Restored Season 5 Episode 8 1893 Victorian

In Restored season 5 episode 8, titled "1893 Victorian," preservationist Brett Waterman takes on an incredible restoration challenge: a 19th-century Victorian home in Redlands, California. The house, built in 1893, is architecturally significant due to its unique combination of Victorian, Queen Anne, and Eastlake styles, but it has fallen into a state of major disrepair.

As Brett begins his work, he discovers a number of unexpected challenges that require creative problem-solving. The first obstacle he faces is the house's structural damage. One of the main beams has completely split, which causes the entire house to sag in the middle. To counteract this, Brett must remove the entire roof and replace the beam before putting the roof back on.

Another major issue arises when Brett realizes that the house's original siding has been stripped away and replaced with vinyl. Brett is determined to restore the home's original appearance, so he spends time researching the appropriate siding materials and techniques. He ultimately decides on a special type of shiplap siding that will match the original Victorian look as closely as possible.

Brett also faces challenges with the home's interior design. Although the house was originally built in 1893, it has undergone numerous renovations over the years. Brett feels strongly that he needs to restore the house to its original style, so he takes on the task of undoing many of these renovations. This includes removing a modern stairway that does not belong in a Victorian home and replacing it with a period-accurate staircase.

Throughout the restoration process, Brett is careful to preserve as much of the house's original character as possible. He discovers that the original front porch railing is still intact, for example, and is able to restore it to its former glory. He also uncovers an original chimney on the side of the house that had been hidden behind drywall. Brett decides to preserve the chimney and incorporate it into the home's design.

One of the most interesting design challenges that Brett faces is how to incorporate modern amenities while maintaining the home's Victorian style. He decides to create a modern kitchen that still feels true to the home's historical roots. This involves installing vintage-style appliances and fixtures, as well as choosing cabinetry and countertops that match the Victorian aesthetic.

As with all of Brett's restorations, the 1893 Victorian project is a labor of love. Throughout the course of the episode, viewers get to see the incredible transformation that takes place. The house goes from a dilapidated and lifeless structure to a stunning example of Victorian architecture that is both beautiful and functional.

In the end, Brett's hard work pays off, and the house is once again a shining example of 19th-century American architecture. With every restoration project he takes on, Brett is able to bring the spirit of the past into the present and preserve a piece of history for future generations to enjoy.