Sweat Equity Season 3 Episode 3 Growing Pains
- January 24, 2009
- 20 min
Growing pains are never something to be overlooked when it comes to houses, and in this episode of Sweat Equity, viewers get a firsthand look at how to address them. The episode begins with host Amy Matthews meeting with a couple who have outgrown their home. They have two young children, and the house simply isn't big enough to accommodate them anymore. They show Amy the areas of the house that are most problematic, including a basement that's far too small for all their belongings and a kitchen that lacks adequate counter space.
Amy's first order of business is to bring in a contractor to assess the situation and come up with a plan. She discusses with the couple their budget and priorities, to ensure that they get the most out of their renovation. The couple has decided that they want to turn their small basement into a play area for their children, so Amy and the contractor come up with a design that will maximize the space available. They will also be adding a half-bathroom to the basement for convenience.
Next, they tackle the kitchen, which is in dire need of an upgrade. Amy and the contractor come up with a plan to completely gut the kitchen and start from scratch. They move the fridge to the opposite wall to allow for more counter space, and install new cabinets and countertops. They also add a custom-built island for additional workspace and storage, and install new appliances.
Throughout the episode, Amy provides expert advice on how to save money on a renovation, without sacrificing quality or style. She suggests repurposing old materials, like the couple's existing cabinets, and gives tips on how to find affordable but stylish light fixtures and other décor elements. She also stresses the importance of choosing materials that are durable, especially in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
As the renovation progresses, Amy checks in with the couple to make sure that they're happy with the progress. They've been able to stay within their budget so far, thanks to Amy's smart design choices and cost-saving tips. The new play area in the basement is coming together nicely, with bright colors and fun details that are just perfect for kids. The couple is especially thrilled with the new half-bathroom, which makes their lives so much easier. They no longer have to trek upstairs every time their children need to use the restroom.
In the end, the renovation is a huge success. The new kitchen is both stylish and functional, with plenty of counter space and storage. The couple is thrilled with the custom island, which has become the centerpiece of their new kitchen. The new basement play area is a hit with their children, who now have plenty of room to play with all their toys. Overall, the renovation has allowed this family to stay in their home for the long haul, rather than having to move to accommodate their growing family. Thanks to Amy's expert advice and guidance, they were able to create a home that's perfect for their needs and their budget.