Ep 1. Pumping Station

In The Restoration Man season 3 episode 1, titled Pumping Station, host George Clarke helps a couple transform a former London water pumping station into a stunning home. The pumping station was originally built in the early 1900s and served the city until it was decommissioned in the 1960s. The couple, Heather and Charles, fell in love with the unique property and decided to take on the challenging restoration project.

The episode begins with George meeting Heather and Charles at the pumping station and exploring the exterior of the building. The couple explains their vision for the property, which includes converting the pump house into a living space and building a modern extension onto the original structure. George is impressed with the couple's ambitious plans and encourages them to stay true to the building's history while also adding their own personal touch.

As the restoration work begins, George and the couple encounter several challenges. The pump house is in a state of disrepair, with years of neglect and vandalism taking their toll. There are holes in the roof, broken windows, and some of the concrete walls are starting to crumble. To make matters worse, the building is located on a floodplain, which means the property is at risk of flooding during heavy rains.

Despite these obstacles, Heather and Charles are determined to make their dream home a reality. They work closely with their contractors to reinforce the building's structure and bring it up to modern building standards. This includes adding insulation, replacing the roof, and installing new windows and doors. They also embrace the building's industrial heritage by leaving some of the original machinery and pipework exposed, which gives the space a raw, edgy look.

One of the most challenging aspects of the restoration is the construction of the modern extension. Heather and Charles want to create a light and airy living space that complements the pump house's rugged character. To achieve this, they opt for a contemporary design that features large windows, a vaulted ceiling, and an open-plan layout. However, building the extension proves to be more difficult than they anticipated, as they need to work around the site's tricky geography and soil conditions.

Throughout the episode, George provides guidance and advice to Heather and Charles, helping them navigate the ups and downs of the restoration process. He commends them for their dedication to preserving the building's history and encourages them to stay focused on their goal. He also offers creative solutions to some of the project's challenges, such as suggesting they use recycled materials to reduce costs.

As the restoration nears completion, Heather and Charles reflect on their journey and feel proud of what they've achieved. They've transformed a derelict water pumping station into a unique and stylish home that pays homage to its industrial past. The end result is a testament to their hard work and determination, as well as George's expert guidance and support.

Overall, The Restoration Man season 3 episode 1 is an inspiring look at the restoration of a historic building and the challenges and rewards that come with it. Heather and Charles' enthusiasm and passion for the project are infectious, and George's expertise and encouragement make for an engaging and informative viewing experience. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in restoration and preservation, as well as for fans of unique and unconventional homes.