In this Poway remodel, the homeowner wanted to open up their living space by removing a dated, enclosed wall that blocked flow between the kitchen and living area. HomeSmith Inc. was brought in to remove a load-bearing wall, re-engineer the ceiling structure, and create a clean, modern transition with a flush-mounted beam that maintained ceiling height and improved the overall flow of the home.
Load-Bearing Wall Removal & Flush Beam Retrofit – Poway
Removed a bulky bearing wall in Poway and replaced it with a flush-mounted ceiling beam—creating a clean, open transition between kitchen and living space.
Project Overview
- Location: Poway, CA
- Completion Date: Fall 2025
- Client: Private Residence
- Scope: Structural wall removal, flush beam installation, ceiling reframe, open-concept kitchen transition
The Process
Demolition & Wall Rebuild
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Fully demoed the partition wall, exposing structural members
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Re-routed HVAC vents, power, and lighting lines
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Shored up load points and prepped for a flush beam insert
Beam Installation
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Installed a flush-mounted engineered LVL beam, tied directly into the ceiling joists
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Secured with joist hangers and metal brackets
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Carefully integrated structural support posts behind new drywall returns
Finishing & Integration
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Framed and refinished the new open pass-through with drywall
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Added recessed lighting and wiring for future pendant fixtures
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Installed custom cabinetry and a wide kitchen peninsula with seating, blending both spaces
Final Outcome
This project dramatically improved the openness, light, and layout of the home. The space now flows freely from kitchen to living room, without the visual interruption of a load-bearing wall or dropped beam. HomeSmith’s precise structural and finish work ensured the remodel felt like it was always meant to be.