Ep 11. Starting From Scratch in the Old Southside

In Good Bones season 6 episode 11, titled "Starting From Scratch in the Old Southside," mother-daughter duo Karen E Laine and Mina Starsiak Hawk take on a new project in the Southside neighborhood of Indianapolis. The episode begins with the duo exploring an old and run-down three-bedroom, two-bathroom house that was built in 1900. Despite the numerous issues with the property, Karen and Mina see the potential in the home's original features and decide to take on the challenge of transforming it into a beautiful and modern living space.

The first step in the renovation process is to gut the entire house and remove all of the damaged and outdated features. The team discovers extensive water damage in the roof, which requires them to remove the entire second floor. However, this setback does not stop Karen and Mina from continuing to work diligently on the project. They focus their efforts on updating the home's wiring and plumbing systems and installing new insulation to increase the home's energy efficiency.

Once the structural issues are resolved, Karen and Mina turn their attention to the design of the home. They aim to retain the historic charm of the house while also adding modern amenities and updating the layout to better suit a contemporary lifestyle. The team decides to reconfigure the home's layout by moving the kitchen to the front of the house, adding a new bathroom upstairs, and creating an open-concept living space that connects the kitchen, dining room, and family room.

Karen and Mina also pay close attention to the home's original details, such as the ornate crown molding and hardwood floors, which they restore to their former glory. They also add numerous stylish and modern touches, such as a shiplap accent wall and a trendy brick backsplash in the kitchen. The team works tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the renovation is completed to the highest standard, down to the smallest details, such as updating the home's light fixtures and hardware.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the project is not without its challenges. The team encounters numerous unforeseen issues, such as a damaged sewer line and a cracked foundation, which require them to adjust their plans and budget accordingly. However, Karen and Mina remain undeterred, and their perseverance pays off in the end as they transform the once-dilapidated house into a beautiful and functional home.

In the closing scenes of the episode, Karen and Mina invite the new homeowners to see the finished product, and their reaction is overwhelmingly positive. The new homeowners are thrilled with their new abode, which perfectly blends historic charm with modern convenience. As Karen and Mina reflect on the renovation, it is clear that the project has been a huge success, and they are proud to have played a role in revitalizing an important piece of Indianapolis history.