Katie from Little House of Four pulled off a truly impressive open floor plan renovation in her small ranch-style home.
She removed four walls to connect the kitchen, dining room, and living room, dramatically improving the flow and brightness of the space.
One of the standout features is the new triple Anderson casement window, painted Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore, which adds both light and a bold contrast to the white cabinetry.
Katie also installed red oak hardwood floors in the kitchen and mudroom to match the rest of the house.
She got the cohesive look by staining them with a custom mix of Minwax Special Walnut and Dark Walnut.
The kitchen was bumped out by 10 feet, allowing for the addition of an island that, despite space constraints due to the stairs, fits perfectly and enhances functionality.
She chose not to go with a counter-depth refrigerator, prioritizing storage capacity over the streamlined look, which is a practical decision many can relate to.
Katie’s attention to detail extends to the craftsman-style columns around the now-exposed basement stairs, adding architectural interest to the open space.
She’s still awaiting custom black walnut shelves and finalizing lighting choices, but the transformation is already remarkable.
For a full walkthrough and more renovation insights, visit Katie’s blog at Little House of Four.
DIY Open Floor Plan Kitchen Renovation Summary
Materials Used:
- Kitchen cabinets (base and wall)
- Quartz countertops
- Subway tile backsplash
- Black hardware (pulls and knobs)
- Wood beam for ceiling accent
- Paint (walls, trim, and doors)
- Lighting fixtures (pendant and recessed)
- Shiplap for peninsula
- Drywall and framing supplies
- Flooring (to match or refinish existing)
Project Steps:
- Demo existing walls to create open floor plan
- Frame and finish support beam as needed
- Install drywall, patch, and paint
- Update electrical and lighting layout
- Install new cabinets and peninsula
- Add countertops and backsplash
- Attach shiplap and decorative accents
- Finish with hardware, paint touch-ups, and décor
Key DIY Tips:
- Measure carefully to ensure proper cabinet placement
- Use a laser level for backsplash and lighting alignment
- Plan electrical needs before drywall installation
- Choose timeless materials for long-lasting style
- Take your time with finishes for a professional look
What DIY’ers Are Saying About the Remodel
Functional Layout
Commenters commend the functional layout, highlighting how the removal of walls enhances natural light and creates a more spacious feel.
Thoughtful Design Choices
They value the thoughtful design choices, such as the contrasting cabinet colors and the addition of a large pantry, which improve both aesthetics and storage.
Practical Suggestions
They offer practical suggestions, recommending careful planning for lighting fixtures to ensure they complement the new open space.
These insights reflect a shared enthusiasm for the project’s transformation and provide helpful tips for others considering similar renovations.