Skylight's Profile

I like the idea of opening it up, though that kind of reno can cost the earth. Here's a budget reno by Peter Fallico with a similar layout where he kept the wall. Just goes to show what some cosmetic updates can do to blend modern and traditional.
http://www.styleathome.com/homes/interiors/our-25-favourite-interiors-of-2010/a/33630/11#
and
http://www.styleathome.com/homes/interiors/before-and-after-peter-fallico-s-style-for-less/a/33230