Ep 2. Belmont Victorian - The Kitchen Came Tumbling Down

Belmont Victorian, a classic Victorian-style home situated in Belmont, Massachusetts, is the focus of the second episode of season 37 of This Old House. In this episode, the team takes on the task of demolishing the outdated and poorly constructed kitchen of the house, to make way for a modern and functional kitchen that suits the home's style and meets the needs of its residents.

The episode starts off with a brief introduction to Belmont Victorian, a beautiful four-bedroom house with a distinct Victorian character. Tommy Silva, the show's resident general contractor, gives viewers a tour of the kitchen, pointing out the various issues with the existing structure. The kitchen is cramped and poorly laid out, making it difficult for the residents to cook and move around. Additionally, it lacks storage space and proper lighting, making it an unpleasant space to spend time in.

The first step in transforming this space is demolition. Silva and his crew set to work tearing down the old cabinets, countertops, and appliances. As the kitchen comes tumbling down, the team discovers several structural issues in the walls and ceiling that need to be addressed before they can proceed with the renovation.

To fix the structural issues, Silva brings in a team of experts to address the root of the problem. They find that the walls and ceiling are severely compromised due to years of water damage, which has caused the wood to rot. The crew removes the affected materials and replaces them with new, moisture-resistant material. This ensures that the kitchen will be structurally sound for years to come.

Once the structural issues are sorted, the team gets to work on the kitchen's design. Richard Trethewey, the plumbing and heating expert, installs new pipes and wiring to accommodate the new appliances and fixtures. Kevin O'Connor, the show's host, works on the design of the space, discussing different layout options with the homeowners and creating a new plan that maximizes the kitchen's potential.

The new kitchen design includes plenty of storage space, improved lighting, and modern, high-end appliances. The homeowners have chosen classic Victorian-style cabinetry and fixtures that complement the rest of the house's decor, while still allowing for a modern touch. The team has also added an island in the center of the kitchen to provide ample counter space and a focal point for the room.

As the renovation progresses, the team faces a few unexpected challenges, including the discovery of an old chimney that needs to be removed, and the need to move a heating duct to accommodate the new layout. However, Silva and his crew are up to the task, and they work diligently to ensure that the renovations are completed on time and on budget.

Finally, after weeks of hard work, the new kitchen is unveiled to the homeowners. They are delighted with the transformation and cannot believe how bright, functional, and beautiful the space has become. The team gathers to admire their handiwork, pleased with another job well done.

In conclusion, the second episode of season 37 of This Old House is an exciting and informative look at the renovation of a classic Victorian kitchen. Viewers will learn about the challenges of working with an old house, the importance of structural integrity in any renovation project, and the key elements of a modern and functional kitchen. The team's dedication to preserving the character of the house while still creating a space that suits the homeowners' needs is evident throughout the episode, making it an inspiring and engaging watch for anyone interested in home renovation.