Chammarychammary

The best & WORST parts of renovating my 1970s house | 3 years later

TheSorryGirls · 1:11:09 · 1 weeks ago

The homeowner has transformed much of her 1970s farmhouse through three years of DIY renovations, though several rooms remain unfinished.

  • Original condition — Exposed wires, rotten floors, and illegal wiring posed safety risks throughout the two-story structure .

  • Office makeover — Removed poor trim, added authentic Herman Miller lamps, track curtains, and a pool table after a slate repair delay .

  • Dining nook — Thrifted sofa and chairs plus a DIY pedestal table created a functional booth area .

  • Coffee bar — Converted pantry closet with terracotta tile, bamboo counter, and double-sided vintage cabinets using French cleats .

  • Conversation pit — Added sofa arms, a rug, and a painted milk-glass pendant to define the open-concept zone .

  • Foyer upgrade — Installed a large circular window and code-compliant metal railing with 28 rungs .

  • Primary bathroom — Full gut job replaced rotted beams, added heated floors, cedar ceiling, and dual vanities .

  • Bedroom closet — Built a shoji-style door, suspended rails, and low divider cabinet to expand usable space .

  • Laundry room — Replaced pegboard with glass-block wall, cork floors, and custom drying rack .

  • Staircase — Stripped carpet, reinsulated walls with spray foam, added pine paneling and 70s-green carpet .

  • Main bedroom — Created accent wall with faux clerestory lighting, built-in closet drawers, and patio door access .

  • How did the pool table slate break during delivery?

  • What flooring options were considered for the primary bedroom?