Well we are knee-deep in kitchen renovations and it is a long, slow process. We have fully gutted the kitchen and dining room which will turn into one giant kitchen space. I have no idea where the dining room table will go (and will be having one made to fit whatever space I decide on) and have started the permitting process. We had to have the entire space re-wired as the electrical work was a hot mess – it’s a miracle this house didn’t burn down with all of the messed up work that had been done – but knowing that everything will be 100% right and up to code and safe is worth the time living in this.

The biggest change so far was the installation of the header to open the wall space between the kitchen and great room. What was a standard 3′ door is now an 11′ behemoth opening that completely changes the look of the space. And here is where I would say always, always, always get more than 1 quote for work you are having done. The first guy we found quoted us 2 days and more than $2000 to install the header and we had already purchased all of the materials ourselves. The second company quoted us 1 day and $500, so guess who we went with (yes, they were both licensed and insured). The result is magnificent and I can’t wait for the rest that is to come.

Old View from the front door (see that tiny little opening on the left?)

New view from the front door. Can you say “yowza open concept”?

Next up, hardwood repair and fill-in, HVAC vents relocated, gas line relocated, plumbing relocated and then (fingers crossed) we get permitted and can start to put drywall up. Our next “fun” project will be the wall o’ backsplash which will span the entire sink wall and installing the open shelving. Cabinets start to be installed on April 19th and I am counting the days. I. Cannot. Wait.