Reimagine Your 1980s Kitchen with These Laminate Cabinet Makeovers
The 1980s were a time of bold style, with kitchens decked out in oak cabinets, bright laminate finishes, and colors like mint green and peach. While dated, these retro touches also have nostalgic charm. Instead of tearing everything out for a full remodel, you can reimagine your 1980s kitchen by giving those laminate cabinets a DIY makeover.
With some creativity and elbow grease, you can transform the look without replacing the existing cabinet boxes. Here are innovative ways to turn back the clock on your 1980s kitchen while retaining a cool retro vibe.
Identifying Your 1980s Laminate Cabinets
First, take a close look at your existing kitchen cabinets. Typical 1980s styles include laminate finishes in woodgrain patterns. You may have genuine oak cabinets too. Distinctive door designs include cathedral arch panels and raised center panels.
colors tend toward avocado green, bright teal, pink, peach, and country blue - often paired with white trim for contrast. Ornate crown molding and trim embellish cabinet frames and lend a formal look.
Why Update Instead of Replace?
Gutting and replacing kitchen cabinets can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Updating your existing set instead saves major money. It's also an eco-friendly choice since you aren't tossing cabinets into a landfill.
Plus, light refreshes allow you to retain some of that funky 1980s charm. You can modernize the look while keeping touches of retro style.
Painting Laminate Cabinets for a Fresh Look
A coat of paint is an easy DIY makeover for tired laminate. After proper prep and priming, almost any color paint adheres well to laminate for a completely new look.
Clean cabinets thoroughly, then scuff surfaces with sandpaper for the paint to grip. Apply 2-3 coats of high-adhesion primer formulated for laminate and plastics. Finally, repaint in your color of choice.
Opt for timeless white, light dove gray, or even navy blue. Or choose a trendy sage green or terra cotta for a bold retro statement. Proper prep and application are key for a smooth finish.
Adding New Hardware for Modern Style
Replacing old hardware with updated knobs, pulls, and handles is a simple change that packs a big visual punch. Ditch the country brass for sleek matte black pulls or rectangular brushed nickel bars.
Or swap ornate crystal knobs for clean, contemporary styles in satin brass or chrome. Go for uniform hardware throughout for a polished look. New hardware instantly modernizes cabinets.
More Quick Cabinet Makeovers
If your laminate cabinet boxes are in good shape, consider just switching out doors or updating trim accents. New doors provide fresh style without the work of refacing.
Look for replacement doors to coordinate with your cabinet finish. Upgrading just doors cuts costs while allowing creativity. Or customize with glass door inserts for an open, airy look.
Repairing or replacing damaged trim transforms plain cabinets. Add extra trim pieces, replace outdated ornamental trim with simple modern molding, or give trim a coat of white paint.
Freshening Up Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops were popular in 1980s kitchens. An inexpensive upgrade is resurfacing by painting or applying new peel-and-stick laminate sheeting.
Specialty epoxy paints adhere well for a sleek solid color finish. Or cover existing laminate with metal, marble, or patterned contact paper.
Finish edges with coordinating caulk or trim pieces. Quick upgrades make even worn laminate counters look brand new.
Changing the Backsplash for a New Look
Nothing transforms a kitchen faster than installing a new backsplash. Remove outdated ceramic tile and get creative with something fresh.
Modern choices like geometric patterned tile, stainless steel, or marble instantly provide an updated backdrop. Or revisit retro style with blue, peach, or pink subway tiles.
Peel-and-stick tile offers fast installation without mess. Complement your updated cabinets and counters with a backsplash makeover.
Tying It All Together
When doing several DIY cabinet makeovers at once, consider finishes and colors holistically. A cohesive look makes the biggest impact.
Thoroughly clean all surfaces first. Then coordinate your cabinet color, new hardware finish, countertop, and backsplash choices. Style with accessories like modern pendant lights.
Well-planned makeovers make even 1980s laminate cabinets look brand new. Have fun and show off your style!
Avoiding Pitfalls of DIY Makeovers
To ensure your laminate cabinet makeovers go smoothly, avoid common DIY mishaps.
Properly prep all surfaces - sand, clean, repair damage. Allow adequate drying time between coats. Closely follow product instructions.
Work slowly and cautiously. Ask a handy friend for help if needed. Rushing through steps risks unsatisfying results. Patience and care lead to success.
Updating your 1980s kitchen doesn't mean saying farewell to its retro charms. With creative techniques like painting cabinets, replacing doors, and installing fresh backsplash tile, you can reimagine your kitchen without removing existing cabinets.
Our tips and ideas show you where to find supplies and how to complete transformations yourself. Show off your refreshed 1980s-inspired style while keeping costs low. Let us know how your DIY laminate cabinet makeovers turn out!