Ep 5. A Laurel Hug

A Laurel Hug is the fifth episode of the fifth season of Home Town, a popular home renovation and restoration show that airs on HGTV. The show focuses on the husband and wife team of Ben and Erin Napier, who live in Laurel, Mississippi. In each episode, they help families renovate historic homes in their small town, preserving the charm and character of the houses while updating them for modern living.

In this episode, a couple from Washington D.C. named Laurel and Chris have decided to move to Laurel, Mississippi, where they hope to find a slower pace of life and a more affordable cost of living. They have found a charming cottage in a quiet neighborhood, but the house needs a lot of work. Laurel and Chris are drawn to the history and character of the house, but they need help bringing it up-to-date and making it livable for their growing family.

Ben and Erin take on the challenge of renovating the house, focusing on a few key areas. The front porch is in disrepair, so they replace the old flooring and add new columns and railing. They also install a porch swing, adding to the home's southern charm. Inside, the kitchen is in desperate need of an update. Ben and Erin remove the old cabinets and replace them with custom-made ones that match the character of the house. They also re-tile the backsplash and add new countertops and appliances.

One major issue with the house is the lack of storage space. Ben and Erin come up with a creative solution to this problem by converting an unused hallway into a small mudroom. They install new cabinets, a bench, and hooks for coats and bags. The mudroom not only adds much-needed storage, but it also creates a functional and attractive entryway into the home.

Another area that needs attention is the master bedroom. The room is small and cramped, so Ben and Erin decide to knock down a wall to create a more spacious and open floor plan. They also add a new closet and install a new ceiling fan. The result is a beautiful and comfortable master suite that is perfect for Laurel and Chris.

Throughout the episode, Ben and Erin work closely with Laurel and Chris to ensure that the renovation meets their needs and tastes. They listen carefully to their ideas and concerns and incorporate them into the design. Laurel and Chris are thrilled with the result, and they express their gratitude to Ben and Erin for helping them make their dream of a new home in Laurel a reality.

In addition to the renovation work, the episode also highlights some of the local businesses and attractions in Laurel. Ben and Erin take Laurel and Chris to a local pottery studio where they create their own bowls, and they visit a nearby farm where they pick blueberries and learn about sustainable agriculture. These scenes showcase the unique charm and character of Laurel, Mississippi, and provide a backdrop for the renovation work that Ben and Erin are doing.

Overall, A Laurel Hug is a heartwarming and inspiring episode of Home Town. It showcases the beauty and potential of historic homes and the importance of preserving them for future generations. It also highlights the importance of community and connection, both in the renovation work and in the local businesses and attractions of Laurel, Mississippi. Viewers are sure to be inspired by the creativity and ingenuity of Ben and Erin and the joy and gratitude of Laurel and Chris.