold out!) Mama , you are also spot on about getting casters for the table, especially if it has a marble top and wrought iron base. Such a table would probably be awfully heavy to move in order to get inside access to the window seat! But, even if I don't go with a marble top table, I have given thought to your alternate a suggestions of a drop leaf table. As a matter of fact, Crate and Barrel has a "Brunello wine table" which I've linked below. I've been thinking it might do the trick. Plus, because it's red and lacquered, it just might go perfectly with my red enameled Aga! Of course, Buehl , and Malhgold you know I appreciate your support! Buehl , I surely plan to put very comfy, 4"-5" cushions on that banquette and to use supportive pillows on the back of it as well. Lastly, Raynag , well you know you definitely nailed it when you said -- "Remember the Aga decision." That is exactly what this is all about: Seeding and nursing second doubts about otherwise very well thought out plans just when it's time to pull the trigger! So, if nothing else, please know that I'm totally grateful to my fellow TKOers who so unselfishly take the time out to help us define and hit our targets. You're the best! Here is a link that might be useful: Crate and Barrel Wine Table

For starters, true elegance IMO is simple. And I for one understand what OP means by rustic elegance. So: I love white, so I'd go with a creamy white on the walls. I have SW Creamy in a north facing room, and it's warm and soft. Another similar creamy white color, which gets enthusiastic reviews here, is BM Capitol White. I'd get off white linen drapes and an off white rug, maybe with a subtle pattern. Basically various shades of whites with lots of texture. Alternatively, go with a very dark blue wall color and off white drapes, rugs, etc. are there any bedrooms that you like? If yes, can you identify their common elements? Or post them here? Another question: what of this set have you bought/are you planning to get? Everything? Personally, I would not buy the complete set, i.e. get different nightstands, for example.