I am in search of an architect/designer in the Boston area. I want to knock the connecting wall between the kitchen and living room as well as open both rooms into the hallway to create an open floor plan. I am worried because my parents think that all the walls are supporting walls and structurally it would not work. any advice?

You can also consult with a structural engineer and if they are load bearing he can come up with a design to transfer the load to the foundation when you remove the walls.

Thanks Sparky I will look into that.
Another question, Has anyone used reliableremodeler.com? Or know anyone that used it and had good or bad experiences? any info would be very helpful