Ep 13. The Nantucket House - 13
- December 21, 1996
In season 18 episode 13 of "This Old House" titled "The Nantucket House - 13," the team continues their incredible restoration journey of a historic Nantucket home. Throughout the episode, they tackle various challenges and showcase their exceptional craftsmanship to bring new life to this charming property.
The episode begins with the crew focusing their efforts on the exterior of the house. They demonstrate the meticulous process of carefully restoring the original cedar shingles, ensuring that the new ones match seamlessly with the existing ones. With dedication and precision, they expertly replace damaged shingles and repair any structural issues, ensuring the house's longevity while preserving its authentic charm.
As the team progresses, attention turns to the house's interior, specifically the kitchen. This space holds great importance in any home, and the crew aims to create a beautiful and functional kitchen while respecting the house's historical aesthetic. Master carpenter Norm Abram and general contractor Tom Silva take the lead in this project, showcasing their expertise in cabinetry and woodworking as they craft custom-made shelves, cabinets, and countertops.
Throughout the episode, the show also provides valuable insights into the challenges that come with restoring an old house. The team addresses issues such as outdated plumbing and wiring systems, and they explain the necessary steps to upgrade and modernize these essential elements while staying true to the house's character. This educational aspect of the show allows viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in revitalizing historic properties.
Meanwhile, the crew dives into the restoration of the living room, showcasing their creativity and resourcefulness in transforming this space into an inviting and comfortable area. They carefully select period-appropriate furniture and decor, utilizing a mix of antiques and new finds that perfectly fit the house's overall aesthetic. By combining their design sensibilities with attention to detail, they create a harmonious blend of old and new.
Another exciting aspect of this episode lies in the exploration of Nantucket Island itself. Through interviews with local historians and experts, viewers gain a sense of the island's rich history and its architectural significance. The team takes inspiration from the island's unique characteristics, incorporating them into their restoration efforts, thereby preserving the home's connection to its surroundings.
As the episode progresses, the crew faces unexpected challenges that arise during the restoration process. Whether it's uncovering hidden structural weaknesses or discovering historical artifacts hidden within the walls, they handle these surprises with adaptability and expertise. This unpredictability adds an element of excitement and suspense, keeping viewers engaged and eager to see how the team overcomes these obstacles.
Throughout "The Nantucket House - 13," the show emphasizes the importance of preserving historical homes and the skill and dedication required in doing so. With the crew's unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship and preservation, viewers witness a transformative journey that honors the past while ensuring the future of this remarkable Nantucket house.
In this episode of "This Old House," viewers are immersed in the captivating restoration process of a Nantucket home, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of breathing new life into a historic property. From the exterior to the interior, the team showcases their expertise in preserving the house's unique character while adding modern functionality. With each meticulous step of the restoration, the crew demonstrates their unwavering dedication to honor the past and ensure the longevity of this charming Nantucket house.