Ep 19. Brookline mid-century modern house: eight is enough stairways

In season 40, episode 19 of This Old House, the team takes on a Brookline mid-century modern house with a unique challenge: eight stairways. The homeowners, a family of four, have lived in the house for several years but are now ready to tackle the outdated and inefficient layout. The team begins by assessing the stairs, which are scattered throughout the house and range in size and style. Some of the stairways are narrow and steep, while others are wide and blocky. The homeowners hope to unify the stairs and create a safer, more cohesive look.

The first step is to remove all the existing stairs and assess the structure of the house. The team discovers that some of the stairways were added later and are not properly supported. They install new supporting beams and joists before beginning to build the new stairs. Each stairway is designed to fit the space and match the style of the house. Some of the stairs are floating, with metal supports hidden within the walls, while others are more traditional with a central stringer.

The team also works to create a more open floor plan throughout the house. They remove several walls and create larger openings between rooms. The result is a bright, airy space with better flow. The homeowners plan to use the newly opened space for entertaining and enjoying time as a family.

As part of the renovation, the team also updates the kitchen and bathrooms. The old kitchen was dark and cramped, with outdated appliances and finishes. The team installs new windows to let in more natural light and adds an island for more prep space. The new kitchen is modern and functional, with sleek countertops and high-end appliances. The bathrooms are also updated with new fixtures and finishes, adding to the overall modern feel of the house.

Throughout the renovation, the team faces several challenges, including working around the family's busy schedule and dealing with unexpected structural issues. However, they are able to overcome these obstacles and create a beautiful, functional home that the homeowners can enjoy for years to come.

Overall, season 40, episode 19 of This Old House is a must-watch for anyone interested in home renovation and design. The team's innovative solutions and attention to detail make for a compelling and informative episode. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or simply enjoy seeing the transformation of a house, this episode is sure to inspire.