General Renovation Project: C00701 | Western NY Before & After

From Dated and Cramped to Bright and Beautiful: A Complete Home Renovation in Lockport

When the Martinez family bought their 1970s ranch home just outside Lockport, they knew it had bones. What they didn’t know was how much potential was hiding beneath the dark wood paneling, popcorn ceilings, and disconnected floor plan. After two years of living with the original layout and finishes, they called Mid City Home Restoration to help them reimagine their space.

The Challenge

The Martinez home presented the kind of renovation puzzle we see often here in Western New York: a solid structure that felt tired and closed off. The kitchen was separated from the living areas, making it hard to keep an eye on their two kids while cooking. The primary bathroom was cramped, with an outdated vanity and a shower that leaked during heavy rains. Throughout the house, small windows and dark finishes made rooms feel smaller than they actually were.

Beyond the aesthetic concerns, there were structural considerations. The roofing around the kitchen showed signs of wear, and the home’s original electrical system had been patched together over the decades rather than properly updated. The couple wanted a comprehensive renovation that would modernize the home, improve functionality, and increase its long-term value without completely gutting the place.

They needed a contractor who understood renovation work in homes of this era, someone with the experience to handle surprises that come with 1970s construction, and the vision to turn their ideas into reality. That’s where we came in.

Our Approach

We started with a detailed site visit and consultation to understand what the Martinez family really wanted from their home. It wasn’t about following trends or doing what we thought looked nice—it was about creating spaces that worked for their daily life. We listened to their concerns about the kitchen layout, the bathroom issues, and their desire for more natural light throughout.

Our team developed a phased plan that allowed the family to stay in the home during most of the work. First, we addressed the structural issues: we reinforced and re-roofed the kitchen area, brought the electrical system up to code with a full panel upgrade, and installed new plumbing lines to support the updated bathroom fixtures. While this foundation work was happening, we began planning the cosmetic and layout changes.

The kitchen renovation involved removing a non-load-bearing wall to open the space to the dining area, which immediately made the home feel larger and more connected. We installed new cabinetry with modern storage solutions, added a large window over the sink, and brought in better lighting with recessed fixtures and pendant lights over the island. The new countertops and backsplash added visual interest without overwhelming the space.

In the primary bathroom, we replaced the cramped vanity with a double-sink setup, completely resealed the shower to stop the leaks, and added a skylight that brings in natural light and improves ventilation. We updated the tile work and fixtures with quality products that will hold up well over time.

Throughout the house, we replaced the popcorn ceilings with smooth drywall, updated all the windows to modern energy-efficient models, and refreshed the walls with quality paint. We removed some of the dark wood paneling and replaced it with neutral finishes that make the rooms feel open and bright. New lighting fixtures, both functional and decorative, were installed in every room.

Communication was key throughout the project. We provided regular updates, addressed questions as they came up, and worked through the small decisions and adjustments that come with any renovation. Our team showed up on time, kept the work site clean, and respected the family’s home and privacy.

The Result

The transformation was remarkable. Walking through the home now, you’d never guess it was built in the 1970s. The open kitchen flows into the dining and living areas, making it easy for the parents to stay connected with their kids while preparing meals. The natural light streaming through the new windows and skylights makes every room feel fresh and welcoming. The primary bathroom is no longer a source of frustration—it’s actually a relaxing retreat with its double vanity and well-lit shower.

But beyond the visible changes, the Martinez family now has a home that’s mechanically sound and built to last. The updated electrical and plumbing systems mean fewer problems down the road. The new roof gives them peace of mind during the Buffalo area’s rough winters. And because everything was done by a licensed, professional contractor, they have our 1-year workmanship warranty backing the job.

Perhaps best of all, the family loves their home again. They’re not thinking about moving or wondering if they made the right decision buying this place. Instead, they’re enjoying the kitchen with their friends, feeling proud of their renovated space, and building memories in a home that finally reflects who they are and how they want to live.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a general renovation like this typically take?

The timeline depends on the scope of work and the size of your home. The Martinez project took about four months from start to finish, including the structural work, kitchen renovation, bathroom update, and cosmetic refreshes throughout. During our initial site visit, we can give you a much better estimate based on what you want to accomplish. We also work with you to establish a schedule that minimizes disruption to your daily life.

What’s included in a general renovation?

General renovation can encompass many things: updating kitchens and bathrooms, opening up floor plans, upgrading electrical and plumbing systems, replacing roofing, updating windows and doors, refreshing finishes, and improving lighting and ventilation. Learn more about our general renovation services to see what we can do for your home. The specific work is determined based on your goals, budget, and home’s needs.

Can you handle renovation work on older homes in the Lockport area?

Absolutely. Many of the homes throughout Western New York were built several decades ago, and we have extensive experience working with these structures. Older homes often have surprises hiding behind the walls, and our team knows how to handle them professionally. We’re familiar with the building practices and materials used in homes of different eras and know how to bring them up to current standards while preserving their character.

Do you offer a warranty on your work?

Yes, we stand behind our work with a 1-year workmanship warranty on all projects. This gives you confidence that if anything isn’t right, we’ll take care of it. We take pride in quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, and this warranty is part of that commitment.

How much does a project like this cost?

Renovation pricing varies widely based on the scope of work, materials selected, and specific needs of each home. Rather than guessing, we provide accurate pricing after an on-site assessment where we can see what you’re working with and understand your goals. This lets us give you a fair estimate that reflects the actual work involved.

Ready to transform your home? Book your free site visit and see what Mid City Home Restoration can do for you.