Open concept kitchen and living room spaces are highly requested in the world of home renovation. Whether you’re cooking dinner while chatting with family or entertaining guests, open concept layouts remove barriers and can completely change the look, feel, and function of your home—in a good way! Of course, before you start swinging a sledgehammer, it’s worth understanding the real scope of the benefits, possible drawbacks, and what’s involved in completing this kind of remodel work—especially if you’re living in or around Skokie or Chicago.
Why Open Concept Works
1. It gives you more space (even if it’s the same square footage).
One of the biggest reasons homeowners go open concept is the feeling of space. Taking down walls between your kitchen and living area doesn’t actually add square footage, but it feels like it does. Without those visual barriers, the whole area feels lighter, bigger, and more breathable.
This is especially useful in older homes or apartments common in Skokie, where rooms can feel tight or closed off. An open layout can modernize the feel of the entire home without needing an addition.
2. It’s better for hosting and family life.
Whether you’re cooking dinner for the family or hosting friends, open layouts make it easier to stay part of the conversation. You’re not stuck behind a wall while the action is happening in the other room. This kind of setup makes everyday life feel more connected.
3. You can get more natural light.
Without walls blocking windows, light can travel more freely throughout the space. It’s a simple design shift that often makes a big visual impact. Brighter homes don’t just look better—they feel better to live in, especially in Chicago winters when daylight is precious.
Things to Consider Before Going Open Concept
Open concept isn’t perfect for everyone. There are some challenges that come with tearing down walls:
1. Noise carries.
In an open space, the sound of dishes clanking or a running dishwasher can travel straight to the living area. If you like peace and quiet—or if you’re working from home—this might get old fast. You can invest in quieter appliances and acoustic treatments, but know that sound management is part of the trade-off.
2. There’s less privacy.
No walls means fewer spots to retreat for alone time. This can be tough if you have kids, roommates, or work-from-home needs. Some homeowners add partial walls, sliding doors, or even tall bookshelves to create visual separation while keeping the space open.
3. Structural work can get complicated.
You can’t just tear down any wall. Some are load-bearing, meaning they support the weight of the house. If that’s the case, you’ll need a beam or other reinforcement. There may also be electrical, HVAC, or plumbing to reroute. These factors can increase the overall cost of a kitchen remodel. They also require some serious expertise. That’s why bringing in a contractor or structural engineer early is essential.
Popular Open Concept Kitchen Living Room Ideas
Kitchen Islands as the centerpiece
A large island can serve as the heart of the space. It’s a prep area, a spot for meals, and a natural gathering place. Add bar stools for casual dining and pendant lights for style and function.
Keep the Color Flow Consistent
Smart Furniture Layout
Built-In Storage is Your Friend
Remodeling a Galley Kitchen into an Open Concept Space
Galley kitchens—long, narrow, and usually enclosed—are common in older homes in Skokie and parts of Chicago. They’re functional, but not ideal for today’s lifestyles. If you want to open up a galley kitchen, here’s how it typically goes:
Step 1: Know which walls can go.
Before doing anything else, figure out which walls you can remove safely. You’ll need to know what’s structural and what’s not. Hire a pro for this—you don’t want to guess wrong.
Step 2: Plan the new layout.
Once you know what’s possible, sketch out a layout. Where will the fridge, sink, and stove go? How will traffic flow? This is also when you decide if you’re adding an island or breakfast bar.
Step 3: Do the demo and build-out.
With a solid plan and professional help, it’s time to do the work. This includes demolition, installing supports if needed, and reconfiguring plumbing and electrical. After that, it’s all about finishes—flooring, cabinets, lighting, and so on.
Chicago and Skokie Home Considerations
Urban Homes and Natural Light
Energy Efficiency
Chicago winters are no joke. And a larger, combined space often requires more energy to heat (or cool) evenly—especially if ceilings are higher or there’s more window area. Without walls to contain air, HVAC systems work harder to maintain a consistent temperature throughout. So, when you are considering kitchen remodeling in Skokie, be sure to think about insulation and energy-efficient windows and appliances.
Navigating Permits
In both Skokie and Chicago, remodeling often requires permits—especially if you’re removing structural walls or moving plumbing or electrical. Work with a trustworthy contractor who knows local building codes and can manage the permit process for you.
Hiring a General Contractor in Skokie, IL
Having the right general contractor makes all the difference. Look for someone with experience remodeling kitchens and open concepts specifically. Ask to see past projects, read reviews, and check references.
Good contractors don’t just build—they help guide decisions, manage timelines, and keep the work on budget. Communication is key. Make sure expectations are clear before work begins, and stay in touch throughout the process. A reliable contractor will welcome your questions and keep you in the loop.
Final Thoughts
Open concept kitchen and living spaces offer real lifestyle benefits—more light, better flow, and easier connection with family and guests. But they’re not a fit for every home or homeowner. Think through the practicalities like noise, privacy, and the work involved. If it still feels like the right choice, the result can be a stunning, functional space that adds value to your home and improves the way you live in it.
Need help getting started? If you’re ready to explore an open concept remodel in Skokie or the greater Chicago area, contact us today. A short consultation can give you insight into what’s possible in your home—and what kind of budget and timeline to expect.
