Restored

Hosted by Brett Waterman, Restored is a unique show that aired on DIY Network in 2017. Waterman is a preservationist par excellence with an incredible passion for maintaining the historic value and original architectural elements of period homes. Every episode brings unique and awe-inspiring renovations of the 19th and early 20th century homes.

The focal point of the series is Waterman's approach towards restoration, which isn't just about renovation or modernization but about restoring the true spirit of the home. His aim is to rediscover and embrace a home's unique charm, highlighting its hidden beauties obscured by decades, to fully capture and honor the design, craftsmanship, and aesthetics of a different era while considering the needs and conveniences of a modern lifestyle.

Throughout the hour-long episodes, viewers join Waterman as he helps homeowners across the country reclaim their homes' pastlives while infusing their personal style and future dreams into their homes' historic fabric. Every segment showcases the restoration of a different period home, ranging from Victorian, Craftsman, and Spanish Colonial Revival styles to an English Tudor and a 1920s Triplex.

Viewers are shown the crucial consultation stage where the blueprint of restoration, plans, and strategies are developed. Waterman's thorough discussion with the homeowners highlights their specific visions, the history of the property, and inherent issues to tackle during the meticulously detailed revamping process.

One of the laudable aspects of Restored is how much of an educational experience it provides. Waterman takes viewers on a journey to explore different historical periods, architectural styles, intricate details, and distinct elements that make these homes worth preserving. This knowledge and appreciation of the historical context are what make the transformation of these homes indeed “restoration” rather than mere renovation.

As Waterman digs into each house's history, there's an evident bonding process between the conservationist, homeowners, and the house itself. Each restoration project is approached with an unrelenting dedication to not just refurbish the house but restore it to its former glory, celebrating its architectural significance, and preserving its past. Period-appropriate fixtures and hardware are often used to keep the authenticity intact, and attention is paid even to the landscape design to match the home's era.

In every episode, viewers can see the common problems that older homes presents such as outdated plumbing, electrical systems that are no longer up-to-code, and structural wear-and-tear that come with age. Each of these issues is diligently addressed by Waterman and his team while aiming to retain and enhance the home's historical essence.

The end result is nothing short of transformational. Deteriorating and neglected houses obtain a fresh lease of life without losing their inherent charm and glory. Homes are revealed as time capsules waiting to be unlocked, where old meets new in a harmonious blend, ready to house yet another generation.

Restored both showcases and respects the subtle beauty of older homes, giving audiences a new appreciation for older architectural styles. It transports viewers to bygone eras and then brings them back again, bridging the gap between the past and the present in the most visually appealing way.

The DIY Network's Restored gives a sense of accomplishment to the homeowner proud of their restored houses and empowers viewers with the idea that history can live comfortably with modern conveniences. Brett Waterman, through his dedication and love for old homes, enables homeowners to fall in love all over again with their home's history, charm, and character, reminding the audience that every house has a story to tell and that history can indeed come alive.

With each episode, Restored not only restores a home but also restores a sense of pride, identity, and continuity, consolidating its place in reality televisionscape as a one-of-a-kind show that preserves and breathes life into architectural history.