This Old House Hour Season 11 Episode 24 Essex Project, Design for Everyone

The This Old House Hour season 11 episode 24 takes us to Essex, Massachusetts, where the team is working on a home renovation project designed to make living spaces more accessible and comfortable for everyone, regardless of age or mobility limitations.

The Essex Project is all about universal design, which is a holistic approach to creating living spaces that can accommodate people of all ages, sizes, abilities, and disabilities. The team is led by architect Sally DeGan, who specializes in universal design, and contractor Tom Silva, who is known for his expertise in historic home renovations.

The episode starts with an introduction to the homeowners, who are a retired couple with a love for gardening and entertaining. They recently purchased the Essex home, which was built in the 1800s and has great historic charm but is in need of major upgrades to make it more livable for their lifestyle.

Sally and her team have a plan to create a fully accessible and integrated living space that includes a new kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room on the first floor and an updated second floor with a master suite and guest bedroom. The design incorporates wider doorways, lower counters, lever handles, grab bars, and other features that make it easier for everyone to move around and use the space.

Tom and his crew start by tearing down the walls and old fixtures to clear the space. They also strip the old paint from the trim and restore the windows to their original beauty. Meanwhile, Sally works with the homeowners to finalize the design details and choose the finishes for the new features.

One of the highlights of the episode is the kitchen renovation, which features a spacious layout with a large island, custom cabinetry, and energy-efficient appliances. The countertop and backsplash are made of durable and stylish materials that can withstand wear and tear over time. The homeowners are thrilled with the new space and can't wait to host their friends and family.

Another notable aspect of the Essex Project is the use of eco-friendly and sustainable materials throughout the renovation. Sally and her team prioritize the use of recycled and locally sourced materials and energy-efficient fixtures that reduce the environmental impact of the project.

As the renovation progresses, the team encounters some unexpected challenges, including structural issues and plumbing problems. However, they work together to find creative solutions that maintain the integrity of the historic home while still meeting the needs of the homeowners.

The episode ends with a tour of the finished renovation, which showcases the seamless blend of historic charm and modern functionality. The homeowners are thrilled with their newly accessible and beautiful living space, which they describe as their perfect forever home.

Overall, the Essex Project is a testament to the power of universal design to create living spaces that are welcoming and accommodating for everyone. The renovation showcases the expertise and dedication of the This Old House team, who bring historic homes to life while preserving their heritage and character.