70s Kitchen Cabinets Get a Sleek, Modern Makeover

Tired of our outdated 70s kitchen, my husband and I decided it was finally time for a major makeover. The existing kitchen had solid wood cabinets over 50 years old that were worn and broken, with duct tape used as makeshift fixes on the drawers. The dingy vinyl flooring was also peeling up and looked completely unsightly. Beyond the dreary aesthetics, the small, closed-off layout lacked functionality and proper lighting. We knew we had to gut and completely redesign the space for a fresh, contemporary style.

To really open up the kitchen, we considered moving the staircase down to the basement. This would allow removing the walls surrounding the side entry mudroom and widening the window over the sink. We could also take down the soffits and install new wood floors for a seamless flow. The renovations would transform the kitchen into a spacious, bright hub of the home.

Planning Our 70s Kitchen Makeover

Before demolishing our outdated kitchen, we carefully assessed the existing cabinets to decide if any could be salvaged. Unfortunately, the doors were warped and drawers broken beyond repair after decades of use. The hinges were loose, and some cabinets lacked backs. The layout was also very closed off, with an awkward peninsula jutting out, obstructing movement. Appliances were crammed into corners without much breathing room. We measured the space and used graph paper to map out a more open, functional layout. This allowed planning where to relocate the refrigerator, oven, and sink to create better workflows. I pulled inspiration from Pinterest and Houzz to define the aesthetic direction for our redesign. Clean lines, fresh white paint, and vintage accents would give our kitchen a contemporary update.

Hiring contractors can get expensive, so we researched DIY options to maximize what we could accomplish ourselves. My husband has woodworking skills and felt up to installing new cabinets with some guidance. We allocated extra to hire a contractor to knock down walls, run updated electric and plumbing, and widen the kitchen's footprint. With strategic DIY and hired help, we could reinvent our kitchen within a reasonable budget of $15,000.

Selecting New Cabinets

Choosing the perfect cabinets was essential to achieve the modern look I envisioned. I researched brands like Medallion, KraftMaid, and Waypoint, comparing quality ratings and price points. Waypoint stood out for its range of customizable cabinetry at an affordable mid-range cost. Their selection of frameless cabinet boxes allowed adjusting interior configurations for optimal use of space. After getting quotes, we selected Waypoint's slick Brighton door style in a fresh white laminate finish. The clean lines and integrated hardware fit the contemporary aesthetic. Durable soft-close hinges also prevented annoying slamming sounds.

Optimizing the Layout

We worked closely with our contractor to completely reconfigure the layout for better flow and function. Knocking down walls opened sight lines from the breakfast nook through the kitchen. We relocated the appliances along the back wall and added a spacious island with seating. I requested rollout trays and slide-out shelves to maximize every inch of our new cabinetry. Adjusting the height of the wall cabinets provided room for taller items. The new footprint feels spacious and airy yet highly efficient.

Flooring, Countertops and Lighting

To finish the redesign, we replaced the worn vinyl flooring with wide-plank white oak floors. The light wood adds warmth to balance the crisp white cabinets. After researching options like granite and laminate, we chose an off-white quartz countertop that withstands heavy use. For the backsplash, we installed white subway tile in an offset pattern with light gray grout for an eye-catching accent. Undercabinet lighting and recessed LEDs ensure the workspace is brightly illuminated. Sleek track lighting over the island casts a focal glow for ambiance.

Executing Our Kitchen Makeover

Our contractor demolished the old kitchen over one messy, noisy weekend. They disposed of the dated cabinetry, appliances and flooring properly. Next they knocked down walls, relocated plumbing and electric, and installed new hardwood flooring. Custom cabinetry was delivered once their work was complete. My husband assembled the cabinets like giant LEGOs using the detailed instructions. I helped him hang them securely and attach doors. Installing the countertops and backsplash tile ourselves saved thousands. The finishing touches like lighting fixtures and cabinet hardware completed the transformation.

Living through the demolition was chaotic, forcing us to camp in the dining room. But coming home each day to see the kitchen evolving was thrilling. The final reveal when we removed the protective plastic sheets took our breath away. The light and open feel was even better than our plans conveyed on paper. We finally had our dream kitchen!

Design Features We're Loving

Our redesigned 70s kitchen exceeded our expectations. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Freestanding island with seating for four--perfect for casual meals and entertaining
• Slide-out shelves in lower cabinets organize pots, pans and serving ware
• Quartz countertops withstand years of meal prep and parties
• Super functional deep sink with industrial faucet
• Bright, energy efficient LED lighting illuminates every workspace
• Stylish subway tile backsplash complements white cabinetry

Taking on a DIY kitchen remodel taught us so much about planning, budgeting and project management. Defining a clear vision upfront is crucial. You must assess what can realistically be DIYed based on your skills. We saved by installing our own cabinets, but hired pros for complex structural work. Spending time researching quality materials also pays off in durability and aesthetics. We have no regrets about splurging a bit more on our custom cabinetry and quartz counters.

Make the most of every inch, no matter how small your kitchen. Creative storage solutions like pull-out shelves buy you space. Don't fear major changes like relocating fixtures or walls to enhance work triangles. We improved our function and flow tremendously by starting from scratch. In the end, the long process and messy reno was so rewarding. Our dated 70s kitchen is now our favorite room, thanks to some strategic planning and vision.

Upgrading an outdated kitchen takes time and elbow grease. But nothing can compare to prepping family meals in a light, contemporary space we designed ourselves. We look forward to enjoying this kitchen for many years to come. With some diligence and creativity, you too can transform the heart of your home.