Thinking of Opening Up Your Split Level Kitchen? Read this First

Does your split level home have a closed off kitchen that feels small and disconnected? Are you fed up with the lack of natural light and poor visibility between your kitchen, dining room and living room? If so, opening up the space may be a smart move.

An open concept kitchen creates a brighter, more functional environment for cooking, entertaining and family time. By removing walls and opening the space, your kitchen seamlessly blends with adjacent living areas. But a major remodel also takes careful planning.

This article will walk through everything you need to consider before taking on a split level kitchen remodel. We'll look at layout changes, structural requirements, design elements, costs and tips for hiring the contractor to bring your vision to life.

Assess Your Motivation and Goals

First, think about why you want to open up this space. Is it to improve functionality for cooking meals? Entertain large groups? Make small rooms appear larger? Enhance natural light? Whatever your main motivators, identify your top goals for the remodel. This clarity will inform all design decisions down the road.

Also consider your long term plans. Will you stay in the home for years or are you planning to sell in the near future? An open concept kitchen can greatly boost your home's value. But make sure the return on investment makes sense if you won't enjoy it long yourself.

Understand the Structural Implications

One key consideration for opening up older split level homes is that the walls are often load-bearing. This means they literally hold up the structure of floors and the roof above. You'll need to partner with a structural engineer to determine which walls in your kitchen are load-bearing vs just partitioning walls.

For load-bearing walls, the project will involve installing headers above the openings to carry the weight. You'll also need posts and beams added for support. Doing this properly is absolutely essential for safety and preserving your home's structural integrity.

While investing in these critical structural changes may add significant costs, it also protects your most important asset. Attempting to remove load-bearing walls without proper reinforcement could lead to devastating consequences down the road.

Kitchen Traffic Flow and Layout

Now comes the fun part - envisioning the new kitchen layout! Grab some graph paper and sketch your existing kitchen. Brainstorm how your family uses the space and interactions you'd like to enable. For example, does a kitchen island or banquette seating make sense?

Also think through your typical workflow cooking meals. You'll want good circulation between the sink, stove, fridge, pantries and prep zones. Having a smart, functional layout makes the kitchen more pleasurable to cook and entertain in.

Functionality and Storage Needs

Take time to honestly evaluate how your current kitchen functions. Are cabinets and storage ample or cramped? Can appliances handle your needs? Is counter space sufficient?

Opening up the walls provides opportunities to add more cabinets, pull-outs, and organizational solutions. But also consider which appliances may need upgrading for maximum convenience. Careful planning ensures your open concept kitchen will be highly functional.

Design and Style Considerations

Open Concept Aesthetic

One of the biggest benefits of opening a closed off kitchen is light and spaciousness. Removing dividing walls instantly helps rooms feel larger and airier. To enhance the open concept aesthetic:

• Incorporate high ceilings if possible
• Add abundant windows and skylights
• Use light, reflective paint colors
• Opt for seamless flooring between rooms

Minimizing walls also improves sightlines between the kitchen, dining and living room. You can easily chat with family while prepping meals. It facilitates mingling during entertaining. The continuity promotes togetherness.

Lighting Design

With an open floor plan, you'll want lighting that makes the enlarged kitchen feel bright and lively. Popular options include:

• Pendant lights over a kitchen island
• Recessed cans for ambient illumination
• Under cabinet lighting for tasks
• Dimmer switches for flexibility

Also consider adding accent lighting to highlight architectural details. Proper lighting creates a warm, welcoming vibe in your open kitchen.

Finishes and Materials

Opening up the kitchen provides a fresh slate for finishes. While tastes vary, aim for durable, low-maintenance materials that align with your lifestyle. Inspiring options include:

• Quartz or granite countertops
• Custom cabinets with smart storage solutions
• Glass cabinet fronts to showcase items
• Hardwood, tile or vinyl flooring

Visit design showrooms to get ideas for fixtures, backsplashes and hardware. Finishes should reflect your personal style while standing up to family use.

Costs and Budgeting

Executing your vision for an open concept kitchen requires a healthy budget. Total costs typically range from $30,000 to $100,000 depending on finishing choices and structural changes needed.

To understand realistic costs early, interview at least three general contractors. They can provide estimates for different layout options and finishes. Be sure to factor in any new appliances and fixtures as well.

Understand the return on investment if you plan to sell soon. Kitchen updates often add significant home value. But avoid overimproving if the local market won't support higher prices.

Finding the Right Contractor

Choosing an experienced general contractor is critical for a smooth, successful split level kitchen remodel. Here are tips for hiring the best pro:

• Interview at least three contractors
• Check reviews and references thoroughly
• Get detailed bids to compare apples to apples
• Choose someone you trust and communicates well

Avoid basing decisions on price alone. Look for in-depth proposals that instill confidence they understand your goals. This is a major investment, so take time to pick the right partner.

Handling Permits and Inspections

Any structural changes to your home require building permits. For kitchen remodels, common permits cover:

• Framing
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing
• Mechanical like HVAC

Going through the permit process ensures your remodel meets local building codes and is safe. While permits add time and modest costs, they are non-negotiable. There will also be multiple inspections required throughout the project.

Reputable contractors are used to pulling permits and scheduling inspections. But follow up to guarantee everything passes according to regulations in your area.

While undertaking a major split level kitchen remodel takes commitment, the rewards are tremendous. You can look forward to cooking and entertaining in a kitchen that truly suits your needs and lifestyle for years to come.

We covered key considerations like structural changes, layout, finishes, costs and hiring the right contractor. Use this guide to start mapping out your own open concept kitchen transformation.

With thoughtful planning and clear communication, you'll soon be enjoying all the benefits of a lighter, brighter, more connected space. Here's to never feeling closed off in your kitchen again!