Ep 9. Arts and Crafts From Top to Bottom

This Old House is a long-running home improvement and renovation series that has been airing since 1979. The show follows a group of contractors as they tackle various renovation projects on older homes, with a focus on craftsmanship, quality, and preservation.

Season 34 episode 9 is titled "Arts and Crafts From Top to Bottom." In this episode, the team takes on a major renovation of a historic Arts and Crafts home. The homeowners are passionate about preserving the original character and charm of the home, which was built over a century ago, while also updating it for modern living.

The episode begins with a tour of the home's exterior, which features a beautiful brick facade and intricate woodwork detailing. The team points out some of the original architectural features of the home, such as the exposed rafter tails and the decorative brackets under the roof eaves. They also note that the home's roof is in need of repair, and that the original wood shingles will need to be replaced.

Inside the home, the team begins by assessing the overall condition of the house. They note that while the original woodwork and built-ins are in excellent condition, the wiring, plumbing, and mechanical systems will need to be updated to meet modern building codes. They also discuss the challenge of adding modern amenities to the home without compromising its historic character.

One of the major projects tackled in this episode is the renovation of the home's kitchen. The team works closely with the homeowners to design a kitchen that is both functional and in keeping with the home's historic style. They install custom cabinetry, a new gas range, and a butcher block countertop. They also add new lighting fixtures that mimic the look of early 20th-century lighting.

Another major project in this episode is the renovation of the home's bathrooms. The team installs new plumbing, fixtures, and tile work, while also preserving the original tile floors and vintage fixtures where possible. They also install new glass shower enclosures, which provide a modern touch while also showcasing the original tile work.

Throughout the episode, the team also tackles a number of smaller projects, such as repairing and refinishing original woodwork, installing new lighting fixtures, and painting the interior and exterior of the home. They also discuss the importance of preserving historic homes, both for their architectural and cultural significance.

Overall, "Arts and Crafts From Top to Bottom" is an engaging and informative episode of This Old House. It showcases the team's dedication to craftsmanship and preservation, while also highlighting the challenges and rewards of renovating a historic home for modern living.