Ep 12. Lexington Colonial - Smart Solutions

This Old House Season 36 Episode 12, titled Lexington Colonial - Smart Solutions, follows the renovation of a historic colonial home in Lexington, Massachusetts. The owners of the house aim to modernize the space without sacrificing its architectural integrity, making this renovation a unique and challenging project for the This Old House team.

The episode begins by introducing the owners, who express their desire to incorporate smart home technology throughout the house. To achieve this, the team installs a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system that can be controlled remotely through a mobile app. They also replace the existing lighting system with smart LED lights that can be controlled with voice commands or a mobile app. These updates not only improve the home's functionality but also enhance its energy efficiency.

Throughout the episode, viewers witness the team tackling a variety of renovation projects, including the installation of new plumbing and electrical systems, fireplace restoration, and the creation of a custom-built bookcase. The team carefully considers each design decision to ensure that the updates enhance the home's historic character.

In addition to the technical updates, the episode focuses on the team's efforts to improve the home's curb appeal. They replace the old front door with a beautiful, hand-carved wooden door that matches the home's historic architecture. They also install new windows and re-paint the exterior of the house, adding a fresh coat of cream-colored paint that complements the home's red brick exterior.

Throughout the renovation, the team faces a variety of challenges, including unexpected plumbing issues and the discovery of lead-based paint in the home's original woodwork. Despite these setbacks, they remain committed to their goal of bringing modern amenities to this beautiful historic home.

As the renovation nears completion, the team takes viewers on a tour of the finished space. The home is transformed into a modern, smart, and functional space that still retains its historic charm. The final result is a testament to the team's careful attention to detail and their commitment to preserving the architectural integrity of this unique historic home.

Overall, This Old House Season 36 Episode 12 is a fascinating look at the renovation of a historic home and showcases the possibilities of combining smart technology with traditional design. Viewers will be left inspired by the team's dedication to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and ability to seamlessly merge old and new.