Ep 14. Arlington Arts & Crafts | Shiplap for a Ship Shape House

In season 38, episode 14 of the popular home improvement show "This Old House," titled "Arlington Arts & Crafts | Shiplap for a Ship Shape House," viewers are taken on a transformative journey as the team works on restoring an old Arts & Crafts-style home in Arlington.

The episode begins with the crew discussing the plans for updating the exterior of the house. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor meet with the homeowners, who have a deep appreciation for the home's historic charm and are excited about the upcoming renovations. They express their desire to maintain the Arts & Crafts aesthetic while also adding some modern touches to improve functionality and energy efficiency.

As the project kicks off, Tom and Kevin focus on the exterior of the house. They embark on repairing and replacing the shiplap siding to give the home a fresh and rejuvenated appearance. Shiplap, a popular siding material known for its overlapping wooden boards, adds both character and durability to the house. The team carefully removes the old siding, paying close attention to preserving the original architectural details.

Meanwhile, painting contractor Mauro Henrique joins the homeowners to explore some options for the home's color palette. With an appreciation for the Arts & Crafts style, they aim to select a historically accurate color scheme that complements the house's unique features. Mauro shares his expertise, offering suggestions to create an eye-catching curb appeal.

Inside the house, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey focuses on updating the bathrooms. He meets with the homeowners to discuss their vision for these spaces, which will blend vintage charm with contemporary convenience. Richard examines the existing plumbing systems and designs a plan to optimize functionality while preserving the original fixtures. The homeowners are thrilled to see their vision taking shape.

Meanwhile, master carpenter Jeff Sweenor and apprentices Morgan and Nathan continue their work in the kitchen. They carefully install custom cabinetry, paying meticulous attention to every detail. The team discusses the importance of utilizing every inch of space efficiently, ensuring that the kitchen becomes the heart of the home. With their skills and craftsmanship, they successfully breathe new life into the outdated space.

As the episode progresses, electrical contractor Heath Eastman joins the crew and takes on the task of upgrading the home's electrical system. He carefully replaces old wiring and fixtures, ensuring that the home will meet modern safety standards. Heath explains the importance of proper electrical work and addresses specific challenges related to the house's unique design.

Back outside, Tom and Kevin focus on the landscaping, working together to create an inviting and functional outdoor space. They discuss different landscaping techniques, such as incorporating paths and borders, as well as selecting appropriate plants to enhance the overall beauty of the house. The homeowners eagerly participate in the process, sharing their ideas and preferences to personalize their surroundings.

Finally, as the episode comes to a close, the crew reflects on the progress they have made so far. The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation and express their gratitude for the skill and dedication of the entire team. They are eager to see the final result and enjoy their revitalized Arlington Arts & Crafts home.

Overall, episode 14 of "This Old House" showcases the meticulous restoration efforts on a beautiful Arts & Crafts-style home in Arlington. Viewers witness the team's attention to detail, commitment to historic preservation, and the seamless integration of modern amenities. With each improvement, the house evolves into a more beautiful, functional, and energy-efficient dwelling, proving that combining a respect for history with a vision for the future can create a truly remarkable home.