Removing one of the original kitchen walls created a much larger and more comfortable living room and allowed us to relocate the kitchen along the back of the house. The open floorplan is great for family living. We installed a dropped beam to support the load of the original wall. Introducing 3 faux beams creates a sense of unity for the enlarged living room ceiling. We replaced the small original kitchen window with a larger unit to match the two existing living room windows. The windows align with the bookcases and are highlighted with wall sconces above, create a pleasing symmetry along the wall. A flat screen TV mounted above the bookcases blends in as framed art. The fireplace refresh includes paint and new hearth tile in colors that echo the kitchen hues. Built-in cabinets replace the coat closet we removed. The door to the basement was removed to create a better connection.