In this episode, Irene Chen visits a remarkable private garden in Borneo guided by owner Ong, where tropical plants thrive in layered abundance. As they walk through the garden, Ong shares practical insights on potting media, fertilizer use, propagation methods, and adapting care to shifting weat...

With just over a week to move in, Lauren and David race through final construction meetings, juggling HVAC fixes, kitchen installs, and last-minute electrical hurdles. Favorite fixtures arrive, distinct bathroom designs come to life, and new furniture begins to fill the space. Despite late movers...

With construction moving at remarkable speed, Lauren and David watch the house shift from build site to living design experiment. Temporary furniture and decor are staged for a photo shoot as final details fall into place. Outside, carefully chosen plantings support wildlife and biodiversity, tur...

This week, Gavin and Nicole shift focus to the outbuildings, where progress comes with plenty of dust, debris, and unexpected discoveries. Vaulted ceiling work and insulation removal inside the farmhouse reveal both challenges and momentum, while clearing the piggery uncovers remnants of the prop...

Lauren and David continue shaping their new home while viewing each decision through the lens of family life and childhood memory. Furniture layouts and fabric choices for the family room spark debate, while natural materials help ground the space in warmth and calm. As excitement builds around p...

With construction complete, Lauren and David turn their focus to living in the space they worked so hard to create. A new rug collection takes shape with hands-on family input, while shifts in designer partnerships open the door to future possibilities. As winter sets in, a zinc kitchen counterto...

As the renovation moves beyond visible finishes, Gavin and Nicole focus on the less glamorous but essential systems that make rural living work. An upgraded septic solution takes center stage as engineers assess treatment plant locations, conduct soil tests, and navigate changing regulations. Alo...

Project Homeward Bound aims to create a forever home for clients returning from the US. The design blends traditional and contemporary styles, featuring double height windows and larger furniture. Key areas include a cozy office with a library feel, a great room with integrated textures, and a di...

High stress levels arise from delays and permit issues in the project. Excavation begins after obtaining the city permit, but unexpected water complicates the process. Effective team coordination helps manage pressures. The foundation work progresses with careful preparation for pouring footings,...

The 45 White Oak project showcases innovative construction techniques in a confined space. Material management is key, with Cobin Lumber ensuring timely deliveries to reduce disruptions. The project features off-site manufactured walls and traditional framing for the floor system. An open first f...

After years of planning, building, and hard work, Lauren and David finally move into their new home. As boxes are unpacked and final details come together, friends and family arrive to celebrate with shared meals and meaningful moments. Looking ahead to their first Thanksgiving, the family reflec...

From the moment they step into their new-old house, Lauren and David feel a pull that reinforces why they chose this place—and why they’re ready to make it their own. Early design decisions shift from wallpaper choices to settling on mortar over flagstone in the foyer, balancing aesthetics with p...

Brent Hull examines the evolution of residential framing—from early timber construction and balloon framing to the engineered systems used in modern homes. The episode explains how traditional timber framing relied on large sections and joinery to create durable structures, while balloon framing ...

The Elliot Project features a design that harmonizes comfort and elegance, inspired by its historical surroundings. Natural light fills the open layout, showcasing warm woods and playful wallpapers. The kitchen merges traditional and modern styles, while the dining room boasts dramatic lighting. ...

A family embarks on a journey to renovate their Chateau, focusing on essential repairs like the roof and chandelier restoration. They clean decorative items and uncover hidden garden features. The courtyard and barn undergo significant transformations, with flooring replacements and kitchen renov...

The project moves forward with completed foundation work and preparations for underground utilities and framing. HVAC, plumbing, and electrical teams finalize details before concrete pouring. Framing begins, creating standing walls and excitement about the house's shape. Recent developments inclu...

Construction is advancing with the placement of concrete for phase one footings and the installation of vertical rebar. Three concrete trucks and a pump are on site. Preparations for waterproofing and drainage systems are underway. A meeting with Seagate addresses air sealing strategies and desig...

The site visit in Needham focuses on key construction topics such as concrete footings, waterproofing techniques, and rebar importance. Methods to prevent capillary action and manage water intrusion are discussed, along with cold joint management for structural integrity. The team outlines a phas...

Explore the transformation of raw logs into finished products in Bavaria, focusing on the 45 White Oak Project. The process highlights the importance of log selection, particularly sourcing quality oak from France. Key steps include debarking, sawmill operations, and lamination techniques. The us...

New goslings bring excitement and daily surprises as Lauren and David involve their children in caring for them and planting spring flowers around the Meadow. Naming debates, muddy boots, and hands-on lessons turn the garden into a place of shared responsibility and wonder. Alongside the joyful c...

Explore a delightful recipe with Lauren Liess for wild garlic soup that emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients. The process includes foraging for wild garlic, chopping vegetables, and sautéing them before blending the soup. A fresh salad with greens, nuts, and a simple dressing complements the d...

High above the city, this episode uncovers one of Southeast Asia’s largest rooftop gardens—an ambitious landscape designed as both living rainforest and experimental growing space. Irene Chen tours the garden created by Dr. Francis Ung, where distinct plant zones coexist atop a lightweight soil s...