This Old House Hour Season 15 Episode 26 Detroit:Rebirth in Detroit

Detroit, once a booming city known for its auto industry, is now struggling with economic decline and widespread abandonment. In this episode of This Old House Hour, the crew visits Detroit to witness the city's rebirth and witness how its residents are working to revitalize their once-thriving community.

The episode begins with host Kevin O'Connor exploring the revitalization of the city's historic Woodbridge neighborhood. A local architect has purchased and restored a stunning Victorian home, and Kevin gets an insider's glimpse of the renovation process. He marvels at the home's intricate details, such as its ornate staircase and plaster moldings.

Next, Kevin meets up with a group of volunteers who are working to turn a vacant lot into a community garden. With Detroit's high levels of food insecurity, this project is critical for providing fresh produce to the surrounding neighborhoods. The volunteers are using permaculture techniques to create an ecosystem that is self-sustaining and easy to maintain.

Meanwhile, in nearby Hamtramck, Tom Silva is helping a homeowner install a new front door. Hamtramck is a diverse community with a sizeable population of immigrant families, and Tom is impressed by the mixture of architectural styles he sees there. He also makes sure to install a special lock that is popular in the area, which adds an extra layer of security to the home.

Back in Detroit, Kevin visits a cutting-edge urban farm that is changing the face of agriculture. The farm is housed inside a repurposed shipping container and uses hydroponic technology to grow a variety of crops. With this innovation, the farm is able to produce fresh vegetables year-round, which is especially important in Detroit's harsh climate.

The crew also visits a local artisan who is transforming abandoned homes into beautiful pieces of furniture. With so many derelict properties in the city, this work is both sustainable and eco-friendly. The artisan takes Kevin through his process and shows him some of the unique pieces he has created.

Finally, Richard Trethewey is in Detroit to help a group of local plumbers install a new water main. Detroit's aging infrastructure has led to numerous problems, including water contamination and flooding. The new main will help ensure the city's residents have access to clean, reliable water.

Throughout the episode, the crew is struck by the resilience and creativity of Detroit's residents. Despite the challenges the city has faced, the people of Detroit are determined to rebuild and reclaim their community. This Old House Hour celebrates their work and shares the inspiring story of Detroit's rebirth.