Ep 2. Arlington Arts & Crafts | A New Look, Inside and Out

This Old House season 38 episode 2, titled "Arlington Arts & Crafts | A New Look, Inside and Out," follows the renovation of a classic turn-of-the-century Arts and Crafts-style home located in Arlington, Massachusetts. The homeowners, a young family with two children, purchased the home and were committed to restoring and updating its original features while also making it more functional for modern living.

In this episode, the This Old House crew focuses on the exterior of the house, beginning with the demolition of an existing porch that was not original to the home. The team then begins work on rebuilding a new, more spacious porch that captures the vintage charm of the original design. They use traditional building techniques and materials to ensure that the new porch fits seamlessly with the existing architecture of the house.

Inside the home, the crew continues work on the kitchen, starting with the installation of custom cabinets made of quarter-sawn oak. The homeowners requested a functional yet classic space, so the team incorporates elements like open shelving and a large island to help create a more practical and adaptable kitchen. They also tackle the challenge of incorporating a traditional Aga range into the modern design, ensuring that it can be used for cooking as well as heating the home during the colder months.

Other updates to the home include the installation of new heating and cooling systems, the creation of a new master suite, and the refurbishment of several original features, including fireplaces and woodwork. Throughout the episode, the This Old House crew offer helpful tips and insights into the renovation process, from choosing the right materials to working with historic homes.

Overall, "Arlington Arts & Crafts | A New Look, Inside and Out" offers an inside look at the restoration of a stunning Arts and Crafts-style home, and how the This Old House team brings new life to a historic property.