General Renovation Project: C00553 | Western NY Before & After

From Dated to Delightful: A Complete Kitchen and Bath Renovation in Lockport

When the Hendersons bought their 1970s colonial home in Lockport three years ago, they loved the bones of the house but knew something had to give. The kitchen was cramped and dark, with original avocado appliances and cabinets that had seen better days. The master bathroom was equally outdated, featuring a pink tile shower that felt like stepping back in time. After living with these spaces for a couple of years, they decided it was time to bring their home into the 21st century.

The Hendersons reached out to Mid City Home Restoration after a neighbor recommended our work. They wanted a team that understood the character of older Western New York homes while bringing modern functionality and style to their space. What started as conversations about a kitchen renovation quickly evolved into a full general renovation project that transformed both the kitchen and primary bathroom.

The Challenge

The Hendersons faced several interconnected problems typical of homes from that era. The kitchen layout was inefficient, with poor lighting and limited counter space. Behind the walls, we discovered outdated electrical wiring that needed updating to safely handle modern appliances and devices. Plumbing in the bathroom required attention as well, with water pressure issues and an old cast iron drain stack that was deteriorating.

Beyond the mechanical systems, the homeowners wanted to maintain the character of their 1970s home while creating spaces that felt fresh and current. They weren’t looking to strip away all original details but rather to work with them thoughtfully. The master bath had original hardwood floors in the bedroom adjacent to it, and the kitchen opened into a living room with original wood beams that needed to stay intact.

Time was another consideration. The Hendersons still lived in the home during the project and needed a realistic timeline that would minimize disruption to their daily lives. They also wanted clear communication throughout the process so there would be no surprises along the way.

Our Approach

We started with a detailed site visit and walkthrough, taking time to understand not just what the Hendersons wanted to change, but why. We listened to their stories about the home and what they loved about living in the Lockport area. This conversation helped us understand their priorities and develop a renovation plan that honored their home’s history while meeting their modern needs.

For the kitchen, we worked with the existing footprint but opened up the space by removing a non-load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining area. This immediately made the space feel larger and allowed for better flow. We installed new recessed lighting and added a large window over the sink to bring in natural light. The new cabinetry was designed to maximize storage and workflow, with deeper drawers replacing traditional cabinets in key spots. We updated all electrical outlets and added dedicated circuits for the new appliances. The countertops are durable quartz, chosen for both their look and practicality for a busy household.

In the bathroom, we needed to be more surgical with our changes. We completely replaced the plumbing, including that problematic drain stack. The new layout positions fixtures more efficiently and creates better traffic flow. We replaced the dated tile with a clean, contemporary design that complements the home’s overall aesthetic. The shower surround is now a large-format porcelain tile that’s easier to clean and maintain. We kept the hardwood floors in the adjacent bedroom intact, protecting them throughout construction and ensuring they remain a beautiful frame for the updated bathroom space.

Throughout the project, we maintained regular communication with the Hendersons. We scheduled work in phases so they could use other parts of their home and updated them weekly on progress. When we discovered issues behind the walls, we explained what we found and presented options before moving forward. This transparency is part of how we work here at Mid City Home Restoration. We also made sure our crew was professional and respectful of their space, arriving on time each day and cleaning up thoroughly before leaving.

The Result

The transformation has been remarkable. The Hendersons now have a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional. The open layout creates a gathering space where family members can be together while someone prepares meals. The lighting makes the space feel airy and welcoming, even on gray Western New York mornings. They’ve told us that they actually enjoy cooking and spending time in the kitchen now, which wasn’t the case before.

The bathroom has gone from a source of frustration to a spa-like retreat. The improved plumbing means consistent water pressure and temperature control. The updated fixtures and finishes are easy to maintain, and the space feels clean and modern while still fitting with the home’s overall character. The Hendersons appreciated our attention to protecting their hardwood floors during the project, and they remain in excellent condition.

Beyond the visible improvements, we updated critical systems behind the walls. The new electrical work provides the capacity for modern living, and the plumbing upgrades solved long-standing issues. Everything comes with our one-year workmanship warranty, so the Hendersons can feel confident that their investment is protected. If any issues arise related to our work, we’ll address them promptly.

The project took about eight weeks from start to finish, which was in line with our initial estimate. Because we listened carefully at the beginning and maintained clear communication throughout, there were no major surprises or scope creep. The Hendersons were involved in key decisions and felt good about each step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a general renovation project typically take?

The timeline depends on the size and complexity of your project. A kitchen renovation might take four to ten weeks, while a full bathroom can take three to six weeks. Projects that involve discovering issues behind walls or plumbing and electrical updates may take longer. We’ll give you a realistic estimate after our initial site visit and assessment of your specific home.

Do you work with homeowners who are still living in their homes during renovation?

Absolutely. We understand that many people can’t relocate during a project, and we plan accordingly. We schedule work to minimize disruption, protect your belongings, and maintain clean work areas. Communication is key, and we’ll keep you updated on our schedule so you can plan your days accordingly.

What happens if you discover problems during the renovation?

We’ll document what we find, explain the issue, and present your options before proceeding. Sometimes issues behind walls require adjustments to the scope or timeline. We believe in transparency, and you’ll never be surprised by unexpected problems discovered during your renovation.

Does Mid City Home Restoration serve areas outside of Lockport?

Yes, we serve Western New York within a 45-mile radius of Lockport. This includes the Buffalo area and surrounding communities. If you’re unsure whether we service your location, reach out and we’ll let you know.

What warranty do you offer on renovation work?

All of our work is backed by a one-year workmanship warranty. If any issues related to our craftsmanship or installation arise within that year, we’ll address them at no additional cost to you.

Ready to transform your home? Book your free site visit and see what Mid City Home Restoration can do for you. Whether you’re thinking about a kitchen update, a bathroom refresh, or a complete general renovation, we’re here to listen to your vision and bring it to life.