Can that wall be removed between the kitchen and laundry area? I would remove that wall...continue cabinets from kitchen and add a oversized island..

Great idea! I think it's a load bearing wall, but I'll ask to be certain! Thanks so much for replying.

Maybe if load bearing...you could push post back and somehow work it into the cabinets along that wall and paint it all the same..might add a great touch to the kitchen....work in the same trim used on post for island trim or legs.

That looks like the exterior wall of the house, it's very thick.

It is load bearing. It was an addition to the house. We can't swap rooms, too expensive and the kitchen is now adjacent to dining room. Fori, I like the idea of keeping the laundry room upstairs. What about a sliding door to cover the washer and dryer? When the old units die we can get stackables?

If the washer and dryer were front loading, you could extend the counter over the top and the space would look so much nicer. I don't think you would need to hide the WD behind a door then. You could also do the stacking and that could look nice as well. What about adding a small useful but pretty sink (not a utility tub)? Could come in handy for washing garden produce, hosting parties, etc.

Also, if you recessed the plumbing into the wall, all would look so much nicer.

I would hide the washer and dryer inside cabinets. But I like having my washer & dryer on the same level as I live in. I hated lugging my clothes up and down stairs.

Thank you Aurora and Catt. We're definitely going to keep the washer and dryer upstairs! I'm not sure we can recess the plumbing with our budget. It's a brick home. I'll check though. The space has a back door (in pic) that leads to the backyard, so I guess we could identify this as a mudroom/laundry room with some adjustments. We are replacing the countertop with the same granite that's going in the kitchen remodel for continuity. You've all been so helpful! I sincerely appreciate everyone's input!