Would I be able to convert this kitchen to an open design?

Question

For future tenant turnovers, I've been thinking of converting these kitchens to a modern open design. One problem is that space is rather limited. Currently, the space for the fridge is against the left wall in the picture below. I would like to knock down this left wall and place an island, but where would the fridge go? Any ideas on how I can convert this space to something more beautiful?

Thanks!

Valerie Hiscoe · Answer

Use shellac based primer if you paint the cabinets (am I allowed to say Zinsser brand?)

Valerie Hiscoe · Answer

The wall may or may not be a load bearing wall but it's definitely housing your electrical for the stove, fan and fridge, as well as the fan's venting. The divider between the stove and fridge may be as well.  If it's not, I'd take that out (the divider) and then open up the wall just to the stove. You'd receive a lot more light (it looks like natural light streaming by the stairs) which changes things a lot. An actual island might be tricky but you could go to the big box store and get a 39" high wall cabinet (wall cabinets are 12"" deep whereas base cabinets are usually 24" deep and 30" tall) and pop on a pre-cut countertop to create an overhang for some stools.  Put the whole thing on wheels because that way you can get it wide enough to make a difference but let the tenants decide which direction to face It to be the most useful.

But you asked about making the space more attractive so I'd start with cheaper easier things that will give you some of the brightening you need. Paint the cabinets. Pale gray is modern and white is the classic standby. Unless you're having them sprayed, get the paint additive that smoothes out brush strokes. Definitely change the light, and you'd be surprised how inexpensively you can add under-counter lighting as well, which would go a long way to breaking up the gloom. The wall behind the sink needs something too, even if it's just a pop of colour. If you don't end up taking away any wall, you could use the wall cabinet and countertop combo beside the stove with mirror behind it for a built-in eating area to make it somewhat useful.  Maybe lose those little upper cabinets there and add either a light (extend the electricity from the fan - even a plug-in hanging light from Ikea or something is fine) or put in an open shelf or two for a more modern look.

Hope there's an idea or two you can use. I'm in a C class area myself but I raised my rents from $425 to $615 with just a little decor and design. Kitchens and baths matter I think. Good luck.

Pat L. · Answer

Yes you need to show pics esp the clearance behind the wall(s). Also is that door to the right a pantry or access door ??? Is the wall to the right necessary ???

I have opened up a lot of kitchens & the last one allowed me to push the fridge through a wall (into the mudroom) to make it counter depth & thus allow adequate (sitting) clearance around a large 7x4 granite island.

The kitchen I am doing now is going to be 23x12 without any upper cabinets except for those above the fridge & double oven !!!

Eric X. · Answer

@THANG BUI

Typically unless the kitchen is a lot worse than other kitchens in the area, i would not do that for a rental.  Just doesn't provide that much added value.

For a flip, I would absolutely open it up if possible.  Issue with opening it up is that you would lose a lot cabinet space  and I'm not sure if that space is big enough for a good sized island.  Also where would the fridge/stove go?

We probably need more pictures since we don't have all the angles.  Also it would depend if there are any load bearing beams inside the walls.

But for a rental...it looks fine. I would personally leave it as is for a rental.