I have a 1950s ranch with open plan, on concrete foundation. One side of the galley kitchen is freestanding (walls don't go to ceiling), and at the end of it is a "closet" containing a sub-panel. This closet is really a pantry…I have to move many things to gain access to panel. Want to convert into a semi-island, by spinning the panel 180 degrees and build a little broom closet around it, to run flush with the edge of counter top. I've read in other threads that the space for a panel needs to be 30" x 36" at minimum, which is much too big, and bigger than the current 24 x 24 it's in now.
Given the limitations of foundation and space, any chance I can play loose with code/standards and make the closet ~ 18" W X 14" D ?
Do I have to put it in a closet at all? Could I put it on a wall instead, maybe hang a picture over it to hide it? The other panel is on a bedroom wall (not in closet).
Based on all helpful comments received, here's how I could proceed:
1. Flip the panel 180 so it's on the "outside" wall.
2. 18-24 inches from the corner of outside wall, bump out 8-12 inches to allow for refrigerator being flush with face of galley, and run the island counter top flush with the bump.
3. Extend bumped area below the panel for a more finished look. (UNLESS CODE DICTATES OTHERWISE, in which case the notched area would extend all the way to the floor)???
I have ideas on how to pretty up the panel area by boxing it in with wood that's hinged around the corner, so when open it's flush to panel wall, allowing for the required work space…but that's another topic.
Best Answer
You cannot do what you propose. This would create a new installation that would have to meet current code. As you describe this would not even be close to making the clearances.
You can however flip the panel around 180 deg where it is now and cover it with a picture or something else that is temporary. You could even simply paint the cover the same as the wall so it may blend in better.