Ep 2. Grounded Reno
- January 5, 2012
Leave It to Bryan season 1 episode 2, Grounded Reno, follows a young couple who have purchased a fixer-upper home with big renovation dreams. The catch? They are currently living on a tight budget and are unable to afford the necessary repairs to make the home safe and livable.
Enter Bryan Baeumler, a seasoned contractor and host of the show, who takes on the challenge of helping the couple create a functional and stylish home on a budget. The episode starts with Bryan meeting with the couple to assess the home's current state and gather their renovation wishlist.
The couple is eager to create an open-concept living space in the main floor of the home, which currently features several small rooms and a lack of natural light. In addition, they are hoping to build a new back deck that will provide a comfortable outdoor entertaining space.
Bryan takes a moment to review the home's infrastructure, which reveals that there are major electrical, plumbing, and foundation issues that need to be addressed before any cosmetic work can begin. He breaks the news to the couple, explaining that while their design goals are certainly achievable, they will need to adjust their timeline and budget expectations to accommodate the necessary repairs.
Undeterred, the couple agrees to prioritize the necessary fixes and work with Bryan to create a budget-friendly renovation plan. They opt to repurpose some of the existing materials in the home, as well as shop at discount stores to save money on decor and fixtures.
As the renovation progresses, the couple faces new challenges, such as discovering an unforeseen asbestos issue and realizing that their specified cabinetry won't fit within the home's narrow hallways. Bryan steps in to help the couple navigate these issues, bringing in the necessary experts to address any hazardous materials and recommending alternative cabinet solutions that will meet their needs.
Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse at Bryan's process as he oversees the construction crew, meets with vendors, and checks in with the couple to ensure that their vision is being met. The episode concludes with the big reveal of the newly renovated home, complete with a stunning open-concept living space, updated kitchen, and a brand new back deck.
Overall, Grounded Reno is a testament to Bryan's ability to work within a tight budget and prioritize necessary repairs. It also highlights the importance of working with a skilled contractor to ensure that renovation dreams don't turn into a nightmare.
