Ep 26. Saratoga Springs: Up and Away

In This Old House season 44 episode 26, titled "Saratoga Springs: Up and Away," the team heads to the historic town of Saratoga Springs in upstate New York to work on a home renovation project.

The episode starts off with a tour of the charming town and its many Victorian houses, which are known for their unique architecture and decorative details. The house in this episode is no exception, and the team is excited to take on the challenge of bringing it back to its former glory.

The homeowners, a couple with two young children, purchased the house a few years ago and have been slowly renovating it themselves. However, they soon realized that they needed help and turned to This Old House for expertise and guidance.

The first order of business is to update the electrical and plumbing systems, which are outdated and not up to code. The team works to remove old wiring and outdated pipes, replacing them with new, state-of-the-art systems that will ensure the safety and comfort of the family.

Next, the team tackles the kitchen and dining room, which are in desperate need of a makeover. The homeowners are looking for a modern and functional space that can also maintain the historic charm of the house. To deliver on this request, the team installs custom cabinets, new countertops, and a gas range. They also work to restore the original hardwood floors, which have been hidden under layers of carpet for decades.

One of the most exciting parts of the episode is when the team takes on the challenge of converting the attic space into a functional and comfortable living area. This requires the installation of stairs to access the attic, as well as insulation and HVAC systems to ensure that the space is comfortable year-round. The team also works to add new windows and a skylight to bring in more natural light and make the space feel larger.

Throughout the episode, the team works closely with the homeowners to ensure that their vision for the house is achieved. This includes everything from carefully selecting light fixtures and paint colors to making sure that the design of each room is functional and tailored to their lifestyle.

As the episode comes to a close, the team reflects on the transformation that the house has undergone over the course of the renovation. The homeowners are thrilled with the results and grateful for the expertise and guidance that This Old House has provided. The team leaves the house knowing that they have helped to preserve a piece of history and create a beautiful, functional space for a family to enjoy for generations to come.

Overall, this episode of This Old House is a must-watch for fans of renovation shows and lovers of historic architecture. The team's attention to detail and dedication to preserving the original charm of the house is truly impressive, and the end result is a stunning example of what can be achieved with careful planning and expert craftsmanship.