Ep 1. Arlington Arts & Crafts | Arts and Crafts Class Begins

This Old House season 38 episode 1 titled "Arlington Arts & Crafts | Arts and Crafts Class Begins" is a must-watch episode for all architecture enthusiasts. This premiere episode takes the viewers on a journey to Arlington, Massachusetts, where the cast and crew of the show are tasked with renovating a 100-year-old Arts and Crafts-style home.

As soon as the episode starts, the viewers are introduced to the homeowners, a couple who have owned the house for a decade and have decided to renovate it to meet their current needs. The couple has hired a team of architects, designers, and contractors who will work hand in hand with the cast and crew of This Old House to bring this old house back to life.

The first part of the episode focuses on the design stage, where the team of architects and designers work closely with the homeowners to come up with a design plan that would incorporate all the modern amenities without compromising the house's original style and character. The team discusses the different options available to them and weighs the pros and cons of each to ensure that they come up with a plan that meets the homeowners' goals, budget, and timeline.

In the second part of the episode, the viewers are introduced to Tommy Silva, the contractor for the project, who gives them a tour of the house to highlight the areas that need the most attention. Tommy explains the various challenges that he foresees during the renovation process, such as the uneven floors, sagging ceilings, and old plumbing system, among others.

The episode also focuses on the beginning of the Arts and Crafts class, which is one of the highlights of this season. The class is a unique opportunity for the viewers to learn about the Arts and Crafts style, its history, and how it influenced the design of the Arlington house. The class is hosted by the show's master carpenter, Norm Abram, who shares his knowledge and expertise on the subject and guides the class through various projects that showcase the Arts and Crafts style.

The viewers can also learn about the different tools, materials, and techniques used in the Arts and Crafts style, making it a valuable learning experience for anyone interested in architecture or woodworking.

Throughout the episode, the viewers get a glimpse of some of the challenges that the team encounters during the renovation process, such as the discovery of hidden doorways and the need for structural reinforcements. The team also provides helpful tips and tricks on how to work around these challenges to ensure a successful renovation.

As the episode comes to an end, the viewers are left with a sense of anticipation and excitement for what's to come in the upcoming episodes. This Old House season 38 episode 1 has set the tone for an exciting season that promises to be filled with renovation challenges, design insights, and educational opportunities.