Unveiling Our 1970s Ranch Fixer-Upper: A Full Before Home Tour & Renovation Journey

Welcome, dear friends, to an exclusive sneak peek into our exciting new adventure! Grab your favorite mug of coffee, settle in, and prepare for the grand “before” house tour of our newly acquired 1970s ranch. If you were truly here with us, I’d insist on serving up some homemade snacks—and perhaps even a freshly baked treat if the day were particularly kind. You’d be welcome to linger as long as you wished, though a fair warning: stay too long, and you might just find a paintbrush magically appear in your hand! This charming old house, you see, is absolutely starved for a fresh coat of paint, a recurring theme you’ll notice throughout this entire tour. It’s a true testament to the vibrant, yet sometimes overwhelming, character of a genuine fixer-upper.

Folks, I am beyond thrilled to finally share this milestone with you! After years of dreaming and diligent searching, we are officially homeowners once again. This 70s ranch, nestled in our new Oregon surroundings (a delightful change from southern Illinois!), represents a fresh start and a canvas for our creative energy. While my husband charmingly insists it merely “needs paint,” I’m proudly calling it a fixer-upper – and a magnificent one at that! It’s everything we envisioned: a comfortable family home with ample space for our two young children to grow and thrive. Moving from a cozy 1200 sq. foot rental to this expansive abode, which is almost double in size, feels truly monumental. Whoa, indeed!

Today’s post is all about showcasing the “before” state of our new residence. Think of these images as a time capsule, capturing the original charm (and challenges!) of a house built in the 1970s. As we move forward, I’ll be periodically sharing updates on our progress, revealing how these spaces are slowly but surely transforming into our dream home. We’ve already started tackling the kitchen renovation, and let me tell you, the changes are already making a huge difference. You won’t want to miss those upcoming reveals!

Please bear with the quality of some of these initial photos. I had to snap them quickly as the sun was setting, contending with dark-colored walls and rooms that boast very little natural light. While they may not be Instagram-perfect, I believe their raw, unfiltered honesty only makes the eventual “after” pictures even more impactful and rewarding, don’t you agree?

Our Vision for the Family Room and Kitchen Transformation

The open-concept layout of the family room and kitchen was undoubtedly one of the features that captivated us from the start. We immediately saw the potential for a bright, inviting communal space. However, the existing conditions were quite a sight to behold. The walls were in dire need of attention, plagued by a dated dark olive green paint scheme, haphazardly retouched in countless spots with a contrasting pea green. Adding to the wear and tear were noticeable cat scratches etched into the drywall, and the ubiquitous, heavy wood trim that screamed 1970s. Despite these cosmetic challenges, we believe the bones of the room are excellent, and with just a few strategic updates—primarily paint and new curtains—we can dramatically alter its aesthetic. Our long-term dream, of course, involves replacing the current laminate flooring with beautiful, durable real wood, transforming the entire flow of the main living area.

Stepping into the kitchen felt like journeying back in time. With the exception of a newer dishwasher, every single element—from the countertops to the cabinets and fixtures—was entirely original to the 1970s. It was a true “time capsule” experience, complete with its own unique vintage charm, though certainly not in line with modern functionality or aesthetic preferences.

Our comprehensive plan for the kitchen transformation includes:

• **Lighting Upgrade:** Installing modern can lights and elegant pendant lights to dramatically enhance illumination and create a more inviting atmosphere.
• **Countertop Overhaul:** Removing the existing, worn countertops and replacing them with stylish, durable concrete. This DIY approach offers a unique, industrial-chic aesthetic while being a cost-effective solution.
• **Paint and Cabinets:** A fresh coat of paint throughout the kitchen, including painting the cabinets, will instantly brighten the space and erase decades of accumulated style. We plan to choose a contemporary color scheme that feels both timeless and fresh.
• **New Hardware:** Updating cabinet hardware is a small change with a big impact, instantly modernizing the look and feel of the kitchen.
• **Backsplash Addition:** Incorporating a tasteful backsplash will add texture, visual interest, and practicality to the cooking area.
• **Range and Hood Installation:** Replacing a cumbersome, giant cabinet with a sleek new range and an efficient hood will improve both aesthetics and functionality. While not our initial idea, this revised plan offers a fantastic solution for cooking needs.
• **Open Shelving:** Removing some of the upper cabinets and installing open shelving will create a sense of spaciousness, allow for decorative displays, and introduce a modern design element.
• **Glass Insert Replacement:** Swapping out dated glass inserts in cabinet doors for solid wood panels will give the cabinetry a more cohesive and contemporary appearance.
• **Window Treatments:** Installing new window treatments will enhance privacy, control natural light, and add a finishing touch to the overall design.
• **Sink and Faucet:** A brand-new sink and faucet will not only improve daily utility but also contribute to the kitchen’s refreshed, modern aesthetic.

