Hi Saqib, Great project. The main issue is that a chimney is a vent to the outside so if you close it up it can increase the amount of moisture in the room which can cause condensation, which can cause damp, which can cause mould, which is bad for your health. It can also cause rot in a wooden floor. Second issue is that if your chimney pots are not capped, you could have rain water come down the chimney on to your box. Both are easy to fix. Chimney cap: Chimney vent: However... In my experience it really depends on your house. If your house is prone to damp and condensation then blocking the chimney might make it worse. This is usually a problem with older houses that don't have a damp proof course or cavity walls and have suspended floors. Post 1950's houses don't usually have any of these issues. I did a similar project for my parents many years ago, but I removed their chimneys from downstairs. I didn't leave vents or cap the chimney. It's been more than 10 years and they've never had a problem. Many of their neighbours have also done the same. Regarding the recessed bar. That will not be possible unless you are planning on putting in another lintel above the bar. If you chisel away some of the plaster just above the opening you'll see an arch made of bricks or a concrete lintel. That's what holds up the chimney above the opening, So removing a long horizontal section above the lintel will compromise the whole structure above. That will need to be re-supported either by moving the lintel up above the recess or if its a brick arch then a new lintel above the height of the bar. Chimney lintel: Chimney arch: Hmm, unless of course you mean the bar will go below the lintel in which case that's fine as long as you're not going any wider than the current opening.

I agree. Reinstate the fireplaces. Not only will they look great (and you can paint them to match each colour scheme or just go for all white, or all black) but they will also add perceived value to your house. People who look at Victorian houses mostly like original features, or at least a nod to the past.

Thanks all. @claircallan - kids are all under 10 atm and I like the idea of adding a window. @jjcgn - we have tinkered with the idea of moving the entrance door but decided against it as it would be too close to the front door entrance. @ruthB - I have also thought about removing and replacing but there isn’t anywhere else it can go.. @163hrd - agree with cabinetry comments @rinked - you really are Houzz royalty, I’m often fascinated with your suggestions so do it! 👸🏻 Attaching the floor plan but will also attach extension plan for kitchen to give you a better idea of the space.

I think trying to match the floor is not really a solution. Even if you find the exact boards you will now have a join all the way across in a straight line. The suggestion of black granite or slate is the best one. Are you still planning on having a fireplace in that spot? If not then a piece of furniture is probably the most cost effective solution. I would be tempted to leave the floor until the wall is made good. You also have a skirting gap which is annoying to have to close. I have the same floor as you, I'm too scared to take the kickplate off to check under my island. If I am judging current building standards correctly I'll bet the floor stops short just like yours. It's a big area too.