Kitchen Design/Layout Help WA

[Julian Hutch]

Help is needed. This is my 2nd duplex rental I have gotten in the outskirts of Seattle. I expect to be able to get rents in the 1700-2100 range for this 3bd 1.5 bath. The top floor unit has a bit of a funky layout and the huge fireplace seems to be structural. I m looking for ways to modern the floorplan without overdoing it as I intend for this duplex to be a long term rental for our family. 

[Theresa Harris]

@Julian Hutch  Wow that is an interesting kitchen.  What room is the one with the fireplace?  Is it a dining room?  I'd leave the fireplace as a feature.  You can then open up the two rooms (take down the wall under the beam-the wall is not a supporting wall-though the beam might be, you can paint that to match the ceiling).

Now you have a big open space and can do what you want.  Add lower cabinets along the right half of the brick wall to soften it or leave it.  You can add a large island with eating on one side and storage on both sides.  Or after removing the wall under the beam, put lower cabinets there and use the counter for eating. You could also do some shelving on the outside wall that is covered in wood paneling to make a pantry.

Google images for kitchen with brick wall and you will see lots of good ideas.