This Old House Season 32 Episode 12 Arlington Italianate Project 2014; Old House Discoveries

In season 32 episode 12 of the renowned home renovation series This Old House, the team takes on the challenge of renovating a classic Italianate style house in Arlington, Massachusetts. With its distinctive architecture characterized by tall, narrow windows and ornate cornices, the house presents a unique opportunity for the team to showcase their restoration skills.

The episode begins with a tour of the property, where the team discusses their plans to transform the house into a stunning modern home while preserving its historical elements. The team's lead restoration expert, Norm Abram, explains the importance of paying attention to the details when restoring an old home, such as preserving the original moldings and trim.

One of the major challenges the team faces is the house's outdated electrical system, which needs to be entirely replaced to meet modern safety standards. The electrician, David Marcello, explains the process involved in updating the system, which includes running new wiring and installing new panels.

As the renovation progresses, the team makes several exciting discoveries that showcase the house's history. They uncover an old shoe that had been hidden in the walls, which gives them a glimpse into the past and adds a touch of whimsy to the project. Additionally, they find antique hardware and doors that had been covered up in previous updates, which they carefully remove and reinstall to restore the house's original character.

The team also focuses on restoring the house's exterior, including repairing the roof and gutters and repainting the trim. They explain the importance of using historically accurate materials and colors to maintain the integrity of the house's Italianate style.

Throughout the episode, the team encounters various challenges that require their expertise and creativity to overcome. For example, they need to replace a load-bearing wall, which requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety and stability of the house.

The episode concludes with a tour of the updated interior, which showcases the team's exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each room is transformed into a modern, luxurious space that still pays homage to the house's historical roots.

Overall, season 32 episode 12 of This Old House offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of home restoration. With its unique challenges and exciting discoveries, the episode showcases the team's dedication to preserving the past while creating a beautiful, modern home.