This Old House Season 4 Episode 19 The Arlington House - 19
- October 28, 1982
In episode 19 of season 4, titled "The Arlington House - 19," the renowned home improvement series This Old House continues to follow the renovating journey of the historic Arlington House in Arlington, Massachusetts. Host Bob Vila and the expert crew venture further into the restoration project, showcasing various aspects of the meticulous process involved in reviving this iconic New England dwelling.
As the episode begins, the team focuses on the exterior of the house, specifically the facade and front porch. Viewers are given an up-close look at the careful repairs and renovations being carried out to restore the original charm and character of the Arlington House. The crew meticulously prep the damaged areas, addressing issues such as rot, peeling paint, and weathered wood. Through traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, they showcase the intricate work involved in rejuvenating the house's unique architectural features.
Moving inside, the episode dives into the significant progress made within the Arlington House. Bob Vila guides viewers through the different rooms and highlights the intricacies of restoring the interior to its former glory. From restoring crown moldings to repairing original hardwood floors, every detail is carefully considered and executed. The crew also addresses challenges that arise during the restoration process, offering insights into problem-solving techniques and the importance of preserving historical authenticity.
In this episode, the focus shifts to the kitchen renovation. Bob Vila and the experts delve into the transformation of this essential space, updating it to meet modern standards while staying true to the house's traditional aesthetic. With attention to detail, they tackle challenges such as reconfiguring the layout to optimize functionality and installing new appliances that seamlessly blend with the historical charm of the home. Viewers witness the progression of the kitchen's renovation, from demolition to the installation of custom cabinetry and countertops, creating a beautiful blend of old and new.
The episode also explores the various design decisions made throughout the Arlington House renovation, shedding light on how the team balances modern conveniences with maintaining the authenticity of the historic dwelling. From selecting period-appropriate fixtures and furnishings to considering color palettes that reflect the home's original era, the experts demonstrate their expertise in harmonizing old and new elements.
In addition to the interior and kitchen renovations, the episode highlights the progress made in other areas of the Arlington House. The crew undertakes the meticulous restoration of the various bathroom spaces, showcasing the process of repairing vintage tiles, salvaging original fixtures, and creating functional bathrooms that embrace the home's historical legacy. Furthermore, the episode briefly touches upon the ongoing work in the basement, revealing glimpses of the efforts being made to revive this often-underappreciated space.
Throughout the episode, viewers are encouraged to appreciate the historical significance of the Arlington House and understand the importance of preserving cultural heritage through diligent restoration. The dedicated team of experts on This Old House shares their passion for revitalizing and maintaining historical homes while providing viewers with valuable insights and methods they can apply to their own renovation projects.
"The Arlington House - 19" is a captivating episode that showcases the challenging yet rewarding process of restoring a historic home. With a combination of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and respect for the past, the team on This Old House demonstrates their unwavering commitment to preserving the rich architectural and cultural heritage encapsulated within the walls of the Arlington House.