Trending Episodes
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S1E10 A Borneo Private Garden
A private garden in Coing, Malaysia showcases an impressive collection of tropical plants. The owner creatively arranges unique specimens, including a large philodendron beier and various begonia varieties. The tour features rare anterium, jade ventilation blocks, and diverse acacia species. View...
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S2E3 Worst Concrete Pour Ever!
The concrete pour encountered several challenges, including scheduling errors and insufficient manpower. Delays arose from miscommunication about the delivery site, complicating the process. During pouring, equipment issues and material inconsistencies added stress. Safety concerns, particularly ...
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S1E16 Opening Up Walls for Greater Spaces
Home renovation faces unexpected challenges, including rot and delays. Family visits occur during tile removal and preparation for further work. The demolition of the last wall begins to enhance kitchen space, prompting a design reevaluation. Flooding leads to wood storage issues, requiring an up...
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S4E22 We're Installing a Mountain of Insulation
The project involves installing Rockwool insulation in a house, starting with site preparation and ensuring electrical work is done. Rockwool is selected for its water resistance, soundproofing, and fire resistance. Collaboration with Rockwell representatives provides valuable tips. A spreadsheet...
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S1E5 Inside an Award-Winning Tropical Home Where the Garden Leads
In this episode, Irene Chen tours an award-winning tropical home in Borneo where architecture and garden design are deeply intertwined. The surrounding landscape features easy-care tropical plants chosen for resilience and beauty, while natural forms and materials shape the home’s structure and f...
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S1E14 Bringing Stone Walls Back to Life While Structural Plans Shift
Work slows as Gavin and Nicole pause the renovation to address lime removal and reassess next steps before restarting in November. As walls are opened and checked, rotten joists and moisture damage come to light, reshaping plans for underfloor heating and future structural work. A new laser measu...
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S1E17 Spring Brings Stone Laying, Compost Bays, and New Farm Projects
With spring arriving, work shifts outdoors as bulbs emerge and new farm tasks take priority. Gavin and Nicole complete compost bays, experiment with land use, and continue balancing house renovation alongside smallholding projects. A hands-on lesson in stone laying highlights the skill and patien...
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S2E9 Insulating the Slab
Foundation installation is complete, and slab preparation is in progress. Selected waterproofing products will enhance the warranty. Structural foam fill is used for insulation and support under the slab, which has varying thicknesses. An ejector pump is installed for the basement bathroom, and r...
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S1E12 Inside a Beautiful Garden Designed for Balance and Self-Sufficiency
This episode visits a tranquil private garden shaped around self-sufficiency, care, and thoughtful design. Irene Chen explores the space with Mr. Chow, where a living pond supports edible fish and plays an essential role in the garden’s ecosystem. As they walk through the garden, conversations un...
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S1E4 My Parents Moved my Bedroom to a Chateau in France
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S1E19 What We Wish We’d Known Before Buying and Renovating the Farm
In a candid Q&A, Gavin and Nicole respond to viewer questions about the realities of buying property, renovating an old farmhouse, and adjusting to small-space living. They share lessons learned around mortgages and financing, finding the right property, and building connections within a rural co...
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S1E5 From Gaslight to Edison: How Electrical History Shapes Better Homes
Brent Hull traces the evolution of residential lighting from 19th-century gas lamps to early electrical systems and the lasting impact those transitions have on how houses are built today. The episode explores the rivalry between AC and DC power, changes in wiring methods, and why understanding t...
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S2E8 Insulating the Foundation
Foundation construction begins with determining the height based on the water table and ensuring proper elevation. Significant volumes of concrete walls are placed, with anchor bolts installed every 32 inches for added stability. A brick shelf is included for aesthetic continuity and effective dr...
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S1E7 A Super Lush Tropical Garden Grown with Patience and Personality
In this episode, Irene Chen visits a deeply personal tropical garden cultivated over 11 years by her plant friend Juni. As they walk through layers of lush growth, Juni reflects on her hands-on journey—sharing practical insights on pruning, repotting, propagation, and understanding each plant’s i...
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S1E2 Touring a Modern Farmhouse Designed for Long-Term Living
This house tour introduces a permanent family home shaped with longevity, comfort, and flexibility in mind. Lauren Liess walks through the foyer and living room before exploring plans for children’s bedrooms and connected upstairs spaces designed to grow with the family. The kitchen anchors the h...
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S1E18 Repairing Rotten Joists and Preparing Walls for Lime Mortar
Structural repairs take priority as Gavin and Nicole tackle rotten joists, replacing damaged sections with new timbers and treating exposed wood with borax gel for long-term protection. Layers of old paint are stripped back from beams and carefully neutralized, preparing the walls for breathable ...
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S1E9 Oxford Botanist visits DIY Tropical Garden
Join a personal garden tour that showcases tropical plants and highlights recent changes and new additions. Insights from botanist Dr. Francis enhance the experience, as the host shares their four-year gardening journey. The discussion covers practical gardening skills, care tips for slow-growing...
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S2E10 New Driveway Begins
The project kicks off with enthusiasm for the job site trailer. Construction advances as the basement slab is completed and rebar is installed for load-bearing walls. A drainage system is established to handle water around the foundation. Additional fill is added for a new driveway, and the lot i...
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S1E2 What is Neoclassical Architecture?
Explore the evolution of architectural styles, particularly neoclassical architecture, and its historical significance. Understanding terminology and styles is crucial for effective client communication. The narrative outlines the transition from Victorian to neoclassical, detailing the influence...
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S2E4 Planting Wildflowers along the Driveway
Elena and Alex embark on a project at Mason Dixon Acres, planting Black-Eyed Susans along their driveway. They prepare their equipment and address concerns about plastic waste, emphasizing their recycling commitment. With dry weather and potential snow, they plan to cover seeds with straw and imp...
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S2E13 Framing with KD vs Engineered Lumber
Explore the key aspects of construction in Needham, focusing on roof and wall framing. The assembly of trusses and effective ventilation strategies are discussed, highlighting the decision to avoid spray foam for better air tightness. The framing of a two-story wall is examined, emphasizing mater...
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S1E7 Basketball and Pickle-ball Courts
A unique home project emphasizes design and landscaping, showcasing features like pathways, water elements, and an intricate pool design. Excitement builds as a greenhouse is planned, and exterior materials like stone and slate are selected. Inside, construction progresses with cabinet installati...
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S2E38 Finale Revealed
The Steve Teak project features a comprehensive tour of a beautifully designed home. It highlights the exterior with reclaimed brick and unique architectural elements, while the interior boasts custom millwork and cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms. Living areas are crafted for comfort, and s...
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S1E4 Updates on the New Villa
The project showcases major construction milestones, including the completed foundation and HVAC installation. Framing is underway, bringing walls to life, while roofing faces weather challenges. A customized greenhouse and detailed landscaping plans are in progress. An underground drainage syste...