
This Old House
The modest 1720s gambrel has been restored, complete with a new ell and barn element.

The modest 1720s gambrel has been restored, complete with a new ell and barn element.

New wide plank floorboards mimic the look of the original flooring; a soapstone sink is fabricated.

Installing a granite veneer water table; building a dry laid stone wall; plumbing manifold.

A water harvesting system is installed. The old barn is replaced with a new boathouse.

HVAC ducts are hidden. A cinderblock enclosure is covered. Damage to an original gunstock post is repaired.

Installing a warm roof; new framing poses plumbing challenges; rot is found on the original sill.

A fireplace is demoed; but the chimney is saved. Restoration of the timber frame begins.

The old ell has been reassembled, the new fireplace is constructed, and a steel beam is craned into place.

Dismantling the timber frame structure; fireplace; landscape and hardscape ideas.

Preparation begins for the new foundation; assessing the original timber frame structure.

A lesson on first period homes; the team hopes to uncover the original timber frame during demo.

A first period home in Ipswich, Mass.; salvaging the old floorboards before demo begins.

The homeowners and crew take part in the town's bed race before calling it a wrap on the project.

The yard gets planted; a custom home office is built from off-the-shelf materials.

Installing roof shingles and exterior window trims; modifying the staircase balusters and railings.

Pouring new foundations; a winding staircase replaces an old steep one; building a retaining wall.

Disconnecting the main power; the old bump out is demoed; the bathroom is tested for asbestos.

A new project begins in the middle-class town of Newburyport, Mass.

Renovation of the 1890s Victorian is completed; touring the new spaces; lending library.

The front door is stripped. HVAC system is connected. Floating shelves installed. Brick steps are repaired.