This Old House Season 27 Episode 12 Cambridge, MA 12

This Old House season 27 episode 12, titled "Cambridge, MA 12," follows the renovation and restoration of an 1887 Queen Anne Victorian house located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The episode begins with an introduction to the project's architect, Brian Boyle, and the homeowners, Chris and Katie. They discuss the challenges of preserving the historical character of the home while updating it with modern amenities and energy-efficient features.

The first order of business is repairing the home's foundation, which had settled and caused significant damage throughout the structure. The team uses a combination of traditional masonry techniques and modern materials to strengthen the foundation and stabilize the house.

Next, the focus shifts to restoring the home's exterior, which had deteriorated over the years. The team carefully removes the old, damaged siding and replaces it with new, historically accurate materials that match the house's original design.

Inside the house, the crew works on updating the electrical and plumbing systems to meet modern building codes and improve energy efficiency. They also tackle the task of restoring the home's original woodwork, including the grand staircase and intricate ceiling medallions.

One of the most challenging aspects of the renovation is updating the kitchen, which had not been updated since the 1950s. The team works closely with the homeowners to design a modern, functional space that still complements the home's Victorian style.

As the renovation nears completion, the team turns their attention to the landscaping and outdoor spaces. They add new plantings and hardscaping features that improve the curb appeal of the home and create an inviting outdoor living area.

Throughout the episode, the team is careful to preserve the unique character of the home while updating it for modern living. The homeowners are thrilled with the results, and the episode ends on a celebratory note as they move back in and begin to enjoy their beautifully restored Victorian home.