i Would typically agree, but our living room is not very large and I am concerned it would feel quite cramped if we pushed the couch forward away from the wall. How far is normally suggested to push it forward away from the wall for that not to look weird? Our living room is 13.5 feet long that direction.

Hmmm I see, I missed the part about the couch extending past where the was would have been if removed. I’m not sure that’s a big issue given your layout constraints, but it’s hard to picture in my head with the pics you posted. Hopefully one of the pros that usually chimes in on layouts will see this and give you better feedback, but you might want to add a sketch of the rooms with dimensions/measurements to this - or repost and specifically ask for layout advice. It might get more visibility that way.

We removed a pony wall in between our dining room/kitchen area and it was truly the best decision and opened everything up so much. I say do it. You will be happy you did.

After removing the half wall did your sofa extend past the existing full wall In your living room? Would love your suggestions if you have a similar layout in your home. I have attached a diagram of our downstairs layout.

I still think it is better than a wall! You can always bring it out a little more into the room than it is now and put a sofa table behind it?

I'd remove the wall and pull the sectional out a bit. Is the sectional a long term piece? consider your future furnishings want list too.

It should GO!

If you want to remove it, you should rethink the placement of the tv to the other side of the fireplace.

imo, I think the pony wall should go.

Oaktonmom that is a good point, but unfortunately as mentioned in my original post, the other wall opposite the fireplace is not wide enough to put a tv on, that is part of the dilemma with this space.

You will lose an electrical outlet, if that matters.

Move the TV closer to the fireplace and pull the sectional out about 6". That's all you really need.

Is there any way to remove the wall up to where the sofa ends and finish it to look acceptable?

I can’t tell if you have a sectional or a sofa and loveseat. If it’s the latter you coul flip the sofa and loveseat.

Oaktonmom, we have a sectional

Don't remove just part of the wall. Then if you ever change your furniture, you'll be stuck with an odd wall again. Either remove it all or leave it.

We would remove the pony wall. There doesn't seem to be any use for it, and you will have a more open feeling in the space.