Ep 5. Arlington Arts & Crafts | A Steely Den

This Old House season 38 episode 5 titled "Arlington Arts & Crafts | A Steely Den" takes viewers on a journey to a beautiful Arts & Crafts-style home in Arlington, Massachusetts. The episode follows the crew as they work on renovating the family room, which they've dubbed the Steely Den.

The renovation project features a modern twist on the classic Arts & Crafts style. The homeowners, a couple with young children, are looking to keep the traditional character of their home while adding some contemporary flair. To achieve this, the design team has chosen to incorporate steel elements into the room, adding a sleek and industrial touch to the space.

The episode begins with host Kevin O'Connor giving viewers a tour of the home and introducing the homeowners. Next, we see the crew working on the exterior of the Steely Den, replacing the windows and adding new stone to the foundation. The homeowners are impressed with the progress and excited to see their vision come to life.

As the crew moves inside, they begin to tackle the various challenges of the space. The Steely Den was originally a porch that had been enclosed, leaving it with a low ceiling and a cramped feeling. To open up the space, the team installs a new structural beam and removes a wall, creating a more open floor plan. They also raise the ceiling, giving the room a more spacious and inviting feel.

One of the most exciting elements of the renovation is the addition of steel elements. The crew installs a steel fireplace surround, designed to add a sleek and modern touch to the room. They also create a steel mantle and bookshelf, adding additional storage and a unique design feature. The homeowners are thrilled with the steel elements, which add a contemporary twist to the traditional Arts & Crafts style.

The crew also tackles the challenge of a large support column in the middle of the space. To make it less intrusive, they create a custom built-in bench around the column, creating a cozy nook for reading or watching TV. They also build a custom entertainment center, incorporating a large TV and a soundbar.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to see the crew's attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship. For example, they take great care in selecting the right wood for the built-in bench and entertainment center, ensuring that it matches the existing woodwork in the home. They also work carefully to install new trim and crown molding, creating a seamless transition between old and new.

As the episode draws to a close, we see the homeowners expressing their gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the crew. They are thrilled with their new Steely Den and can't wait to spend time there with their family and friends. The episode ends with a sneak peek at the next phase of the renovation, leaving viewers eager for the next installment of This Old House.

Overall, This Old House season 38 episode 5 offers a fascinating look at the challenges and rewards of renovating an Arts & Crafts-style home. The design team successfully incorporates contemporary elements into a traditional space, creating a beautifully balanced and inviting room. With their commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, the crew turns the homeowners' vision into reality, creating a truly exceptional living space.