Open-Concept Kitchen Remodel in Sacramento, CA: Wall Opening, New Window & Full Kitchen Rebuild

Location: Sacramento, CA
Project type: Full kitchen remodel with structural wall opening
Services: Design, permits, demolition, framing, window replacement, plumbing, electrical, drywall, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, lighting, finish work

This Sacramento homeowner wanted a kitchen that felt connected to the rest of the home. The old kitchen was closed off from the living room by a wall, and the window sat too low to work with a standard countertop. Tenax Construction handled the project from start to finish: design plans, permits, a new structural opening and a complete new kitchen with fresh cabinets, countertops, flooring and lighting.

The Goal: Open the Kitchen to the Living Room

The homeowner’s wish list was clear:

Open up the wall between the kitchen and the living room for an open-concept layout
Fix the window so it lines up with the new countertop height
Keep the sink and refrigerator in place to keep the plumbing simple
Upgrade everything else: cabinets, counters, backsplash, flooring, lighting and electrical
Add character with a wallpapered bar area and decorative open shelves

Step 1: Design, Plans & Permits

Like every Tenax kitchen remodel, this project started with design. Our team gathered the homeowner’s requirements, developed and presented concepts, and refined every detail until the design was final.

Next, we prepared a permit-ready set of plans for the City of Sacramento building department. We filled out the paperwork, worked with the city to get the permits, and scheduled and attended every inspection. The homeowner didn’t have to deal with the city at any point.

Step 2: Demolition & Site Protection

Before demolition, we protected the surrounding surfaces. Then we removed:

Existing kitchen cabinets and countertops
Existing appliances
Existing kitchen flooring
The section of wall separating the kitchen and the living room
The existing kitchen window, so the opening could be made shorter

All debris was hauled away to an approved disposal facility, and the site was cleaned up before the next phase.

Step 3: Structural Framing for the Open Concept

Opening a wall takes real construction work. Our crew framed the new opening and installed a structural header beam across it, built to the construction plans. We also:

Reframed the window opening to its new, shorter height
Added studs, blocking and framing where needed
Framed in and sealed a former door opening

The result is a wide, clean pass-through between the kitchen and the living room, so the two spaces now read as one.

Step 4: New Window & Exterior Siding Patch

Shortening a window changes the outside of the house too. We installed a new, smaller kitchen window, then shimmed, secured and sealed it around the perimeter for weatherproofing. Outside, we patched the siding where the old opening used to be and painted the patch to match the existing siding color, so the change blends in from the street.

Step 5: Plumbing & Electrical Upgrades

Plumbing: We kept the sink and the refrigerator in their original locations, which keeps a remodel efficient. New water supply lines and drain, waste and vent piping were installed to code, and the existing gas line was capped off.

Electrical: The kitchen got a full electrical upgrade:

New dedicated circuits for the range, microwave, garbage disposal and dishwasher
Wiring rerouted out of the wall section that was removed
New and relocated outlets, including GFCI and specialty outlets
New switches, including dimmer options
4 new recessed can lights for even task lighting
1 new pendant light over the sink

Step 6: Drywall, Texture & Paint

After the framing and rough-ins, we hung new drywall on the walls and ceiling, including over the new structural beam, the reframed window opening and the closed-off doorway. Walls and ceiling were taped and textured to match the home, and the whole kitchen was painted, with full prep, priming and cleanup.

Step 7: LVP Flooring & Baseboards

We prepped the subfloor by cleaning, patching and leveling it as needed, then installed luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring. LVP is durable and water-resistant, which makes it a practical choice for Sacramento kitchens. New 5½-inch baseboards finish the floor.

Step 8: Cabinets, Countertops & Backsplash

Cabinetry: The new cabinets have solid wood doors, plywood boxes, dovetailed drawer boxes and soft-close doors and drawers. Each cabinet was leveled and secured to line up with the reframed window and the new beam. Drawer pulls are polished nickel for a clean, timeless look.

Countertops: We installed prefabricated countertops with a standard eased edge.

Backsplash: The tile backsplash was laid in a clean, standard pattern, grouted, and finished with Schluter edge trim for crisp edges.

Step 9: Fixtures, Lighting & Finishing Touches

To finish the kitchen, our team installed:

A new kitchen sink with a faucet and built-in soap dispenser
A garbage disposal
The dishwasher and other appliances, connected to utilities
The recessed lights and pendant fixtures
Wallpaper in the bar area, which gives it its own identity
Decorative open shelves, placed where the homeowner wanted them

The Result

The kitchen is now open to the living room, with a wide pass-through and a window that sits at countertop height. It has modern lighting, upgraded electrical and new finishes throughout. All of it was permitted and inspected.

Why Sacramento Homeowners Choose Tenax for Kitchen Remodels

One team from start to finish: design, permits, construction and final walkthrough
Structural work in-house: wall openings, beams, window resizing and framing
Detailed line-item estimates with no hidden costs
Licensed and insured: CSLB License #1057033
Local: serving Sacramento and the wider region from our Rocklin office

Want to see what a project like this costs? Check our financing options, including RenoFi and Acorn Finance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you remove a wall between a kitchen and living room in Sacramento?
Often, yes. Opening a wall usually means installing a structural header or beam and getting a building permit. Tenax prepares the plans, pulls the permits and coordinates the inspections with the City of Sacramento.

Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Sacramento?
Most kitchen remodels that involve framing, plumbing, electrical or window changes need permits. Tenax handles the permit process, and the homeowner pays only the government fees.

Can a kitchen window be made smaller?
Yes. We reframe the opening to the new height, install a smaller window, seal it for weatherproofing, and patch and paint the exterior siding to match.

Why keep the sink and refrigerator in the same place?
Keeping major plumbing in place makes the remodel simpler and lets more of the budget go to cabinets, finishes and features.

See More Kitchen Remodels in the Sacramento Area

Browse the full Kitchen Remodeling Portfolio or see our Complete Home Remodel projects.

Ready to Open Up Your Sacramento Kitchen?

If you’re thinking about removing a wall, changing a window or rebuilding your kitchen from the ground up, Tenax Construction can help. Call (916) 586-8845 or request your free estimate to get started.

Tenax Construction Inc. · 4205 Cincinnati Ave, Suite 300, Rocklin, CA 95765 · License #1057033

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 127 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Ольга Шпирна 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a large renovation project at our home, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. The team replaced almost all of our windows, painted the entire house and garage, completely remodeled two bathrooms, removed a wall to combine two rooms into one, and created beautiful smooth walls with molding in the new space. They also installed new carpeting throughout the house, added ceiling lighting to almost every room, replaced all of the outlets and switches, and took care of many other smaller projects along the way.

There was a lot of work involved, but the team was hardworking, responsive, and always willing to help. Communication was great throughout the entire process. We especially appreciated Nikolai, the project manager, who was very attentive and easy to work with.

We are very happy with the quality of the work and would definitely recommend this company. If we have any future renovation projects, we will absolutely reach out to them again!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Erin Alders 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Tenax Construction on multiple projects as the engineer of record, and my experience with their team has been excellent.

They consistently provide thorough and detailed information regarding each project’s specific requirements and are highly responsive throughout the design and coordination process.
Their team goes above and beyond to support well coordinated solutions and successful project outcomes.

Their approach to design and construction is practical and focused on efficient execution in the field, with a consistent standard of quality across conventional residential and high performance, high end construction.

Tenax Construction has consistently exceeded my expectations throughout our work together, and I highly recommend their team.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Constantin Burlacu 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an amazing company to work with.
Thank you for your Business.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sasha Hazelton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic company - responsive, organized and  works with your budget. We absolutely love our remodeled bathrooms. Huge shout out to our amazing designer Elizabeth, our hard working and accommodating project coordinator Nikita, and Alex who did the incredible tile work for our master shower and archway!
  
 
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   Scott Titensor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have used Tenax Construction twice to install windows in our house. Denise was our representative and contact, appreciated his quick response to questions and concerns. Denise was with us from start to finish. Highly recommend this company. They have hard working and knowledgeable employees. Look forward to using them again in the future for additional projects. Thank you
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gina Rallo-Williams 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently completed a bathroom remodel with Tenax Construction and the entire experience exceeded our expectations from start to finish. Daniel, our sales consultant, was knowledgeable, professional, and took the time to understand exactly what we wanted. He provided clear information, answered all of our questions, and made us feel confident in moving forward with the project.

Elizabeth , the designer, was absolutely fantastic. She listened carefully to our ideas and transformed them into a beautiful, functional design that perfectly matched our style. Her attention to detail and creative vision made all the difference, and we couldn't be happier with the final look of our new bathroom.

Nikita, our project manager, kept everything running smoothly throughout the remodel. He maintained excellent communication, ensured the work stayed on schedule, and addressed any concerns promptly. His professionalism and commitment to quality gave us peace of mind throughout the entire process.

The craftsmanship was outstanding, the team was respectful and professional, and the project was completed with great attention to detail. Our new bathroom is beautiful, functional, and built to a very high standard. We highly recommend this company to anyone considering a remodel. Thank you to Daniel, Elizabeth, Nikita and the entire team for delivering such an exceptional experience and a stunning finished product!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lorita Veal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tenax is a very good construction company to work with. Dennis was great thru the entire process. He’s hands on with his workers and also the homeowners making sure everything is going as it shud. He’s always available when u reach out to him and personally handles any issue that may arise. I had stucco wrk, whole house paint, doors removed and replaced. Everyone who came out was awesome. I am so pleased with the work and the customer service I am booking another appointment to have more work done on my foundation and insulation. I most definitely recommend Tenax Construction. Dennis will make sure u are provided with excellent work and the best customer service. He makes sure the customers are happy and pleased with their work & that’s important! Thank you Dennis and all the crew!!
  
 
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   Karthikeyan Selvaraj 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with Tenax Construction. They did an excellent job repainting the entire space and replacing the carpet, all within just a week—which is honestly impressive.

A special thanks to Vitalii, Philip, and the entire crew. They were extremely responsive, paid attention to every detail, and made sure all my requests were handled properly. The coordination and customer service throughout the process were top-notch.

If you’re looking for a team that delivers quality work quickly without cutting corners, I’d definitely recommend them.

Open-Concept Kitchen Remodel in Sacramento, CA: Wall Opening, New Window & Full Kitchen Rebuild

The Goal: Open the Kitchen to the Living Room

Step 1: Design, Plans & Permits

Step 2: Demolition & Site Protection

Step 3: Structural Framing for the Open Concept

Step 4: New Window & Exterior Siding Patch

Step 5: Plumbing & Electrical Upgrades

Step 6: Drywall, Texture & Paint

Step 7: LVP Flooring & Baseboards

Step 8: Cabinets, Countertops & Backsplash

Step 9: Fixtures, Lighting & Finishing Touches

The Result

Why Sacramento Homeowners Choose Tenax for Kitchen Remodels

Frequently Asked Questions

See More Kitchen Remodels in the Sacramento Area

Ready to Open Up Your Sacramento Kitchen?

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