Revitalizing the Dining Room: A Blend of Old and New

Conveniently located directly off the entryway and seamlessly connected to the kitchen, the dining room boasts a fantastic size and flow. However, like much of the house, its current decor is unmistakably dated. The space holds immense potential for hosting family meals and entertaining guests, but it needs a significant aesthetic update to match our vision for a modern, inviting home.

Our plans for the dining room are focused on cosmetic enhancements:

• **Paint Refresh:** A fresh coat of paint on the walls and trim will instantly brighten the room and provide a clean slate for new decor.
• **Modern Lighting:** Replacing the old light fixture with a contemporary design will elevate the room’s style and improve overall illumination.
• **Flooring Considerations:** The existing parquet floors will remain for the time being. While we ultimately dream of extending hardwood floors across all the main living areas one day, this is a longer-term aspiration, and the parquet offers a touch of original character for now.

The Formal Living Room: Unlocking Its Grand Potential

This room was a major selling point for us, instantly igniting our imagination. We envisioned countless evenings here, filled with the laughter and conversation of family and friends. The formal living room, despite its current aesthetic, possesses truly “great bones” and an inherent elegance. It simply needs a thoughtful refresh to bring its inherent grandeur to the forefront and create a sophisticated yet comfortable space for entertaining and relaxation. The potential to transform this room into a truly stunning focal point of our home is incredibly exciting.

Our renovation strategy for the formal living room involves:

• **Wallpaper Removal:** The first step will be to carefully remove the dated bamboo grass cloth wallpaper, revealing the clean walls underneath.
• **Paint and Trim:** A fresh coat of paint on the walls and trim will provide an updated, cohesive backdrop for new furnishings and decor.
• **Fireplace Refresh:** Painting the fireplace tile and mantel will modernize this central feature, transforming it into a stylish focal point.
• **New Lighting:** Replacing the old light fixture with a more elegant option will enhance the room’s ambiance.
• **Furniture and Curtains:** Investing in new furniture that complements the room’s refined aesthetic, along with hanging beautiful curtains, will complete the transformation, adding warmth and sophistication.

Practical Updates for Our Laundry Room: Tackling Newbie Mistakes

The laundry room, while functional, desperately needed an aesthetic upgrade. It was a space designed purely for utility, lacking any charm or modern convenience. Our immediate goal was to make it a more pleasant and efficient area for daily chores. Here’s a glimpse into our plans and a humorous anecdote about a common beginner’s blunder!

Our specific plans for the laundry room include:

• **Paint Walls and Cabinets:** A fresh coat of paint will instantly brighten the small space, making it feel cleaner and more inviting.
• **New Counter and Sink/Faucet:** Replacing the existing counter with a more durable and aesthetically pleasing option, along with a new sink and faucet, will enhance both the look and functionality.
• **Washer and Dryer Installation – and a Learning Moment!:** We were so excited to add our new washer and dryer, but we made a classic newbie mistake! We carefully measured for the appliances themselves, ensuring they would fit in the allotted space. What we completely overlooked, however, was the need for proper venting behind both machines, especially since we decided to flip their original positions. The result? Our shiny new washer and dryer now protrude slightly past the door frame, preventing the door from fully closing. Oops! While it was a moment of frustration, we quickly realized that we likely wouldn’t use the door much anyway, and the thought of dealing with a 10% restocking fee for a return made us accept our slight miscalculation with a shrug. It’s all part of the renovation journey, right?

The Guest Bath: A Future Full Renovation Project

The guest bathroom, while functional, is a stark reminder of the home’s original era. This space won’t see any immediate changes; it’s on our longer-term renovation schedule. Eventually, our plan is to undertake a complete transformation, what we affectionately call a “gut job.” This will involve removing and replacing the vanity, flooring, and toilet to create a completely updated and modern guest facility. We envision a bright, clean, and welcoming space that reflects the overall contemporary aesthetic we’re bringing to the rest of the house.

