Make sure that the wall separating the LR and the kitchen isn't a load-bearing wall. It might be necessary in some form.

That will be quite a transformation.

Do you have a budget in mind?

Looks like you may be planning to add an island where the wall is now.

One thing that always helps the look of any kitchen is to have a counter depth refrigerator or at least a compartment meant to house a deeper model. When the deep fridge juts out into the room beyond the cabinets it affects the look of the otherwise nice kitchen.

Leelee, Thank you for your suggestion. I had not planned on purchasing new appliances so my refrigerator and stove will remain. My cabinets will be custom built. I can make them as deep as my stove about 27", but not much deeper. The refrigerator is 33" leaving some space for plug clearance.

My thought was to put cookie sheets and cutting boards above the refrigerator.

Consider putting microwave in island and adding a vent above range for that more open look. I LOVE my big deep drawers for pots/pans and small appliances-they could go in your island..Built in trash? Post picture of dining and living room..

Hi Jdgail, Thank you for your input. I would love to see the deep drawer for pots and pans you used. Do you have pics?

The depth of bottom cabinets/counters is almost always 24". There must be a good reason for that.

You might look at ways to enclose the fridge to make it look more "built-in" and less like it's jutting out farther than it should be.

Love the drawer pics from jdgail--these are so nice and easy to use.

The cabinets you have now go to the ceiling. That's a great way to use all space. Store seasonal items on the very top.

Your cabinet maker should be offering you all kinds of ideas and suggestions.

While configuring your new kitchen consider doing both of these:

Under cabinet lighting and under cabinet electrical outlets. Then your new backsplash won't have those unsightly outlets. What a difference that makes.

Great ideas from all above!

The island where the wall is currently will house a nice island. If space allows consider placing 12" deep cabinets on the back side of the island. This allows for wonderful storage as well as affording a wider island. I agree with putting the microwave in the island, removing from the line of sight. Enclosing the fridge will make it appear to be built in and allow for a large full depth cabinet above for trays and platters. Drawers on either side of the range accommodate many pots and pans and make for much easier access and organization. Place as many drawer bases throughout the kitchen as you are able.

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Yes, I'm considering this as I will be loosing the current storage above future island area. Thank you for sending photos, beautiful kitchen.