This Old House Season 39 Episode 7 Newton GenNEXT | Approaching Half Way

In season 39, episode 7 of This Old House, titled "Newton GenNEXT | Approaching Half Way," the team continues their exciting journey of renovating a historic 1872 Victorian Italianate house located in Newton, Massachusetts. This remarkable house is being transformed into a stunning modern family home using innovative design and construction techniques.

As the episode begins, it's clear that progress is well underway on the Newton project. Host Kevin O'Connor and general contractor Tom Silva take viewers on a captivating tour of the renovation site to showcase the remarkable transformations that have taken place since the last episode. From the outside, the house starts to reveal its new character with a fresh coat of paint on the exterior, highlighting the intricate architectural details while maintaining its historic charm.

Inside the house, the crew is hard at work installing new mechanical systems that will bring modern comforts while preserving the essence of the original design. Plumbing and electrical rough-ins are being carefully integrated, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new. They discuss the importance of preserving the house's historic integrity by reusing key features such as original woodwork, flooring, and stained glass windows.

The episode dives deep into the intricacies of working with the historic plaster walls found throughout the house. Preservation carpenter Matt Sandham guides viewers through the restoration process, explaining the challenges they encountered and the meticulous techniques employed to repair and preserve these remarkable walls. From carefully removing old layers of paint to meticulously patching cracks and imperfections, this restoration work serves as a testament to the crew's dedication to honoring the house's rich history.

Kevin meets up with interior designer Erica Brooke Green, who shares her vision for the house's interior design. Their discussion sheds light on the thoughtful choices that will bring the historic and contemporary elements together harmoniously. From color palettes to material selection, Erica's expertise plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive and welcoming space that will serve as a comfortable home for a modern family.

Tom Silva and apprentice Erin Genett tackle the complex task of installing a skylight in the master suite. This process reveals the detailed planning and execution required to integrate such a feature seamlessly into a historic structure. From ensuring proper structural support to achieving a perfect seal, the skylight installation showcases the team's commitment to achieving both functionality and beauty in every aspect of the renovation.

In this episode, the team also explores the concept of net-zero energy and its application in the Newton project. Solar contractor Glenn Brickman demonstrates the installation of solar panels on the house's roof, emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy solutions in modern construction. Viewers gain valuable insights into the benefits of harnessing renewable energy and reducing the environmental impact of residential homes.

As the episode draws to a close, host Kevin O'Connor catches up with the homeowners to discuss their thoughts and feelings about the ongoing renovation. This heartfelt conversation offers a glimpse into their excitement and anticipation as they watch their dream home take shape. It serves as a reminder of the emotional significance that a home holds and the transformative power of a well-executed renovation.

Join the This Old House team in season 39, episode 7, as they continue their remarkable journey of breathing new life into the Newton GenNEXT project. With every nail hammered, every wall restored, and every design choice made, the house transforms from a tired, historic structure into a thoughtfully crafted and modern family home. Discover the challenges, triumphs, and creative solutions that make This Old House an enduring beacon of inspiration for homeowners and renovation enthusiasts alike.