I would go for the separate can sized pots because then they can be put in multiple places. Unless you know where their going to be putting the plants a certain sized box/basket might not fit. A little tip, make sure the person you gift it to will really appreciate it. I had a friend ask me to make her one for her birthday, then I spent the next few weeks watching it slowly die from neglect, I even told her how to care for it she just didn't want to bother.

The box/mantle hoods definitely appeal to me! That's my first choice. I've gotten two quotes from both cabinet places I've been looking at. Midrange cabinetry - first is Wellborn. The second is a local place. Both have quoted about $3500 for EVERYTHING...the hood, blower/insert. I had asked them what a chimney would be vs. a wood hood (all costs). The chimney would be around $1700ish vs. the $3500 for the box hood/blower insert. I think my original cabinet guy worded it wrong when he said a $3k difference. I'm going to a third place Tuesday morning that I went to way way back before we'd started building when I'd had only preliminary ideas. They carry Cardell which is what we had in our last house. I was very happy with those cabinets. I want to see where they come in now that I'm set with how I want things to be. Yes, you're right about the paint. I was thinking that it would show if it was a little off since it was right there next to the cabinets. But I'm sure they could match it closely enough.

It looks like an old cover plate that was covered by a newer one. I'd turn off the breaker (or pull the fuse) and then pry it off. The reason for killing the power first is that the switch and receptacle might come with it and there's a small chance of a short circuit occurring as you do so.

I would never want the kitchen and living room open to each other, and have my guests look at my dirty dishes and messy kitchen, when I am cooking them a meal. I do know a couple people that have bought houses, with that already done, and one is in the process of putting the wall back, and the other one is talking about hiring someone to put it back in her house too.