Ep 14. Cold Weather Landscape

This Old House season 43 episode 14 is titled "Cold Weather Landscape," and follows the team as they makeover a suburban backyard for winter weather. In this episode, the team faces challenges of subzero weather while trying to extend the usability of an outdoor space. The focus is on how to create a cohesive and functioning outdoor haven that can withstand the snow, sleet, and freezing temperatures of the Northeast.

The show opens with a snow-covered backyard that is being transformed into a practical and aesthetically pleasing winter landscape. A crew of experts, including landscapers, hardscapers, and an outdoor lighting specialist, work together to create a functional patio, a garden filled with plants that will thrive in winter, and other features that will add both beauty and functionality to the space.

Host Kevin O'Connor introduces the project and outlines the challenges that come with designing a winter landscape. He also explains how to best utilize outdoor spaces in the colder months, and how landscape designers need to take into account the importance of sustainable design, water use, and native plant species in creating a winter outdoor oasis.

The show's expert team of landscapers get to work as they start by clearing the snow and plan the layout of the space. They'll also build a fire pit to provide warmth and create a focal point. The landscape team will be selecting and planting trees, shrubs, and perennials that will provide color and interest throughout the winter months. They will also install proper irrigation and drainage systems to ensure that the plants thrive while also reducing water usage.

The hardscaping team is then introduced, and they lay groundwork for the patio and pathways using natural stone to give it an organic feel that blends perfectly with the winter landscape surrounding it.

There's also an outdoor lighting specialist on the team who focuses on highlighting the hard work that the team had done. He installs various types of LED lighting, including path lights, up lights, and shadowing techniques to create depth and drama in the space.

Throughout the process, the show's well-known experts provide insights and tips on the best practices, planting techniques, drainage, and irrigation systems, and all things involved in landscaping for winter. They'll focus on creating a space that can transition from summer into winter. They'll also talk about how important it is to hire a professional for all your outdoor needs.

The episode comes to a close as the team wraps up the project, showcases the new and improved backyard, and offers viewers tips for maintaining their own winter landscapes. The show is packed with information, guidance, and inspiration for anyone wanting to create an outdoor oasis in colder months.

In summary, "Cold Weather Landscape" is an episode of This Old House that showcases a comprehensive and functional makeover of an outdoor space that can withstand the harshest winter. The expert landscapers, hardscapers, and lighting specialist team up to create a space that is not only practical but also beautiful. The show offers valuable and practical tips for anyone looking to create a winter landscape of their own, while also emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices, proper water use, and the hiring of professionals. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor space in the colder months.