Ep 8. 1922 American Colonial Arts and Crafts

In season 1 episode 8 of Restored, an antique home in Pasadena is getting a much-needed update with host Brett Waterman’s help. The 1922 American Colonial Arts and Crafts house boasts intricate details like tapered columns, curved porch railings, and hand-carved mantels, but the home’s age has caught up to it, leaving it in need of a seismic upgrade and updated electrical and plumbing systems.

Waterman works closely with the homeowners to strike a balance between honoring the home’s original character and functionality that is relevant for modern living. He finds solutions for a difficult floor plan that includes a choppy layout from multiple additions made over the years and small bedrooms that require creative space-saving ideas.

As he opens up some walls, Waterman discovers that the interior of the home was originally painted in historic colors like ochre, olive green, and burnt sienna, so he decides to bring some of those back into the design. He also takes inspiration from period details, such as the home’s original door hardware, to showcase the best features of the home’s original architecture.

One of the most noteworthy features of the restoration is the paneling in the entryway. Originally, the paneling was painted over and Waterman removes the paint to discover gorgeous old growth Douglas fir wood. While many would have opted for a more polished look, Waterman embraces the rough-hewn quality of the wood and decides to preserve it, complete with saw marks and knots.

The kitchen and bathrooms receive a complete overhaul, with new appliances, fixtures, and finishes, but Waterman doesn’t forget about the little details, including saving the original hexagonal tile in the bathroom and installing copper plates for the outlets and light switches in the kitchen.

Throughout the episode, Waterman emphasizes the importance of keeping a home’s history intact when it comes to renovation and restoration. He mentions that while trends and styles may come and go, there is value in preserving the workmanship and craft of bygone eras. His approach to the Pasadena home is a testament to that philosophy and serves as a reminder to viewers that we can honor the past while still enjoying modern amenities.

Restored season 1 episode 8 is a fascinating look at the restoration process of a historic home and the difficulties that come with balancing preservation and modernization. Waterman’s passion for uncovering a home’s history and highlighting its best features is evident throughout the episode, and viewers are sure to be inspired by his attention to detail and love for the craft.