Ep 9. Catwalk Craziness

In this episode of Bargain Mansions, Season 2, Episode 9, titled "Catwalk Craziness," host and designer Tamara Day takes on the renovation of a grand home with an almost 100-year history in Kansas City's historic Hyde Park neighborhood.

The home, which was originally built in 1922, has over 5,000 square feet of living space with six bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. The homeowner, a fashion model and designer, purchased the home for its beautiful architecture and historical significance, but it has since fallen into disrepair.

The episode begins with Tamara and her team starting the demolition process, which is a daunting task considering the home's size and the amount of work that needs to be done. The team discovers a treasure trove of original features including plaster crown moldings, vintage light fixtures, and original bathroom tiles that have been hidden behind layers of previous renovations. Tamara is thrilled to see such beautiful original features and decides to incorporate them into her design plan.

The major challenge of the renovation is to make the home's layout more functional and suited to modern living. Tamara decides to remove walls and expand rooms to create a more open floor plan. She also creates a large chef's kitchen with custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and a large island that is perfect for entertaining.

In keeping with the homeowner's passion for fashion, Tamara creates a dramatic walk-in closet complete with custom shelving, a chandelier, and a full-length mirror. She also transforms an awkward hallway into a stunning runway with custom wallpaper and lighting.

One of the most impressive transformations that takes place in this episode is the creation of a luxurious spa bathroom. Tamara takes a dated bathroom with a small shower and tub and completely transforms it into a luxurious retreat complete with a large soaking tub, a spacious walk-in shower, and a double vanity with plenty of storage.

In addition to the major renovations, Tamara also pays attention to the smaller details that make a big impact. She replaces old hardware with new pieces that are more in keeping with the home's original style, and she adds custom touches like a reclaimed wood paneling wall and a vintage-inspired chandelier.

Throughout the episode, Tamara and her team encounter a variety of challenges including issues with plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. However, Tamara's experience and expertise as a designer and builder allow her to navigate these challenges with ease.

Overall, "Catwalk Craziness" is a fascinating episode of Bargain Mansions that showcases the incredible transformations that are possible with the right combination of vision and skill. Tamara's ability to seamlessly blend modern design elements with the original historical features of the home is truly impressive, and the end result is a stunning and functional space that is perfectly suited to the homeowner's needs and style.