This Old House Hour Season 12 Episode 11 The Arlington Italianate | Concrete Jungle

In season 12 episode 11 of This Old House Hour, viewers are taken on a journey through the restoration of a stunning Italianate house in Arlington, Massachusetts. The hosts, Tom Silva and Kevin O'Connor, begin by examining the exterior of the house, paying special attention to the unique architectural features that make it an Italianate. They also explore the property, which includes a large backyard and plenty of ornamental trees and shrubs.

Inside the house, the focus turns to the kitchen and how it can be updated without sacrificing the character of the old house. Tom and Kevin meet with the homeowners to discuss their vision for the space and offer suggestions for how it can be transformed into a modern, functional kitchen while still maintaining the unique charm of the Italianate style. They also discuss the different types of cabinets, countertops, and appliances that are available, and how they can be used to create a cohesive, timeless design.

Next, Tom and Kevin turn their attention to the basement, which is currently being used as a storage space but has the potential to become a useful living area. They discuss the different types of flooring, lighting, and wall treatments that can be used to transform the space into a comfortable, inviting area for relaxation or entertainment. They also explore the possibilities of adding a bathroom and other amenities to make the basement a true extension of the living space in the house.

The second part of the episode, titled "Concrete Jungle," takes viewers on a different kind of journey, this time to a suburban neighborhood in Somerville, Massachusetts. Here, the focus is on a residential landscape design project that involves transforming a barren, concrete-covered backyard into a lush, green oasis.

Tom and Kevin meet with the homeowners to discuss their vision for the backyard and offer suggestions for how it can be transformed into a functional, beautiful outdoor space. They discuss different types of plants, trees, and grasses that are suitable for the local climate and soil conditions, and how they can be used to create a variety of different outdoor environments, including a vegetable garden, a seating area, and a play space for children.

Throughout the episode, Tom and Kevin offer valuable insights into the process of restoring and renovating historic homes, as well as practical tips for transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful, livable environments. Whether you are a homeowner looking to update your own property or simply enjoy the satisfying process of watching a restoration come to life, This Old House Hour season 12 episode 11 is sure to captivate and inspire.