An open concept raised ranch kitchen remodel is all about turning that chopped-up split-level main floor into one bright, easy-flowing space.
Run a Wood Ceiling Accent Across the New Open Area
If you can’t vault the ceiling in a raised ranch, I’ve had great results adding a wood plank ceiling strip that runs from kitchen toward living. In an open concept remodel, it visually “stitches” the spaces together and adds that farmhouse warmth fast.
Useful items to consider:
- Tongue and Groove Wood Planking: Create a seamless, warm ceiling aesthetic that connects your rooms with these easy-to-install interlocking wood planks.
- Recessed LED Ceiling Lights: Illuminate your new wood accent ceiling effectively with slim, energy-efficient recessed lights that install cleanly into planks.
- Matte Wood Finish or Stain: Protect your ceiling planks while enhancing the natural grain with a durable, low-sheen finish for authentic warmth.
Remove the Kitchen Wall and Add a Wood-Wrapped Beam
In almost every open concept raised ranch kitchen I’ve worked on, removing the dividing wall is the biggest “why didn’t we do this sooner” moment. When a load-bearing beam is needed, I like wrapping it in stained wood so it looks intentional instead of purely structural.
Items that may come in handy:
- Faux Wood Beam Corbels: Add architectural interest to your support posts by installing decorative corbels that mimic the look of handcrafted timber.
- Rich Wood Stain and Sealer: Achieve that custom, rustic finish on your support beams with a high-quality stain that enhances natural grain patterns.
- Box Beam Wrap Kits: Cover unsightly drywall or steel supports easily using a faux wood box beam kit for an instant rustic upgrade.
Center a Big Island as the Main Hub
A generous kitchen island is what makes an open concept feel grounded, and I’ve seen it instantly fix that floating feeling raised ranch layouts can get. I always plan seating on the living-room side so you can cook and still be part of the conversation.
Might be a good match:
- Set of Woven Counter Stools: Add warmth and functional seating to your island with stools that invite guests to gather comfortably.
- Textured Pendant Light Fixture: Define your kitchen’s focal point hanging natural, textured pendants that create a grounded and cozy atmosphere.
- Large Ceramic Centerpiece Vase: Style your new counter space effortlessly with a statement vase that brings height and organic texture.
Build the Support Column Into the Island
So many raised ranch openings reveal a post, and I’ve had great luck turning that “problem” into a feature by boxing it into the island. One of my favorite moves is adding a wood base and slim shelves so the column looks custom, not leftover.
You might like:
- Decorative Dried Branches: Add height and texture to your island vase, creating an elegant focal point that softens structural lines.
- Ceramic Stoneware Bowls: Style your new open shelves with organic, neutral bowls that perfectly balance function and beautiful display.
- Large Minimalist Vase: Anchor your island’s design with a substantial, sculptural vase that complements the wood tones beautifully.
Run Continuous Hardwood Flooring Through Every Zone
When I remodel an open concept raised ranch kitchen, I push for hardwood flooring (or a close look-alike) to run through kitchen, dining, and living so it reads like one big room. I’ve watched that single change make tight split-level spaces feel twice as open.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Engineered White Oak Flooring Planks: Create a unified look with durable engineered hardwood that connects your kitchen and living areas seamlessly.
- Felt Furniture Pads: Protect your beautiful new continuous flooring from scratches and scuffs under dining chairs and heavy furniture.
- Hardwood Floor Cleaner Kit: Keep your extensive new hardwood floors looking pristine and streak-free with a specialized microfiber mop system.
Go Two-Tone With a Wood Island
I love using light perimeter cabinets with a contrasting wood island because it gives your open concept layout a clear focal point. In raised ranch remodels, that contrast helps the kitchen feel “anchored” while the rest of the space stays airy.
A few choices to try:
- Textured Ceramic Vase: Add height and texture to your island centerpiece with a durable vase that complements natural wood tones.
- Neutral Table Runner: Soften the look of your wood countertop while protecting the surface with a stylish, neutral fabric runner.
- Dried Pampas Grass Decor: Bring an organic, airy feel to your kitchen remodel with low-maintenance stems that act as a focal point.
Open Up the Stair Half-Wall With a Slat Railing
The staircase is a signature of the raised ranch, and I’ve replaced bulky half-walls with a simple wood slat railing to keep safety but improve sightlines. It’s one of those changes that makes an open concept kitchen feel instantly lighter.
Possibly handy products:
- Square Wood Baluster Set: Create a clean, modern look by replacing outdated spindles with these simple square wood balusters.
