Ep 18. Demo Time | The Charleston Houses 2018

This Old House, now in its 39th season, takes us on another thrilling journey in episode 18 titled "Demo Time | The Charleston Houses 2018." In this captivating installment, the show sets its sights on the stunning historic city of Charleston and delves into the intricate process of rehabilitating two charming Southern homes.

In this highly anticipated episode, the cast and crew of This Old House venture deep into the heart of Charleston's captivating historic district to showcase their expertise in preservation, restoration, and renovation. The episode wastes no time in immersing viewers in the rich history and unique architectural heritage of this beloved city.

The first stop on our journey is a Federal-style home dating back to the early 1800s, graciously welcoming us with its elegant facade. This abode stands as a testament to Charleston's grand past and has a wealth of stories to share. The team begins by carefully documenting every nuance of the home, from the intricately detailed plasterwork to the original heart pine floors. With the utmost respect for the home's history, the crew embarks on a meticulous process of restoring and preserving its unique charm.

Meanwhile, in another corner of Charleston, we encounter a classic Charleston Single House, a style that has defined the city for generations. This iconic home beckons with its distinctive side piazza, inviting us to explore its hidden treasures. The crew laboriously evaluates the structure, identifying areas in need of restoration and developing comprehensive plans to safeguard its authentic character.

Back at the Federal-style house, the team expertly tackles the daunting task of updating the wiring without compromising the historical integrity of the home. Throughout the episode, the crew showcases their creative problem-solving skills, effortlessly blending modern amenities with traditional craftsmanship. From ensuring code compliance to installing energy-efficient systems, they leave no stone unturned in their mission to seamlessly marry the old and the new.

In the spirit of preserving Charleston's architectural heritage, the episode also takes us on a mesmerizing tour of a local wood mill. Here, the team unveils the intricacies of transforming salvaged wood into crown molding, baseboards, and casings that align perfectly with the home's original design. This behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and dedication involved in restoring historic homes provides viewers with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous work that goes into preserving Charleston's irreplaceable architectural treasures.

Back at the Charleston Single House, the team embarks on an ambitious plan to transform a cramped, outdated kitchen into a space that harmoniously blends cutting-edge design and historical authenticity. With a keen eye for detail, the crew selects materials that effortlessly meld the old with the new, ensuring that the heart of the home retains its timeless appeal.

Throughout the episode, the cast and crew of This Old House interact with local artisans, showcasing their remarkable skills and underscoring the importance of supporting craftsmanship in the community. From expert plasterers to talented joiners, these skilled tradespeople breathe new life into Charleston's historic homes, ensuring that this proud city's architectural legacy endures for generations to come.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left in awe of the transformation that has taken place in these two cherished Charleston homes. The team's dedication, passion, and expertise shine through every detail, demonstrating that with the right amount of care, historical preservation and modern renovations can coexist harmoniously.

Episode 18 of This Old House's 39th season brilliantly encapsulates the essence of Charleston's rich architectural heritage. Through its compelling narrative and breathtaking visuals, the show not only educates viewers about the intricacies of renovation and preservation but also celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship inherent in historic homes. Get ready to be inspired and captivated by "Demo Time | The Charleston Houses 2018," an episode that will leave you yearning to preserve history, one home at a time.