The inner wooden framework of your home, which supports exterior and interior wall coverings, windows and doors, provides areas for electrical wiring, plumbing, ductwork, and insulation. Because they don't support loads, non-bearing framing can be removed without compromising a structure's strength. Load-bearing framing walls support ceiling, roof, or upper floor loads, and thus cannot be removed without structural compromise.

If you are planning to remove bearing framing, you should hire an architect, who will eliminate confusion as to what you can and cannot do with your framing install, as well as save you a lot of time and money. Make sure the architect you hire is licensed and insured, with a portfolio and references available upon request. Your architect will help you detail exactly how you want to implement your framing install, and then draw up plans and material specifications.