Sorry not sure what wall you are thinking of removing.If it is the wall between the kichen and the living space this will cost buckets of money as that is a supporting wall as for dead space I think that will depend on how you layout the room I don’t get the space at the bottom left that is maked zone infact if i was going to remove a wall it would be that wall between the Zone and LR you need to be more specific as to waht you want to do.

The open space shown (in the center between the living and dining/kitchen) is currently a wall. Sorry...that was not clear on the original post.

My husband and dad are experienced builders so cost to remove the center wall and add the necessary header support would be less than if we had to contract it out.

I have played around with the layout a little more and came up with this.

The "zone" room is utility. I just haven't put in the washer/dryer images.

Just looking for design ideas for a large rectangle living space. Thanks!

The problem with your second image with the sectional is that the entry spills directly into the living area. It would be better to put the TV and seating at the other end and use the end by the entry for another function.

I don't see a coat closet. Agree with Grover, reverse functions. Possibly add a nice computer/ built in desk area opposite LR? Or reading area. Do you need a full wall between LR and DR? How about a half wall with book shelves? Imagine all that room during the holidays.

I like your second floor plan furniture arrangement better, but I'd re-locate the entry door between the sitting areas, thereby establishing an "entry" area that you could walk through to the kitchen/dining area. It would more clearly define the living room and office/sitting areas.

Rod - do you mean moving the front door? I agree the living would be more symmetrical if the entry was in the middle but I'm not sure if we want to undertake that big of a structural change. Thanks for your comment!

Yup, second arrangement looks great.

Yes, I suggested moving the door. Since I can't see the exterior of the house I can't tell how feasible that would be. Out here in California, most MCM homes are constructed of wood and/or stucco, so moving a door isn't as daunting as if the home were mad of brick.