The columns look dated to me, but you will need to determine IF they can be taken down as they may be structural. And then I support your other decisions to paint the cabinets and upgrade the counter tops.

I guess I should add, the columns are in fact load bearing. Which is why my husband doesn’t want to take them down. It is possible to remove them and add beams, just costly. I’m really just curious to see if others think it’s worh the cost, or will the look really not change that much... Also, I am considering the idea of doing white quartz counters and not painting the cabinets

Hi Lauren,

Personally, not a fan of your columns. Sorry.

The crown molding on the top of the columns, can you take that off, paint it, or something?

Are you going to put in white LED lightbulbs?

The only way to determine your options is to have the drywall removed from the ceiling bulkheads and columns and have a Structural Engineer in to evaluate the current structure. If the current drop beams are sufficiently sized and constructed you may be able to eliminate the intermediate columns, the outer corner one would have to remain. If the current drop beams are not suitable then it may be possible to beef them up. If that is not possible then they would need to be replaced. In all cases you will most likely still need the outer corner post/column.

I see what you're saying. What ever aren't load bearing, I'd think removing what's not, would look nicer. They seem to cut off the space in an obtrusive way to me.

The 6 burner stove... I'm guessing you mean a built in/ drop in? We have one. Thought it was the best thing ever. Then used it once. I highly suggest getting a drop in that is easy to clean. Ours has edges that sink below counter level, what seems to be pretty standard. But it makes it seriously hard to clean. Can't just wipe out and off. Have to some how lift out the grime. Plus grime gets stuck in that weird lip/ edge. IMPOSSIBLE to get clean properly. I've tried. It's an old model, but it's Whirlpool Gold. Do not recommend it.

We had a stove similar to your current one and it was a breeze. Now, we barely clean it, I know gross!, but it's SUCH a hassle. Honestly it is. Even my husband says that. He rarely agrees with my grumbles on these matters. 6 burner, yes, love it. Just be picky on what you get IMO.

Love your kitchen/ living room flow through through. Nice layout. :)