This Old House Season 25 Episode 17 The Concord Cottage - 17

The This Old House team heads to Concord, Massachusetts to take on a renovation project of a small cottage that hasn't been touched in nearly fifty years. The homeowners, who are avid collectors, are looking to update and modernize their home while still maintaining its historic charm.

The team begins by assessing the existing structure and creating a plan to add space and functionality while also preserving the home's original features. They decide to keep the cottage's unique curved roofline and add a new dormer to create more headroom in the upstairs bedrooms. They also plan to add a new porch with columns that match the ones on the original house.

The demo process begins in the cramped kitchen, where the team opens up the space by removing a wall and relocating the sink. They also demo the existing bathroom, which is outdated and cramped. The new bathroom will be expanded and include modern amenities, such as a glass-enclosed shower and a heated floor.

The team encounters some unexpected challenges during the renovation, including hidden asbestos in the walls and floors. They work quickly to safely remove it and continue with the project. They also discover structural issues with the original foundation and work to reinforce it to ensure the home's longevity.

Next, the team focuses on preserving the unique features of the home. They remove the existing plaster and lath walls to reveal the original post-and-beam construction. They carefully clean and restore the beams, which have a beautiful patina from years of use.

To add more functional storage space, the team builds custom bookshelves and cabinetry throughout the home. They also install new windows and doors that mimic the style of the home's original windows.

In the final stages of the renovation, the team focuses on the finishing touches. They paint the walls with a color palette inspired by the homeowner's extensive art collection, and install new light fixtures that complement the style of the home.

Overall, the renovation is a success, and the homeowners are thrilled with the transformed space. The cottage now functions as a modern home while still retaining its unique historic charm.