Ep 4. 1952 Midcentury Masterpiece

In season three, episode four of Restored, titled "1952 Midcentury Masterpiece", host Brett Waterman takes on a unique restoration project: a modernist home built in 1952 in Pasadena, California. The home was designed by the renowned architect Conrad Buff, and Waterman is excited to bring it back to its original glory.

As with many of his projects, Waterman is not just restoring the home, but also telling its story. He digs into the history of the home, meeting with Buff's daughter to learn about the architect and his vision. We see flashbacks to the mid-century, showcasing how the home fit into the aesthetic of the time. Waterman also explores the current neighborhood, which has a mix of restored and modern homes, to understand how the home fits into the greater context of the area.

The home itself is in rough shape when Waterman and his team take on the project. The previous owners had painted over the original tongue and groove wood paneling, added a sunroom in the back that didn't quite fit with the original design, and generally neglected the home. But despite the challenges, Waterman is determined to bring the home back to its former glory.

As always, Waterman takes great care in sourcing materials and finishes that are true to the original design. He finds matching tile for a bathroom remodel, sources new light fixtures that fit the mid-century era, and takes the time to remove layers of paint to find the original wood paneling. But he also has a few surprises up his sleeve. He gives the sunroom a facelift, creating a space that fits better with the original design and even adding a hidden bar for entertaining. He also adds a pool to the backyard, transforming it into an oasis for relaxation.

Of course, there are some challenges along the way. The team discovers some structural issues that need to be addressed, which requires some creative problem-solving. And as always, there are unexpected surprises hidden behind walls and under layers of paint. But Waterman and his team are up to the task, and the end result is a stunning restoration that honors the home's mid-century design while bringing it into the 21st century.

Overall, "1952 Midcentury Masterpiece" is a fascinating look into the history and restoration of a unique piece of architecture. Waterman's passion for restoring homes and telling their stories shines through, and it's clear that he and his team are committed to honoring the original vision of the architect while bringing the home into the modern era.