Remodeling Trick to Combine Separate Kitchen and Dining Rooms
Do you wish your kitchen and dining spaces flowed together more seamlessly? As beautiful as separate spaces can be, there's something special about open concept living. The right remodel can transform choppy kitchen and dining rooms into one grand, cohesive space. With some strategic remodeling, it's possible to knock down walls and unlock an airy, unbroken kitchen-dining combination.
Combining your kitchen and dining rooms creates a modern, spacious feel that makes entertaining a breeze. The open flow enables easier interaction between cooks and guests. The absence of a wall dividing the rooms also allows you to get creative with the layout. With some smart redesign, you can have the kitchen of your dreams merged with a dining area tailored to your family's needs.
Planning Your Kitchen Dining Combination Remodel
Great remodeling projects start with thoughtful planning. Before knocking down any walls, take time to think through your goals and visualize possibilities.
First, objectively evaluate how you currently use your separate kitchen and dining spaces. How would traffic flow if they were combined? Consider when you entertain and how guests interact with cooks. Envision how you’d ideally use an open concept space to suit your lifestyle.
Next, set a realistic budget based on quotes from contractors. Factor in not just the cost of structural changes like removing walls, but finishes like new floors and lighting. Design within your budget but allow for some flexibility.
Perhaps the most exciting part of planning is choosing your new kitchen-dining layout and design elements. Play with the work triangle that connects your refrigerator, stove, and sink. Decide where appliances and cabinets should go, along with kitchen islands or peninsulas. Map out an ideal dining table and seating arrangement. This upfront planning is the fun part!
Knocking Down the Wall Between Kitchen & Dining
Once you've prepped for the project, it's time for the remodeling magic to happen! Removing the wall that separates your kitchen and dining room instantly allows the two spaces to become one. But take time to do this crucial step properly.
If the dividing wall is load-bearing or contains ductwork, special structural considerations come into play. You'll also need to preserve finishes on any walls you aren't removing. Electrical outlets and plumbing lines may need relocated before knocking down the wall.
Carefully remove the wall to minimize disruption to surrounding floors and ceilings. Refinish floors to create a seamless flow between rooms. Blend trimmed ceilings so the transition feels smooth and maintains an open concept.
Designing Your New Open Concept Kitchen Dining
Once the wall is knocked down, the fun really begins! Designing your new spacious kitchen dining combination allows you to get creative.
Optimize your kitchen's storage, prep space, and high-end appliances. Mix base and upper cabinets for ample storage. Include islands or peninsulas to maximize counter space. Install your dream refrigerator, stove, and other appliances you’ve always wanted.
In your dining area, choose a table size based on your entertaining needs. Select chairs with both comfort and style in mind. Add barstools at your new kitchen island to create casual seating that connects the spaces.
Tie the whole space together with design details like counters, backsplashes, and flooring. Quartz or granite counters unify rooms visually. Add a stunning tile or glass backsplash as a focal point. Hardwood or tile floors add durability and flow underfoot.
Don’t forget lighting and decor! Make a statement with light fixtures over your kitchen island. Use pendant lights above the sink or bar area. Artwork, plants, and other accents aesthetically connect the new open concept space.
The finishing design touches will pull your entire kitchen-dining combination together into a cohesive space. Fresh paint colors give the whole open concept area a unified feel. Add rugs to define zones in a natural way. Decor and accessories complete the blend of aesthetics.
With good planning and design, your once-separate kitchen and dining rooms can transform into an inviting, seamless space. Knocking down the wall is the remodeling trick that makes this open concept magic possible. The result will be a brighter, more functional heart of your home that perfectly suits your lifestyle.