Ep 20. The Dorchester Triple Decker: Urban Oasis

The Dorchester Triple Decker: Urban Oasis is the 20th episode in the 43rd season of the highly acclaimed television series This Old House. In this episode, the team visits a unique three-story home, commonly referred to as a triple-decker, in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, which was built in the early 1900s.

The hosts start their renovation project by inspecting the exterior of the house, which is in dire need of a fresh coat of paint. They also note that the brickwork needs repointing, and the chimney needs to be stabilized. The team then moves inside to tackle a significant issue of the house - the lack of natural light. They tear down walls and cut holes in the ceiling to create much-needed windows and skylights.

The team has some exciting ideas to transform the two units into an urban oasis that is both inviting and functional. They plan to add a covered porch that will extend the living space and provide an outdoor area for relaxation. The porch will have a pitched roof to match the existing architecture of the house. The team then focuses on the interior design aspects, intending to create a modern and inviting living space. They decide to use a combination of neutral colors and bold accents to create the desired effect.

The renovation project would not be complete without addressing the kitchen and bathroom, which are both outdated. The team completely transforms the kitchen by reconfiguring the layout and installing new cabinets, countertops, and appliances. The end result is a modern kitchen that is both functional and stylish. In the bathroom, the team installs a new shower, toilet, and vanity, which makes the small space feel larger.

One of the unique features of the triple-decker house is the attic space, which is unfinished and unused. The team decides to transform the space into a cozy den that can be used for a variety of purposes. They install a skylight, which allows natural light to flood the space, making it bright and inviting. They also add insulation and ventilation to ensure the space is comfortable all year round.

The team finishes the project by adding some finishing touches, such as new light fixtures, window treatments, and accessories. They reveal the final product to the homeowners, who are delighted with the transformation. The renovation has breathed new life into the triple-decker house, which was once a dark and outdated home, and transformed it into a modern and functional urban oasis that the homeowners can enjoy for years to come.

In conclusion, the 20th episode of This Old House's season 43 is a must-see for anyone interested in home renovation. The team showcases their expertise in addressing practical issues of a building while creating an inviting and functional space that meets the modern needs of homeowners. The episode's focus on the transformation of a unique and historic triple-decker home in a popular Boston neighborhood is also a great example of how to maintain the building's architectural integrity while bringing it into the 21st century.