Ep 3. Arlington Arts & Crafts | Make Way for the Family Room

This Old House Season 38 Episode 3, titled "Arlington Arts & Crafts | Make Way for the Family Room," follows the renovation of a 1920s Arts and Crafts-style home in Arlington, Massachusetts. In this episode, the team focuses on creating a family room that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The episode begins with a tour of the home's existing layout, which includes a small living room, dining room, and cramped kitchen. The homeowners express their desire for a larger, more open space where the family can gather. The team decides to create a family room by converting an existing sunroom.

The first step in the renovation process involves removing the existing walls and windows of the sunroom. This allows the team to create a larger space that seamlessly connects with the existing living room. The team also adds new windows and French doors that allow more natural light into the space and provide easy access to the backyard.

Next, the team tackles the flooring, which consists of a mixture of old hardwood and linoleum tiles. The team decides to install new hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor, including the family room. The new flooring complements the home's existing woodwork and enhances its overall aesthetic.

With the flooring in place, the team moves on to installing new cabinetry and shelving. The homeowners chose custom-made cabinetry that includes a built-in desk and media center. The team also installs a new fireplace and mantle, which provides a focal point for the room and adds warmth and charm.

The team then focuses on the finishing touches, including painting the walls and adding lighting fixtures. The homeowners choose a warm color scheme that complements the woodwork and creates a cozy atmosphere. The lighting fixtures are strategically placed to highlight the room's architectural features and provide task lighting where needed.

Throughout the episode, the team encounters a few challenges, including the discovery of an old chimney in the sunroom's walls. They also have to work around the existing plumbing and electrical systems, which require careful planning and coordination.

Despite these challenges, the team is able to create a beautiful and functional family room that the homeowners love. The new space provides ample room for the family to gather, entertain guests, and enjoy quality time together.

Overall, This Old House Season 38 Episode 3 is a must-watch for anyone interested in home renovation and design. The episode provides valuable insights into the renovation process and showcases the team's expertise in creating beautiful and functional spaces.