How to Remodel Living, Dining & Kitchen Areas Into One Area

Figure out which walls are load-bearing. Plan to open these walls and reinforce framing with a header and side support columns. Create a time frame to do this, so you can redirect family traffic during the construction phase.

Draw a new floor plan and develop an overall design. Create the new space with a bar built between the kitchen and living area to hide the dishwasher, for example. Plan to fit a sectional sofa between the kitchen and living space as another option. Purchase new appliances and cabinets to enhance the kitchen area. Figure out where the dining table and other furniture will fit.

Plan the construction phases. Hang plastic sheeting over doorways to the rest of the house to keep drywall dust under control. Take down non-load-bearing walls and reinforce load-bearing walls. Reinstall drywall and wood trim to create a seamless look with the rest of the area. Add recessed light to ceiling areas and new light fixtures.

Install cabinets, floor-to-ceiling support columns and appliances. Build the space according to the design, and use colors for all components that work well with everything in the space. Use creative touches such as a dividing wall of glass blocks, if desired. Add a fixed row of French doors to provide a barrier that will allow plenty of light to come through.

Lay flooring last. Finish up all building and painting before adding hardwood or tile. Use a uniform flooring through the open space to make it appear bigger. Add furniture or rearrange furniture to create a living-dining space that flows together. Use harmonious furniture colors for the living-dining space such as a dining table, coffee table and end tables all finished in dark walnut.