CAD

Taking a break from demolition, I took some time to work on my CAD model of the house.  For all my CAD work, I've been using Google SketchUp, which is a totally awesome free download.

First we have a model of the house before my desired modifications.

 Here we have the house after the modifications. 

The general layout of the property is easier to see from overhead.  Here's a view of just the house as it now stands. 

Notable changes include replacing the chimney with a bay window, removing the internal walls in the kitchen area, and building a small addition in the area behind the garage.  The addition connects the house and garage directly through a utility room, as well as increasing the size of the master bathroom and adding some closet space for the master bedroom.

To get an idea of how open the new floorplan would look, here's a view from inside the planned kitchen.  Just pretend like there are actual walls where you see framing.

To get to this point, I need that shear wall removed.  I consulted with a structural engineer, who is currently drawing up some plans to give me a better idea of what my options are.  It won't be cheap, but it's one of those things it makes sense to do sooner rather than later.