Explore 99+ Impressive Remove Sunken Living Room With Many New Styles

If you're tired of feeling like you're living in a pit, it may be time to remove that sunken living room. While these trendy designs were popular in the 1960s and 1970s, they can make a space feel closed off and dated in today's modern homes. But don't worry, with a little bit of planning and some elbow grease, you can transform your sunken living room into a more open and spacious area. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to remove a sunken living room and create a whole new look for your home.

The first step to removing a sunken living room is to determine the scope of the project. Some sunken living rooms are simply a few inches below the rest of the floor, while others may be several feet deep. The process will vary depending on the depth of your sunken living room, but the overall steps are the same.

Step 1: Clear out the room. Remove all furniture, decor, and any other items from the living room.

Step 2: Remove flooring. Use a pry bar to remove the flooring in the sunken living room. This may include carpet, tile, or hardwood. If the flooring is glued down, you may need to use a heat gun to soften the adhesive before prying it up.

Step 3: Remove walls. If your sunken living room is surrounded by walls, you will need to remove them. Use a hammer and pry bar to carefully take down the walls, being cautious of any electrical or plumbing that may be hidden behind them.

Step 4: Fill in the hole. Once the walls are removed, you will be left with a hole in the floor. Use cement or a self-leveling compound to fill in the hole and create a smooth, even surface.

Step 5: Refinish the floor. Once the hole is filled and dry, you can refinish the floor to match the rest of the room. This may involve sanding, staining, or painting, depending on the type of flooring you have.

Step 6: Decorate. With the sunken living room removed, you now have a blank canvas to work with. Add furniture, decor, and other personal touches to create a more open and inviting space.

Before you dive into removing your sunken living room, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Permits: Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain permits before starting this project. Check with your local building authority to see if any permits are required.

Structural Considerations: If your sunken living room is a few feet deep, it may be necessary to consult with a professional contractor or engineer to ensure the removal does not compromise the structural integrity of your home.

Cost: The cost of removing a sunken living room will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. It is recommended to get quotes from multiple contractors before making a decision.

As with any home renovation project, there are pros and cons to removing a sunken living room.

Pros:

While it is possible to remove a sunken living room on your own, it is a big undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you along the way.

Tip 1: Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when removing walls and flooring.

Tip 2: Use a level to ensure the floor is even before filling in the hole.

Tip 3: If you come across any unexpected electrical or plumbing, consult with a professional before proceeding.

The cost of removing a sunken living room will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as your location and the contractor you choose. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 for this type of renovation.

However, keep in mind that removing a sunken living room can also increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Once your sunken living room is removed, you will be left with a more open and spacious area. Take advantage of this new space by incorporating some of these design ideas:

Still not sure if removing your sunken living room is the right choice for you? Take a look at these stunning before and after transformations for some inspiration.

Before:

Deciding whether to hire a professional or tackle the project on your own depends on your level of experience and the complexity of the project. In general, hiring a professional can save you time, stress, and ensure the job is done correctly. However, if you have experience with home renovations and feel confident in your abilities, DIY may be a cost-effective option.

When removing a sunken living room, it's important to consider how you will transition from the lower level to the rest of the room. Here are a few flooring options to create a seamless transition: