Ep 1. Newton GenNEXT | A House for the Next Generation
- October 7, 2017
This Old House season 39 episode 1, titled "Newton GenNEXT | A House for the Next Generation," follows a family in Newton, Massachusetts as they tear down their existing home and build a new, energy-efficient house tailored to meet their specific needs. The family consists of a couple with two young children and a grandmother who lives with them.
The episode begins with the demolition of the family's old home and the excavation of the site for the new house. The project manager, Tom Silva, and the host, Kevin O'Connor, explain the challenges they face in building a new home on the same lot. They need to work around the old foundation, the trees surrounding the site, and the neighbors' homes.
The family has a long list of requirements for their new home, including a large kitchen and dining area, a home office, an area for the children to play, and a private suite for the grandmother. They also want the house to be energy-efficient, with features such as solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, and a smart home system that can control the temperature, lighting, and security.
To meet these requirements, Tom and his team use innovative building techniques and materials. They construct the house with insulated concrete forms, which are filled with concrete, to create a strong and energy-efficient structure. They also use spray foam insulation, triple-paned windows, and an air-tight building envelope to minimize air leaks and reduce heating and cooling costs.
Throughout the episode, the family members share their excitement and concerns about the project. They worry about the cost and the timeline, and they hope that the new house will meet their expectations and serve their needs for many years to come. They also express their appreciation for the This Old House team and the support they provide in making their dream home a reality.
As the episode comes to a close, the new house begins to take shape, with the roof and walls in place and the windows and doors installed. The family members tour the site and imagine what their life will be like in the finished home. They look forward to hosting friends and family in the spacious kitchen and living room, soaking in the sun on the rooftop deck, and living in a sustainable and comfortable home.
Overall, This Old House season 39 episode 1 is a fascinating and inspiring look at the process of building a new home from scratch. It showcases the expertise and dedication of the This Old House team, as well as the vision and enthusiasm of the homeowners. It also highlights the importance of energy efficiency, sustainability, and smart home technology in modern home design.
