A Northern California 1970s Cabin Has Delightful Original Details, Even After Renovating

published Sep 21, 2022

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The living room with a view of the upstairs floor — Credit: Michele Miller
Family Room View 1 - added the lighting

Name: Michele Miller, husband, kiddos, two Siamese cats
Location: Davis, California
Type of home: House
Size: 1890 square feet
Years lived in: 1 year 6 months, owned

Credit: Michele Miller

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: We were so excited to buy our home in this solar village that focuses on building community ties. When the house came up for sale during the pandemic we jumped on the chance to own a slice. The house was very worn, so we had to paint, sand, and rehab almost every square foot. We use every square foot of our home and the communal garden area. And we love the 1970s and 1980s Northern California architecture.

Credit: Michele Miller

Kitchen - replace the counter, oven hood, back splash, kept the cabinets but added paint

There are many physical imperfections that we have allowed to remain even as we started renovating the house (some cracked Italian floor tile for instance). This allowance is mostly due to our budget constraints, but also that we don’t mind honoring the originally usefulness and palette of the home.

Credit: Michele Miller

Bathroom - was originally the laundry room

The home has warm-colored wood, warm-colored tile, and abundant outdoor light from the clerestory. We have continued on renovating with a warm color palate in mind. Accessories are a mix of vintage 1970s and current modern finishes.

Credit: Michele Miller

Hallway - removed the door that was here and added a topcoat to the slab

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Northern California 1970s Cabin

Credit: Michele Miller

Outdoor patio - replaced plants with drought tolerant varieties

What is your favorite room and why? Outside! I love being surrounded by plants.

Credit: Michele Miller

Dining Area - added the bench and sanded all the wood

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? CB2 Chairs, Backsplash,Tapestry

Credit: Michele Miller

Common area - built a retaining wall with salvaged river rock

Any advice for creating a home you love? Like everyone says, go to garage and estate sales for vintage items.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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