This Old House Season 8 Episode 3 The Reading House - 3

The Reading House - 3 is the 8th season episode of the iconic home renovation show This Old House. This episode follows the renovation of an 1872 Victorian farmhouse located in Reading, Massachusetts. The homeowners, a couple with two young children, have been living in the house for a few years and want to restore some of its original charm while also making it more functional for their modern lifestyle.

To start off the episode, the host introduces the house and its history, pointing out some of the unique features of the Victorian architectural style. The homeowners then give a tour of the house, pointing out some of the areas they want to improve. Their wish list includes a new kitchen, updated bathrooms, and a more open floor plan.

The first step in the renovation process is to remove some of the walls on the first floor to create a more open living area. This involves some structural work, which the contractors explain in detail. They also talk about how they're going to preserve some of the original features of the house, such as the crown molding and hardwood floors.

Next, the focus shifts to the kitchen. The homeowners want a more modern, functional kitchen that still has some of the Victorian charm of the rest of the house. The contractors talk about the design process and show some of the elements they're planning to incorporate, such as a farmhouse sink and custom cabinetry.

One of the challenges of renovating an old house is dealing with outdated plumbing and electrical systems. The contractors explain how they're going to update these systems while also making sure they blend in with the rest of the house. They also talk about some of the energy-efficient features they're adding, such as LED lighting and a new HVAC system.

Another important aspect of the renovation is the bathrooms. The homeowners want to update both the master bathroom and the main bathroom on the second floor. The contractors explain how they're going to create a more modern, spa-like feel while still keeping some of the original features, such as the clawfoot tub.

Throughout the episode, the contractors and homeowners interact and discuss different design options. The homeowners are very involved in the process and offer valuable input. They also talk about the challenges of living in a house while it's being renovated, such as the dust and noise.

In addition to the main renovation work, the episode also features some smaller projects, such as restoring an old built-in cabinet and creating a custom banquette in the kitchen. These smaller projects add character to the house and show how even small changes can make a big impact.

Overall, The Reading House - 3 is an informative and entertaining episode of This Old House. It offers a glimpse into the process of renovating an old house while also giving tips and ideas for anyone looking to update their own home. The homeowners' enthusiasm and the contractors' expertise make for a great combination, and viewers will be inspired by the transformation of this beautiful old farmhouse.