When it comes to vintage kitchens and bathrooms in Northeast Los Angeles (NELA) neighborhoods like Highland Park, Eagle Rock, and Pasadena, homeowners often ask: should they keep the original charm or go for a modern remodel? The answer depends on the era, condition, and buyer preferences in 2025.
Remodeled kitchen in a Spanish Style home. This meets our 2025 standards.
When Is the Right Time to Remodel a Kitchen?
One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is assuming their 2007 remodel is still up to date. A good rule of thumb is that kitchen trends change every 10-15 years. If your kitchen was last updated in the early 2000s, it’s time to rethink the space, especially if it features outdated granite countertops, beige cabinetry, or Tuscan-style tile backsplashes.
In NELA, buyers either love an original kitchen or want a fully remodeled, brand-new 2025 kitchen—there’s rarely an in-between. Understanding what’s worth preserving versus what needs updating can make all the difference when selling your home.
Original kitchen with updates such as a dishwasher. This is a must-keep.
Original Bathrooms: Keep or Restore?
If your home has an original bathroom from the 1920s or 1930s, keep it! Eastside LA buyers adore vintage bathroom features such as:
Original tile flooring
Vintage shower tile
Tile countertops with an integrated sink
Authentic fixtures like pedestal sinks and clawfoot tubs
Mid-century modern bathrooms (1940s-1960s) are also highly desirable and should be kept intact or restored rather than replaced. Think colorful tile, floating vanities, and built-in medicine cabinets—these design elements are timeless.
Original Mid-Century bathroom. This is the type of bathroom for a restoration instead of a remodel.
What Bathrooms Need a Remodel?
If your bathroom was last updated in the 1980s, 1990s, or early 2000s, it’s likely time for a renovation. Buyers today want clean lines and high-end finishes, not faux-marble Formica counters or outdated glass block shower walls (except for the genuinely cool ones from the '80s). Consider replacing the following:
Dated vanities and cabinetry
Out-of-style tile and fixtures
Overly ornate lighting
What About Kitchens? Keep or Remodel?
Finding an original kitchen from the 1920s-1960s is rare, but when you do, preserving or restoring it can be a major selling point. Some elements worth keeping include:
Vintage stoves from the 1930s (if still functional)
Original wood cabinetry from the mid-century modern era (never paint these white!)
Retro tile countertops (if they’re in good condition)
Easy Fixes for Kitchens from the 1970s-2010s
If your kitchen falls into the more generic remodels of the last few decades, don’t worry! A few strategic updates can make a big impact:
Replace outdated Home Depot tile flooring with something high-end.
Swap out old granite countertops for quartz or butcher block.
Refresh cabinets with new paint—look to Architectural Digest for trending color inspiration.
Older kitchen that could use a facelift.
Final Thoughts
For homeowners in Northeast LA, knowing what to keep and what to update is key to maximizing resale value. Buyers in 2025 want either a beautifully preserved vintage space or a high-end modern remodel—nothing in between. When in doubt, preserve original charm where possible and upgrade wisely where needed to appeal to today’s Eastside homebuyers.
Thinking About Selling?
If you're considering selling your home in Northeast LA, I’d love to help you navigate the process and get top dollar for your property. Whether you’re wondering what upgrades will add value or need expert advice on marketing your home, reach out today for a no-obligation consultation!