Master Bedroom and Bath: From Dated to Dreamy Retreat

Our master bedroom and adjoining bath are currently a testament to their 1970s origins, complete with dated finishes and an overall tired aesthetic. While these rooms will likely remain in their current state for a considerable period, we harbor grand plans for their eventual transformation. This is where we truly hope to create a serene, luxurious retreat from the daily hustle and bustle. The biggest shocker? Yes, there’s carpet in the bathroom! That alone tells you the scope of the project ahead for this space.

The long-term vision for the master suite includes:

• **Wallpaper Removal:** Stripping away the existing wallpaper to prepare for a fresh, contemporary look.
• **Paint Refresh:** Painting the entire room and trim to create a harmonious and calming color palette.
• **Bathroom Renovation:** A complete overhaul of the bathroom is on the horizon. This will involve removing the carpet (yes, the carpet!), updating all fixtures, replacing the vanity, and installing new flooring to transform it into a modern, spa-like sanctuary.

Designing Bedroom 2: A Child’s Vibrant Space

Bedroom 2, destined to be one of our children’s rooms, currently presents a lively yet somewhat chaotic aesthetic, featuring a striped wall. Our goal is to transform this space into a bright, cheerful, and functional room that sparks creativity and comfort. The existing decor, while adding character, needs to be updated to align with our desired modern and simplified style.

The plan for Bedroom 2 includes:

• **Curtain Replacement:** Swapping out the old curtains for new ones that complement the room’s refreshed color scheme.
• **Wall Paint:** Painting the striped wall a soft pink, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
• **Trim and Doors:** A fresh coat of paint on the trim and closet doors will tie the room together and give it a crisp finish.
• **New Light Fixture:** Installing a new light fixture will enhance the room’s brightness and introduce a modern design element.

Bedroom 3: Crafting a Cozy and Functional Zone

Bedroom 3, another vital space in our new home, is currently a blank canvas waiting for its own personality to emerge. Our goal is to transform this room into a cozy and highly functional area, whether it becomes another child’s bedroom, a versatile guest room, or a dedicated home office. The existing elements are straightforward, allowing for a creative and impactful cosmetic update.

Our strategic updates for Bedroom 3 include:

• **Wall Paint:** A fresh, neutral coat of paint will instantly brighten the room and provide a versatile foundation for any future decor.
• **Trim and Closet Doors:** Painting the trim and closet doors will provide a clean, unified look and elevate the room’s overall aesthetic.
• **New Window Treatments:** Installing new window treatments will enhance privacy, control natural light, and add a decorative touch.
• **New Light Fixtures:** Upgrading the light fixtures will improve the room’s illumination and contribute to a more modern and inviting ambiance.

Our Outdoor Oasis: Cultivating a Backyard Paradise

Finally, we arrive at the glorious outdoor space! For the first time ever, we are blessed with a fenced-in backyard, a feature that fills us with immense gratitude and excitement. Our lot, approximately a quarter-acre in size, even boasts mature grapevines—it truly feels like our very own garden of Eden, ripe with potential for cultivation and enjoyment. This outdoor area is going to be a key element of our family’s lifestyle, offering space for relaxation, play, and even sustainable living.

Our ambitious plans for transforming this backyard into an ideal outdoor oasis include:

• **Garden Beds and Fruit Trees:** Establishing dedicated garden beds for growing fresh produce and planting a selection of fruit trees to create a productive and beautiful edible landscape.
• **Chicken Coop:** Adding a chicken coop is a long-held dream, allowing us to enjoy fresh eggs and embrace a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
• **Bamboo Removal:** Tackling the pervasive bamboo growth to reclaim valuable space and prevent its spread.
• **Rock Relocation:** Removing some of the larger, unwieldy rocks to create more usable lawn or garden areas.
• **Dog Area Fencing:** Installing additional fencing to create a safe and dedicated space for our furry family members to play and roam freely.

And there you have it—the comprehensive “before” tour of our 1970s ranch! We’ve walked through every room, discussed its current state, and outlined our initial renovation plans. What do you all think of our new home and the exciting journey ahead? We are genuinely thrilled to embark on the process of transforming this house into a space that truly feels like “home” for our family. It’s a significant undertaking, and with two wonderful kids under the age of three, we know it will be a slow but incredibly rewarding process. We invite you to stay tuned as we slowly but surely bring our vision to life, one project at a time!