- Unfinished Oak Newel Post: Anchor your new railing system with a sturdy, solid wood newel post ready for staining.
- Wood Stain and Polyurethane: Match your new railing to your existing floors with a high-quality, durable wood stain finish.
Lose the Soffits and Add Simple Ceiling Trim
In older raised ranch kitchens, soffits can make the ceiling feel lower, and I’ve seen huge payoff when they’re removed (or cleaned up) to create an unbroken line. If they have to stay, I’ve trimmed them in wood to match the cabinets so the open concept reads smoother.
Products that could assist:
- Oak Wood Veneer Sheets: Cover existing soffits with real oak veneer sheets to create warmth and match your custom wooden cabinetry.
- Recessed Cabinet Lighting Kits: Install small puck lights into your new wood trim to add practical task lighting and ambiance.
- White Cabinet Crown Molding: Finish the top of your white cabinetry neatly where it meets the new wood soffit treatment.
Layer Lighting Across the Open Floor Plan
Because many raised ranch kitchens run a bit dim, I always mix recessed lighting, under-cabinet task lights, and pendants over the island. In my projects, good lighting is what makes an open concept kitchen feel cozy instead of cavernous at night.
Some ideas to consider:
- Wooden Pendant Light Fixtures: Add warmth to your kitchen island with natural wood textures that create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.
- Vintage Edison LED Light Bulbs: Enhance the style of open fixtures with warm-glowing bulbs that offer energy efficiency and vintage charm.
- Jute Rope Pendant Light Cord Kit: Customize your lighting setup easily with texture-rich hanging cords that complement rustic or farmhouse décor.
Create a Clean Perimeter With a Tall Pantry Wall
When you open up a raised ranch kitchen, you often lose wall space you used for storage, so I like adding a dedicated pantry wall on the perimeter. I’ve built pantry cabinets to the ceiling and it keeps the new open concept room from looking cluttered.
Check these products out:
- Freestanding Tall Pantry Cabinet: Maximize your vertical storage and declutter your open kitchen with a stylish, tall freestanding pantry cabinet.
- Rattan or Cane Webbing Storage Furniture: Add natural texture and warmth to your remodel using storage pieces featuring airy rattan door details.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Organize pantry shelves and countertops beautifully with natural woven baskets that complement wood cabinetry tones.
Turn the Sink Toward the Living Room
One of my go-to open concept raised ranch kitchen remodel tweaks is moving the sink to the island so you face the living area. I’ve watched this simple layout shift improve sightlines and make everyday cleanup feel way less isolating.
Give these a look:
- Modern Gold Kitchen Faucet: Upgrade your sink with a sleek, gold pull-down faucet that offers both style and practical functionality.
- White Farmhouse Apron Sink: Install a deep, durable white farmhouse sink to handle large pots while creating a stunning visual centerpiece.
- Kitchen Island Soap Dispenser: Keep your countertops clutter-free by adding a matching built-in soap dispenser for a clean, streamlined look.
Make the Range Hood a Wood Statement
In an open concept raised ranch, the kitchen is on display, so I like turning the hood into a focal point with a wood-clad range hood. I’ve built hood covers from reclaimed boards, and that texture helps the big open room feel warm and finished.
Try these:
- Reclaimed Wood Planks: Instantly add rustic texture and warmth to your range hood cover with these easy-to-install authentic wood planks.
- Decorative Clavos Nails: Achieve that custom joinery look on your wood hood trim by adding these rustic, vintage-style iron accents.
- Range Hood Insert: Power your custom wood enclosure with a high-performance ventilation insert designed specifically to fit inside cabinetry shells.
Use Reclaimed Wood Open Shelves to Bridge Spaces
I’ve added reclaimed wood shelves near the former wall line to visually connect the kitchen to the dining/living area in a raised ranch. In an open concept kitchen, shelves are perfect for pretty everyday items without adding visual bulk.
A few relevant products:
- Floating Reclaimed Wood Shelf: Add rustic warmth to your open walls and display decor easily with a sturdy, natural wood floating shelf.
- Terra Cotta Vases and Pottery: Bring earthy tones to your display by arranging simple, textured terra cotta vases or bowls on your shelves.
- Peel and Stick Shiplap Wallpaper: Create a charming backdrop for your shelves quickly by applying textured shiplap-style wallpaper or paneling behind them.
Define Dining With a Built-In Bench Near the Stairs
Raised ranch stairs often dump you right into the main level, so I like placing a built-in bench nearby to create a “this is the dining zone” cue without closing the open concept. I’ve built benches with lift-up seats, and that hidden storage is gold in split-level homes.
