Create an Open Concept By Removing Your Kitchen/Living Room Wall
An open concept floor plan, where the kitchen flows freely into the living area, has become an increasingly popular way to design homes over the past decade. This layout creates a greater sense of space and makes entertaining far easier when guests can freely mingle and cooks can still participate.
Removing the wall dividing your kitchen and living room is one of the most effective ways to create this open, airy layout in your home. However, it's an ambitious project requiring careful planning and execution.
Determine If the Wall is Load-Bearing
Before sledgehammer meets drywall, it's imperative to determine if the dividing wall between kitchen and living room is load-bearing or structural. Signs of a load-bearing wall include:
- A wall running the full height and width of a home, from roof to foundation
- Support beams attached to or resting on top of the wall
- Walls aligned above support columns or footings in basement
Review architectural drawings of your home to ascertain if the wall is structural. Consulting an architect or engineer is wise if unsure. Altering a load-bearing wall is complex; the structure above must be temporarily supported during the removal process.
Creating a Remodel Budget
Demoing a wall between the kitchen and living area runs $2,500 to $5,000 depending on factors like wall size, wiring, and non-DIY work. Create an itemized budget accounting for:
- Contractor fees if not a DIY project
- Building permits
- Disposal fees for wall debris
- New building materials (drywall, studs, etc.)
- Finishing necessities (paint, trim work)
While demolishing the wall yourself saves funds, consider abilities or seek help for safety/compliance. Prepare financially before sledgehammer strikes wall!
Electrical and Plumbing Modifications
Walls frequently house electrical wiring and plumbing lines, even if not structural. Before removing:
- Inspect outlets, switches, lights on the wall. Safely shut off power.
- Check for sink drainage, supply lines, dishwashers etc. Turn off water.
- Determine re-routing needs by an electrician/plumber.
Correctly addressing electrical and plumbing early prevents safety issues or code violations down the line.
Carefully Take Down the Wall
Once load-bearing considerations are addressed and no lingering wiring/plumbing remains, carefully start removing wall sections. Safety steps include:
- Covering floors, furniture with tarps and wearing goggles/mask
- Testing for hidden nails or utilities before prying off drywall
- Supporting remaining structural walls temporarily
- Bagging drywall debris frequently for easy cleanup
Work methodically, inspecting for unseen issues once framing exposed. Have assistance for safety/efficiency. Don't rush; demolishing a kitchen/living room wall takes precision!
Designing the New Open Concept Layout
With the wall removed, possibilities abound for utilizing the new expansive layout! Considerations include:
- Incorporating a breakfast bar or island
- Allowing space for entertaining or play areas
- Adding shelving/cabinets for storage needs
- Installing recessed lighting or pendant lights
- Refinishing floors to seamlessly connect rooms
An interior designer helps optimize layout and functionality. Draw plans marking furnishing/features. The wall removal provideschance to completely reimagine room!
Finish Drywall, Trim and Flooring
Once happy with open format, finish by:
- Installing new drywall sheets on exposed studs
- Taping/mudding seams for smooth finish
- Sanding; then painting walls/ceiling
- Refinishing floors as needed
- Adding updated trim/baseboard molding
Professionals produce quality drywall/flooring results quickly. Complete finishing touches blend the new open space beautifully.
The laborious task of removing a kitchen wall gives way to a stunning open concept. Light now streams beautifully between rooms and previously separated families can interact freely. Use this guidelines to see your once-divided space transform into a grander, more useful great room!