The Pros and Cons of Having a 1970s Home Kitchen: A Guide

The Pros and Cons of Having a 1970s Home Kitchen: A Guide
Published June 11, 2021 by ultrastarter in Articles

Owning a house built in the 1970s means living in a home rich in history and filled with memories. Although your property is full of character because of its unique features, it may require some updating through a renovation. This is especially true if your space no longer suits your lifestyle, needs, and preferences. 

If you decide to push through with a house renovation, the kitchen is the best place to start. Since it is where you prepare food and eat with your family together, it is considered the heart of the home. To determine if remodeling your 1970s kitchen is right for you, here are some of its advantages and disadvantages:

What Are the Advantages of 1970s Kitchens?

Kitchens from the 1970s have features that are desirable even after several decades. Here are some of their advantages that make them stylish and functional home additions:

High-quality cabinetry

Trendy colors back then that were typically used in cabinets are avocado green, sunflower, and chocolate shades. Although this color scheme might seem too corny for your liking, the kitchen cabinets from the 1970s are sturdy. They are almost always custom-made with high-quality, solid wood. 

If you choose to give the appearance of your kitchen cabinets an update, consider replacing the cabinet doors with a more modern style. You can also paint over them because their material makes the best base for a fresh coat of paint. However, consider keeping the rest of the cabinets intact. 

Open floor plans

Another reason to love your 1970s kitchen is its open floor plan. With its refrigerator-sink-stove work triangle, you can have a more efficient kitchen workspace. It also offers sufficient space at the center and appliances sitting in the perimeter. 

This open floor plan also provides you with a perfect blank slate for your kitchen remodeling project. For instance, you can move the pantry, open a wall from the dining area, or add a kitchen island, depending on your needs.

What Are the Disadvantages of 1970s Kitchens?

While kitchens from the seventies offer many benefits, they also have downsides. Here are some of their disadvantages:

Space

Although 1970s kitchens have an open floor plan, they usually have limited space. They also rarely have islands or eat-in spaces, so you should consider the kitchen size if the current one feels too crowded. Just note that this involves tearing down walls, so make sure to hire experienced general contractors to ensure safe and high-quality structural changes.     

Lack of insulation

The most significant disadvantage of old kitchens from the seventies is that they had little to no insulation. To start insulating your kitchen during the remodel, you can choose to expand foam insulation pumped through halls or install fresh drywall. If you will reuse your kitchen cabinets, work with professionals to remove them carefully. 

Conclusion

An outdated kitchen can interfere with your cooking, dining, and other daily activities. This means your kitchen made from the seventies is bound to require some upgrades. To ensure it matches your present needs and lifestyle, consider its advantages and disadvantages before doing a kitchen remodel. Finally, take your time to consult with professionals like us so you can have an updated functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen.

Fall in love with your kitchen the second time by seeking home renovation in Houston by Incredible Homes. Our talented team of architects and a designer can help you determine your needs and wants to create your dream kitchen. Contact us to schedule a free estimate!