Ep 2. 1887 Victorian Mansion

In Restored season 5, episode 2, host Brett Waterman takes on the challenge of restoring a stunning 1887 Victorian mansion in Redlands, California. The three-story home features intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and a grand staircase dating back to the 1800s. Despite the home's impressive history and architectural features, it is in serious need of restoration.

As Brett begins his restoration process, he quickly discovers the extent of the damage done to the home over the years. The foundation is in poor condition, and many of the home's original fixtures have been removed or covered up. Brett must carefully examine each room in the house to determine the best course of action for bringing the home back to its former glory.

One of the major challenges of restoring this Victorian mansion is preserving the home's historical features while also making it livable for a modern family. Brett must find a way to balance the home's heritage with the needs of a contemporary lifestyle. He works closely with his team of designers and architects to come up with creative solutions that preserve the spirit of the home while also making it functional.

One of the standout features of the home is the grand staircase. Brett believes that it is one of the most important pieces in the house, and he is determined to restore it to its original condition. This involves removing layers of paint and repairing some of the damaged woodwork. The finished product is a stunning staircase that serves as the centerpiece of the home.

In addition to the staircase, the home's stained glass windows are another key feature that Brett works to restore. Many of the windows had been covered up or replaced with modern glass. Brett and his team carefully research the history of the home to find the original designs for the windows. They then work with a modern stained glass artist to recreate the original designs, resulting in windows that are both historically accurate and stunningly beautiful.

As the restoration nears completion, Brett is faced with the challenge of maintaining the integrity of the home while also incorporating modern technology and conveniences. He works with his team to install a new heating and cooling system that will keep the home comfortable while also being energy-efficient. The team also creates a gourmet kitchen that fits seamlessly into the historic space.

In the end, Brett and his team succeed in restoring the 1887 Victorian mansion to its former glory. The home's historical features are carefully preserved, while modern amenities and conveniences are added to make the home livable for a contemporary family. The finished product is a stunning example of the balance between heritage and modernization, and a testament to Brett's skills as a restoration expert.