So Long Wallpaper

When we moved into our house the one room that required major updating was and still is the kitchen. While we are not in the position to tear out the lovely formica cabinets (I'm saving my pennies) the 80's wallpaper was really wearing on me. I think because I'm home and have to look at these walls all day that I tend to be more critical. Anyway, I knew the wallpaper removal would be a bear of a project. Then one day Jack tore a bit off. That was all the motivation I needed. He started it, after all. Right? Anyway, I started take off a small strip and the process was very slow going. The other thing I should mention is that initially I found some black residue beneath the paper. I was worried it was mildew and decided to call in some professionals for estimates. The painters assured me that it wasn't mildew or mold but most likely some type of sticky residue left over from trying to patch those cabinets. Anyway, after I about fell over hearing their quotes I decided that wasn't going to work. So, my dad came over (thanks dad!) and together we scraped and sprayed and sanded. It took a long time and it might not be 100 percent perfect. But, it's way better than the alternative. The 80's picture background had served its time. So here's the way the kitchen is today. I would like to paint the doors and the trim...and eventually, fingers crossed, rip out those cabinets. But, it's MUCH better!

BEFORE







The lovely pattern up close...

We also replaced those square shaped bug lights with better recessed lighting. It's hard to tell in this picture but those lights gave off about as much light as a nightlight. It was REALLY hard to laundry when you couldn't see what you were laundering.

That square halogen light fixture is gone!!





All the yellow that you see on the walls is the wallpaper backing. Fun stuff getting that off.

When we took down the square light fixture and tried to put up a regular one, we noticed that the placement of the fixture was really odd. The light wasn't over the oven but just to the right of it. So, we had the electrician move that too. Of course that meant more drywall repairs. Yippee.