Encasting Washer and Dryer in Kitchen

[Katie West]

Hi everyone!  So, this question is actually for my personal home, but it will become a rental within the next 3 years.  The laundry is in the kitchen to the side.  There are cabinets hung on top of it.  My idea is to encase the washer/dryer and put a countertop over it to provide additional prep area/storage. 

Has anyone else done this?  Is there a high level of difficulty to where I would need to hire someone?  Or could I DIY it?  And do you think it would be a good plan to add a little value to the home?

[Jim Adrian]

@Katie West

The top should be removable to get access to the hoses and dry duct it possible.  Its nice to be able to look back behind the units to see if there is a problem or hook up the hoses.