This Old House Season 22 Episode 14 The Charlestown House - 14

The Charlestown House - 14

In this episode of This Old House, the team takes on an exciting new project at the Charlestown House. Located in the historic Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, this 18th-century home is in need of a complete restoration to bring it back to its former glory.

The episode opens with host Kevin O'Connor and master carpenter Norm Abram discussing the challenges they will face throughout the restoration process. The Charlestown House is a perfect example of early American architecture, featuring unique details and craftsmanship that must be preserved while making necessary repairs.

The first order of business is tackling the exterior of the house. Norm leads the team in carefully removing the old siding, being mindful not to damage any historical features. As they remove layers upon layers of material, they uncover some hidden treasures — beautifully preserved original clapboard siding that will be restored and reused.

Next, the crew turns their attention to the foundation of the house. The team works to reinforce and repair the existing foundation, ensuring the stability and longevity of the structure. Kevin consults with a local expert on historical preservation to ensure they are using the appropriate techniques and materials for this significant aspect of the restoration process.

Inside the house, general contractor Tom Silva takes charge of the plumbing and electrical updates. The Charlestown House has outdated systems that are in desperate need of an upgrade. Tom carefully plans the rerouting of pipes and wires to accommodate modern fixtures and appliances without compromising the historical integrity of the home.

The team then moves on to restoring the historic fireplaces scattered throughout the house. These fireplaces were once the heart of the home, providing warmth and a gathering place for its occupants. Norm and Tom work together to repair the masonry, replace damaged bricks, and restore the intricate woodwork surrounding each fireplace.

Meanwhile, landscape contractor Roger Cook works on enhancing the exterior surroundings of the Charlestown House. He carefully selects and plants trees and shrubs that are native to the region, creating a landscape that is both aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with the historical context of the house.

As the restoration progresses, the team encounters unforeseen challenges. Hidden water damage and structural issues require additional repairs and adjustments. The experts band together to find innovative solutions that preserve the historical integrity of the house while addressing these unexpected problems.

Throughout the episode, the team also pays homage to the rich history of the Charlestown neighborhood. They include segments exploring the neighborhood's origins, featuring interviews with local historians and longtime residents who share stories and insights into the district's architectural heritage.

In the final stages of the restoration, the team focuses on the finishing touches. Painters meticulously apply historically accurate paint colors to the exterior and interior surfaces, highlighting the timeless elegance of the home. Decorative details, such as cornices and moldings, are skillfully repaired or replicated to match the original designs.

This Old House Season 22, Episode 14, is an inspiring and educational installment that showcases the passion and expertise of the team as they restore the Charlestown House to its former glory. The episode serves as a reminder of the value of historical preservation and the artistry of early American craftsmanship.