A few things you might like:
- Wooden Bench with Storage: Establish a distinct dining or entry zone with a solid wood bench that offers hidden organization potential.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Keep clutter contained under your bench or on shelves with these textured, natural-looking organizational baskets.
- Neutral Throw Pillows: Add comfort and soften the look of your wooden bench with these cozy, versatile throw pillows.
Build a Drop Zone Right at the Top of the Split Stairs
Because raised ranch stairs act like a front door landing, I’ve built a compact drop zone of wood cubbies and hooks that matches the new kitchen cabinetry. It keeps the open concept kitchen from becoming the default backpack-and-mail dumping ground.
Explore these options:
- Wall-Mounted Coat Rack with Cubbies: Organize entryway essentials instantly with shelves and hooks that keep clutter off your kitchen counters.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Hide loose items like hats or mail in these textured baskets that add rustic warmth to shelves.
- Entryway Bench with Drawers: Create convenient seating and hidden storage for shoes or bags right at your stair landing.
Add a Beverage Nook Along the Former Wall Line
When I open up a raised ranch kitchen, I like using the old wall footprint for a slim beverage station so traffic doesn’t crowd the cook zone. It’s a small add-on that makes the open concept layout feel super intentional for entertaining.
You might give these a try:
- Glass Stemware Set: Upgrade your hosting game with elegant glassware that fits perfectly on open shelves for easy guest access.
- Electric Kettle: Keep hot water ready for tea or pour-over coffee with a sleek, rapid-boil kettle for your station.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Organize coffee pods, napkins, or tea bags discreetly while adding natural texture to your beverage nook shelves.
Create a Flip-Up Island Extension for Crafting
In a family-style open concept raised ranch kitchen, I’ve built islands with a flip-up extension that becomes an extra prep spot or a homework/craft table. It’s a fun woodworking-friendly feature that makes the island even more of a true hub.
These products might help:
- Heavy-Duty Folding Shelf Brackets: Install these brackets to create a sturdy, collapsible workspace perfect for kitchen prep or crafts.
- Unfinished Butcher Block Countertop: Use this solid wood slab to craft a custom extension that perfectly matches your island’s aesthetic.
- Matte Black Cabinet Pulls: Add matching hardware to your new extension or island drawers for a cohesive and modern look.
Turn the Stair Railing Into a Mini Herb and Plant Ledge
This is a weirdly effective one: in a raised ranch open concept kitchen, I’ve added a slim wood ledge along the stair rail to hold herbs and small plants. It softens the hard edges of the split-level stairs and brings life right into the kitchen sightline.
A few suggestions:
- Assorted Small Herb Planter Pots: Choose ceramic or terracotta pots that fit narrow ledges to display your favorite kitchen herbs stylishly.
- Indoor Herb Growing Starter Kit: Start your edible garden easily with a kit containing seeds, soil disks, and markers for fresh flavors.
- Waterproof Plant Saucers or Drip Trays: Protect your wooden ledge from water damage by placing these discreet trays underneath your potted plants.
Hide Counter Clutter With a Wood Tambour Appliance Garage
Open layouts show everything, so in an open concept raised ranch kitchen remodel I love building a wood tambour door cabinet to tuck away small appliances. I’ve done this with simple shop-made slats, and it keeps the space looking calm without losing function.
Consider these options:
- Wood Tambour Door Kit for Cabinets: Retrofit your existing cabinetry with a flexible roll-up door to neatly conceal microwaves or toasters.
- Freestanding Slatted Sideboard Cabinet: Add instant storage with a wood cabinet featuring louvered doors similar to the custom-built look.
- Unfinished Oak Slats for DIY Projects: Build your own custom appliance garage or slatted door using real wood strips for authentic texture.
Turn the Structural Beam Into a Bar Rail With Inlays
For a real wow moment in a raised ranch open concept kitchen, I’ve converted a boxed support beam into a slim bar rail and added wood inlays for texture. It transforms “we had to put a beam here” into “we designed this on purpose,” which is my favorite kind of remodel win.
May just do the trick:
- Flexible LED Strip Light Channel: Install a sleek channel under your bar rail to house LED strips for that professional, warm under-glow effect.
- Modern Counter Height Bar Stools: Complete your new seating area with comfortable, minimalist stools that tuck neatly under your custom wood rail.
- Dimmable LED Tape Lights: Create the perfect ambiance by adding warm white, dimmable tape lights to your new kitchen accent features.
