This was a load bearing wall basically runs the length of the house and was the first thing to be considered before starting this major kitchen improvement. It was a support type of wall, not holding the entire weight from above. The perpendicular second floor joists run the whole width of the home from one brick exterior wall to the opposite with no break.
kitchen improvement - wall removal
In the above picture you can clearly see the ‘drop down’ 2×4 framed ceiling that was installed in the cooking area of the kitchen. Besides making it easier to install recessed can lights, and maybe for the “look” of the cabintes going to the ceiling, I’m not quite sure why this was done. I do know this: it’s coming out! 10 foot ceilings will be had all about this new kitchen.
kitchen improvement - above the "drop ceiling"
above the drop/false ceiling
where cabinets met the dlowered ceiling
uneven floor between seating & cooking area
A beam ran along the floor, as the footer to the removed wall, which was left for some reason. This caused the two ares to have two different floor levels witha threshold smoothing the way from one to another. Here you can see the tile butted up against this beam, with a layer of sub and then the old original wood floors below.
Beginning the kitchen improvement: Tear Down That Wall!
New support header installed…
Beginning the kitchen improvement: Tear Down That Wall!
new support beam
The effect that removing a wall can have on a room is simply incredible! The space feels so big and open. New floor, cabinets, countertops, light fixtures, etc…are eagerly anticipated!
