Ep 3. The Open Concept | The Westerly Ranch House

The Westerly Ranch House is the focus of the third episode of season 41 of This Old House. This particular home is located in Woodland Hills, California, and has sat largely untouched for over thirty years. The family residing in the home has grown frustrated with the cramped and outdated layout, and sought out the help of the professionals at This Old House to breathe new life into their space.

The crew's first order of business is to create an open concept living area by removing several walls in the center of the home. This task is easier said than done, as some of the walls in question are load-bearing. The team brings in a structural engineer to assess the situation and devise a plan to safely remove the walls, support the weight of the structure, and create the desired open concept space.

Once the engineer has given the go-ahead, the team gets to work removing the walls, carefully maneuvering around pipes and wiring to avoid damage. With the walls down, the team begins work on installing support beams and columns to ensure that the weight of the home is properly distributed.

With the structural changes complete, attention turns to the design aspects of the renovation. The homeowners have expressed a desire for a light and airy space with a modern feel. The team starts by selecting wood flooring that will flow seamlessly from room to room, unifying the space.

In the kitchen, the team opts for a clean and sleek look with white shaker cabinets, a large island with a waterfall countertop, and modern appliances. The island serves as both a prep space and a casual dining area, with seating for four.

The living room features a custom-built fireplace with a large, decorative mantel. The fireplace is flanked by built-in shelves, perfect for displaying family photos and treasured mementos. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, and a sliding glass door provides access to the backyard.

The dining room is situated just off the kitchen, with a large table that can comfortably seat eight. A statement light fixture hangs above the table, adding a touch of elegance to the space.

In the master suite, the team creates a tranquil oasis for the homeowners to escape to at the end of the day. The bedroom features a soft and calming color palette, with plush carpeting underfoot. The attached bathroom boasts a luxurious shower with built-in benches and a rainfall showerhead.

The final touches of the renovation include landscaping the front and back yards, adding a new fence, and creating a cozy outdoor seating area. The result is a modern, open concept home that is perfect for entertaining and everyday living.

Overall, This Old House season 41 episode 3, The Open Concept | The Westerly Ranch House, showcases the incredible transformation of a dated and cramped home into a bright and spacious living space. From the structural changes to the finishing touches, every detail was carefully planned and executed by the This Old House team to create a stunning final product.