In this episode we take on the renovation of a dated kitchen from the 1960s, and turn it into a dream kitchen any homeowner would love.
Our 1960s kitchen renovation project included:
- Painting the existing cabinets.
- Installing new cabinet doors and hardware.
- Replacing the plastic laminate countertops with granite.
- Installing a new stainless steel sink and faucet.
- Removing wallpaper and installing a tumbled marble backsplash.
- Installing recessed and under cabinet lighting.
- Laying a ceramic tile floor.
- Replacing the appliances with stainless steel.
Out with the Old
Our 1960s kitchen renovation began by taking out the old appliances, sink, cabinet doors, drawers, and plastic laminate countertops.
Next, we modified the hanging cabinet over the stove to accommodate a combination microwave and vent hood by cutting the existing face frame on the cabinet and removing the cabinet bottom. The frame and cabinet bottom were then reattached higher up on the cabinet to provide the needed space.
The old plywood paneling on the walls was removed, and drywall installed and finished. In addition, the door to the room was replaced, and larger crown molding installed around the ceiling.
Kitchen Lighting
The old fluorescent light fixtures were removed and holes cut in the ceiling for new recessed light fixtures. Remodeler cans were used for the recessed light fixture housings to minimize the amount of work in the attic.
Under cabinet light fixtures were added under the hanging cabinets to provide additional lighting, and new wall switches and outlets were also installed.
Watch our video on Recessed Light Fixtures to find out more.
Painting Kitchen Cabinets
The old cabinets were sanded with 220-grit sandpaper to dull and smooth the varnish finish. After the cabinets had been wiped down to remove any sanding dust, they were primed using an oil-based primer.
Any imperfections in the cabinets—such as indentations from the old hinges and screw holes—were filled with automotive body filler and sanded smooth. This was followed by two coats of oil-based paint on all the cabinets.
Once the paint on the cabinets was dry, the new doors and drawer fronts were installed with hidden hinges and brushed nickel knobs and pulls. Replacement cabinet doors can be custom made by a local cabinet shop, or ordered from home centers.
Kitchen Countertops and Backsplash
The homeowners selected sapphire brown granite countertops for the kitchen. The 4”x4” tumbled marble noche backsplash tiles by Mohawk were installed in a diagonal pattern with accents of sapphire brown granite to match the countertops.
Tile Floor
Since the existing vinyl flooring was glued securely to the concrete slab, the floor tile could be installed right over it. The homeowners chose 14”x14” noche ceramic tile, also by Mohawk, to blend with the backsplash.
Check out our step-by-step article on How to Lay a Tile Floor to find out more.
Appliances
Stainless steel GE Profile appliances—including range, microwave/vent hood, dishwasher, and refrigerator—were installed to complete the kitchen remodel.
Finished Kitchen
The white painted cabinets with new frame and panel doors contrast nicely with the granite countertops and tumbled marble backsplash. The tile floor and stainless steel appliances complete the transformation from a dated 1960s kitchen to an attractive modern kitchen with all the conveniences.
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