This Old House Season 29 Episode 23 New Orleans Project 07

In season 29, episode 23 of This Old House, titled New Orleans Project 07, the team takes on a massive renovation project in New Orleans, Louisiana. The episode begins with an overview of the project's progress so far and a glimpse into the continued challenges they face due to the home's historic nature and the hurricane damage it suffered.

The homeowners, Laurie and Jeff, have worked closely with the team to preserve the historic charm of their 120-year-old double shotgun home while also adding modern amenities and updating the space for their family's needs. The crew starts by installing new drywall and insulation throughout the house and repairing areas of rot and damage.

Next, the team moves on to the kitchen area, which had been completely gutted in previous episodes. They run into some trouble with the ceiling height, which isn't quite high enough for the desired cabinetry design. To solve this challenge, the team decides to raise the ceiling by removing some of the existing framing. This creates the necessary space for the new and improved layout of the kitchen, including a larger island and new appliances.

During the renovation process, the team discovers an area under the stairs that had previously been closed off and unused. They see potential in this space and decide to convert it into a small powder room. Since the stairs are located in the center of the house, adding a bathroom creates a convenient option for guests.

The team also tackles the addition of a new HVAC system, which presents its own set of challenges due to the age and layout of the home. With some creative thinking and strategic ductwork placement, the team is able to install a new system that can properly heat and cool the home.

Another unique aspect of this renovation is the addition of a "shotgun deck" on the back of the house. Shotgun decks were once a popular architectural feature in New Orleans, and the crew works to recreate this style on Laurie and Jeff's home. It's a challenging project due to the narrow lot and precise measurements needed, but with careful planning and execution, the team is able to build a beautiful deck that matches the home's style and allows the family to comfortably enjoy their outdoor space.

As the episode comes to a close, the team works on adding the finishing touches to the home, including paint, flooring, and lighting. The homeowners are thrilled with the progress and excited to see their home's historic charm restored and updated with modern conveniences.

This episode of This Old House showcases the team's expertise and dedication as they navigate the challenges of renovating a historic home while still meeting the needs of a modern family. Their attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving skills are on full display throughout the episode, making it a must-watch for any fan of home renovation and historic preservation.