Ep 1. House of Lucky Charms

Restored by the Fords is an American home renovation show that first premiered on HGTV in 2018. The show follows siblings Leanne and Steve Ford as they revamp outdated homes in their hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In each episode, the duo takes on a new project, breathing new life into houses that have seen better days. Season 2 of the show premiered on March 19, 2019, and the first episode, titled "House of Lucky Charms," is a delightful addition to the series.

"House of Lucky Charms" follows Leanne and Steve as they take on a unique challenge: renovating a 1920s bungalow for a client who is obsessed with all things Irish. The house, which is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh, is in desperate need of an update. The interior is outdated and cramped, making it difficult for the homeowners to entertain guests. The exterior is similarly unimpressive, with a lackluster porch and a neglected garden. However, the house has good bones and plenty of potential, which is just the sort of challenge the Fords are looking for.

As the episode begins, Leanne and Steve meet with the homeowners to get a feel for their vision for the house. The couple is passionate about their Irish heritage and wants their home to reflect that. They have a collection of Irish memorabilia, including shamrocks, Celtic knots, and a Blarney Stone, which they want to incorporate into the design. They also hope to create a space that is bright, open, and inviting, with room to host their large extended family.

Leanne and Steve get to work right away, tearing down walls and opening up the space to create a more airy and modern feel. They plan to create a new entryway, expand the kitchen, and add a large island for entertaining. As they work, they discover a series of unexpected design challenges, including outdated electrical wiring and uneven floors. However, they take each challenge in stride, coming up with creative solutions that will make the final product even better than they imagined.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the design process that makes the Fords so successful. Leanne is the creative force behind the duo, with an eye for color and a passion for vintage finds. She scours local thrift stores and antique shops, looking for unique pieces that will add character to the home. Meanwhile, Steve is the practical one, with experience in construction and a talent for problem-solving. He makes sure that every design choice is both beautiful and functional, from the placement of the light fixtures to the layout of the kitchen.

As the episode progresses, viewers watch as the house begins to take shape. The Fords add bold wallpaper, sparkling chandeliers, and custom built-ins that give the house a personality that is uniquely its own. They incorporate the homeowners' Irish collectibles into the design, creating a home that feels both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.

The episode culminates in a stunning reveal, as the homeowners are given a tour of their new space. They are thrilled with the results, marveling at how the Fords were able to create a home that is both beautiful and functional. The new space is warm, inviting, and reflective of the homeowners' unique personality and style.

Overall, "House of Lucky Charms" is a charming and engaging episode of Restored by the Fords that highlights the talent of Leanne and Steve Ford. The Fords' dedication to their craft and their ability to create spaces that are both practical and gorgeous is on full display in this episode. Their work transforms an outdated bungalow into a space that is bright, modern, and bursting with personality. It's the perfect start to an exciting new season of this fantastic home renovation show.