I would let it go. It blocks the fabulous beams from either direction and really does close down the open feel of the room.

OUT!!!!

I would remove it also. It appears outdated.

Take it down.

Remove it

GONE!

It needs to go...

The partitioning of space is a nice mid-century touch in your kitchen. Could you not modify the peninsula (also a mid-century element) to achieve more openness? [https://www.houzz.com/photos/ploughed-paddock-midcentury-kitchen-phvw-vp~38363178[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/ploughed-paddock-midcentury-kitchen-phvw-vp~38363178)

I would remove the upper portion but leave the bottom portion and use it like a regular kitchen cabinet! It's a great place to put food or plates when eating in the dining room.

One thing that is acceptable in living in a MCM home is updating the kitchen & baths so they better fit our lives they way we live them now. Patricia Colwell has shown an excellent example of updating but still keeping the vibe of the 50's style.

It should go. In theory it's great, but better ways to give a nod to the architectural style.

Keep it. Every house needs something where the guests can ask, "What the hell is that?"

HI -- It could and should go . Your not doing an historical restoration and it isn't very attractive and not worth saving . You have to live for today and have kitchens and bathrooms for your time . As long as the house mostly retains it's character of the time then it's fine .

I'd let it go.

Let it go!

Now is the time, as it will allow you to design the kitchen based on your needs and what is more aesthetically pleasing. If you change your mind down the road - which you probably will when you see your brand new kitchen and the contrast, then you have to deal with the floor. Create a space that takes advantage of its maximum usage and you can still keep a MCM look.

Looks brighter already !

Wow..what a positive difference. What are you plans for the base/counter?

Our son has moved into 2 houses with this feature and those "head bumpers" are the first thing to go! It really opens up the space.