Brent Hull examines cladding as the architectural skin of a house—and why material choice and execution matter more than trends. Focusing on historic brickwork, the episode traces the origins of handmade brick, traditional bonding patterns, and the subtle irregularities that give older buildings ...

In March 2020, a family embarks on a journey to renovate a chateau that has been vacant for two decades. They tackle overgrown orchards, limited waste disposal options, and various structural challenges. Plans for a garden, improved drainage, and a cleared cellar emerge. The park area is enhanced...

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...

The project focuses on sheathing and WRB installation using self-adhered materials. Roof construction is progressing with careful framing and material selection. On-site trusses ensure proper support. The garage is prepared for concrete with moisture control. Interior walls are being built with a...

Explore the structural walkthrough of a custom home, emphasizing collaboration between builders and engineers. Communication is vital for maintaining design intent and securing building department approvals. Inspectors focus on basement wall bracing and foundation design, highlighting rebar's rol...

As life slows after months of building, Lauren and David reflect on how homes shape memory, identity, and a sense of belonging—especially the places we carry from childhood. Family gatherings, shared recipes, and familiar routines reinforce the comfort and safety that define home beyond design ch...

Elaina and Alex on building a driveway as part of their journey towards financial independence. They encounter challenges with tree removal and tractor issues while planning for excavation and house design. Seeking inspiration for a modern farmhouse look, they also coordinate with electric servic...

In March 2020, a family embarks on a journey to renovate a chateau in France that has been vacant for 20 years. They encounter various challenges, including interior restoration and garden maintenance. The family shares their experiences with relatives and details their bathroom renovation, tackl...

The project utilizes Boral fly ash siding in a nickel gap orientation, focusing on moisture management and traditional nail layouts. It incorporates strategic ventilation planning with ERV intakes and boiler exhausts, alongside brick facade details for a Tudor style. Safe lead flashing and a chim...

Explore the design and construction of a built-in closet system featuring a stylish color scheme of Chantilly lace. The episode covers closet rod installation, storage solutions like bifold doors and docking drawers, and joinery techniques for tight fits. Learn about creating a beaded profile usi...

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...

In March 2020, a family begins renovating a long-vacant chateau, preparing for visitors with a list of tasks. They focus on removing unsafe carpets, cleaning brass rods with tomato ketchup, and engaging in gardening activities. The chateau's blue kitchen doors need replacing, and a secret garden ...

A visit to England focuses on family reunions and property management. The farmhouse and coach house are reviewed, highlighting swimming pool and barn renovations. Landscaping of the secret garden and chestnut harvesting for dinner are featured. Discussions include field management and future dri...

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...

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 ...

As construction at the Meadow winds down and spring settles in, an unexpected water leak interrupts the calm and demands immediate attention. Drying efforts move quickly as bathroom flooding reveals the reality of life in a newly finished home. Between foraging walks, garden planning with low-mai...

Explore the restoration of a 1908 Italian Revival House, focusing on the discovery of original materials and the detailed restoration process. The house's solid construction and historical significance are highlighted, along with plans for its renovation. Insights into the house's past are shared...

After the holidays, work resumes with a focus on completing the en suite shower. Inspections show wall issues that require a wall lump removal for proper tile placement. Other tasks include checking for cracks and water damage in the flooring and beams. Christmas decorations need organizing, and ...

Wooden holdbacks from the dining room need repair, which includes reproducing moldings. The repair process involves making molds and casting replicas. Holdbacks for the salon are being cleaned and filled. There is also progress on curtain installation, along with plans for the blue China room's d...

A new ranch project is being developed south of Fort Worth, featuring a large pier and beam foundation. The construction emphasizes functional spaces for utilities and storage while aiming to create a strong identity for the house. As the project moves forward, there is growing excitement about t...

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...

Brent Hull examines how heating and cooling systems can be thoughtfully integrated into both historic homes and new construction without disrupting architectural integrity. The episode explores the balance between comfort, efficiency, and visual restraint—showing why mechanical systems should sup...

A renovation project is underway to restore a 1908 Italian Revival house. The updates focus on removing excessive decoration to reveal original wood and architectural details. Structural elements like clay tiles and brick are being addressed. The kitchen is significantly redesigned for a more inv...

Seven months into the renovation, Gavin and Nicole hit a major setback as crumbling joists and failing lintels are uncovered beneath the floors. Removing the fireplace reveals original brickwork, reshaping plans and pushing structural repairs to the top of the list. Creating safe access means lif...