Ep 1. The Cape Ann House
- March 28, 2020
In season 42 of This Old House, the show kicks off with the episode titled "The Cape Ann House." This episode follows the transformations of an old, 1930s beach cottage into a modern, updated home.
Located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, the Cape Ann House has seen its fair share of wear and tear over the years. With outdated electrical and plumbing systems, as well as a cramped layout, the homeowners are eager to give their home a much-needed makeover.
The episode begins with a tour of the existing home, highlighting its small, outdated kitchen, outdated bathrooms, and cramped living spaces. The homeowners, a couple with two young children, explain their vision for a more open, modern floor plan with plenty of space to entertain guests and raise their family.
To achieve this, the team plans to completely gut the existing home and add a new addition, doubling the home's size. In addition to a new open-concept kitchen, the team plans to create a new master suite, a larger living room, and additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Throughout the episode, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the construction process, from demolition and foundation work to plumbing and electrical wiring. The team also highlights some of the unique challenges that come with remodeling an older home, such as dealing with outdated wiring and plumbing systems that are no longer up to code.
To help bring the homeowner's vision to life, the team also brings in interior designer Mally Skok to help with the home's overall design and color scheme. Skok works with the homeowners to choose everything from paint colors to fixtures and finishes, creating a cohesive look that blends modern touches with the home's historic charm.
In addition to the construction and design work, the episode also highlights some of the unique challenges of living on the beaches of Cape Ann. For example, the team has to work around local regulations that mandate setbacks from the bluffs and protect the local wildlife.
Overall, "The Cape Ann House" is an exciting start to season 42 of This Old House. Whether you're a die-hard DIY enthusiast or just love seeing the transformation of old homes, this episode is sure to inspire and entertain.
