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Post by Bearcata on Mar 13, 2024 7:23:30 GMT
Fixer to Fabulous Italiano - Episode 1 - Tuscan Wake Up Call - March 12, 2024
I normally do not watch Fixer to Fabulous but I do want to see this series of them fixing up a house in Italy. I watched Rachel Ray do her house and that was a very detailed look into building in Italy. The permitting process was going to take several months. Then there was the getting of contractors and supplies and building in a stone building and getting it up to code yet still seem like a historical building.
To be honest I don't believe the timeline at all. The graphics show December thru July not sure what the year is but I am assuming it is Dec 2022 thru July 2023.
There is no way you can begin a project like this without all the permits, architects, and contractors in place.
The building is impressive. It is obvious that the main part of the building has been updated as it looked in very good shape. I do peruse YouTube and there are a lot of people renovating old buildings in France, Portugal, and Italy. Jenny mentioned that the building was part of a monastery maybe that is why it is such good shape.
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Post by Kao on Mar 13, 2024 14:23:31 GMT
Fixer to Fabulous Italiano - Episode 1 - Tuscan Wake Up Call - March 12, 2024 I normally do not watch Fixer to Fabulous but I do want to see this series of them fixing up a house in Italy. I watched Rachel Ray do her house and that was a very detailed look into building in Italy. The permitting process was going to take several months. Then there was the getting of contractors and supplies and building in a stone building and getting it up to code yet still seem like a historical building. To be honest I don't believe the timeline at all. The graphics show December thru July not sure what the year is but I am assuming it is Dec 2022 thru July 2023. There is no way you can begin a project like this without all the permits, architects, and contractors in place. The building is impressive. It is obvious that the main part of the building has been updated as it looked in very good shape. I do peruse YouTube and there are a lot of people renovating old buildings in France, Portugal, and Italy. Jenny mentioned that the building was part of a monastery maybe that is why it is such good shape. I don't believe it either because just judging off shows like HH International: Renovations Italy in particular has a notoriously difficult permit process/finding reputable contractors/getting work completed; there just isn't that sense of urgency with work that exists in the States, and the older the building the more difficult the process. My guess would be closer to a year.
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Post by Kao on Mar 14, 2024 15:15:45 GMT
Italiano~
Pro: The building itself is beautiful, with marvelous bones. Lots of scenic scenes of the immediate area. I can see why Dave and Jenny's friends were attracted to the property.
Cons: With a building that old, I admit to feeling some type of way about designers ignoring the provenance of a building and jumping right into making everything look "modern" because it's wildly out of place. Also, you want to tear down a 200+ year old wall that's 2 feet thick made out of concrete in the kitchen just because you want an open floorplan? What? There is a way to modernize old structures without compromising their integrity and age, and if these are the sort of decisions they're making off the bat I'm frightened for the rest of this reno. Side-eying this just like I recently side-eyed last week's episode of Small Town Potential where the designers completely replaced the cool curved windows of a 150+ year old farmhouse in the kitchen with modern ones that didn't match the rest of the windows on the house, and installed a completely mod looking kitchen that ~SURPRISE~ also completely clashed with the character of the house.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 14, 2024 21:05:51 GMT
Italiano~Pro: The building itself is beautiful, with marvelous bones. Lots of scenic scenes of the immediate area. I can see why Dave and Jenny's friends were attracted to the property. Cons: With a building that old, I admit to feeling some type of way about designers ignoring the provenance of a building and jumping right into making everything look "modern" because it's wildly out of place. Also, you want to tear down a 200+ year old wall that's 2 feet thick made out of concrete in the kitchen just because you want an open floorplan? What? There is a way to modernize old structures without compromising their integrity and age, and if these are the sort of decisions they're making off the bat I'm frightened for the rest of this reno. Side-eying this just like I recently side-eyed last week's episode of Small Town Potential where the designers completely removed the cool curved windows of a 150+ year old farmhouse in the kitchen with modern ones that didn't match the rest of the windows on the house, and installed a completely mod looking kitchen that ~SURPRISE~ also completely clashed with the character of the house.
I do not believe the timeline on this renovation for one minute. The home owners are going to get a ton of reservations from HGTV fans is probably the main reason they are collaborating with Dave and Jenny.
I was very surprised how good the main floor of the building looked. It was very large already.
I totally understand getting a new modern kitchen for their business. deVOL Kitchens is a great example of having a modern kitchen but it looks old. It makes sense to connect the homeowners cheese making area with the new kitchen as it is part of the business.
Someone already demo'ed part of the upstairs before they got there. Wonder who?
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 19, 2024 4:39:51 GMT
Rock the Block Redemption - Season 5 - Episode 3 Main Suite Redemption - 18 March 2024 Wow, they are rushing the build so quickly, you really don't know what everyone was doing and by minute 34 they are setting up for the judging. I will say some of the over the top stuff is getting ridiculous and just plain stupid. It was very obvious who the winner was going to be the minute the judge stepped into the room. Very obvious the Twins are so out of their element and they are being incredibly bitter hags about not winning, well the one sister is. S&B - the only team to totally flip the bathroom and bedroom layout. I don't think the textures of the materials is coming across the TV screens that well. I didn't like the judge's comment that Paige and Mitch were the only team where the bed faces the water. Sarah and Bryan's bedroom had a huge floor to ceiling window and a french doors with a clear view of the water. A water view is a water view. I like what this team did, they use high end materials, have a good design sense and create beautiful spaces. They got dinged for a having a smaller closet, but I understand their reasoning that you don't need as much clothing in Florida. P&M - I liked the Moroccan plaster, not sure if I liked having a rainhead shower in the shower and over the bathtub. It is going to be one very wet room. Do you really need a champagne bar in the closet. Are these rich people constantly drunk? They did have a 2 in 1 washer/dryer unit in the master closet. Seriously I like to have a separate laundry room. The judge loved the bed raised on a platform, but again, I am thinking of the older client and stairs or platforms are not your friend. They put an outdoor shower on the third floor on this building, on a balcony, outside of the super bathroom. Why? They all bitch about the view and how important it is and then they put this outdoor shower talking up about 30 percent of the real estate. I would rather have the view. E&K - that is one crazy closet but who puts a fireplace in a closet. Oh, someone who wants to be toasty and warm in the morning. Don't forget the wine bar and the coffee maker also in the closet. It was getting ridiculous. I did like the secret door to the full size laundry. That laundry looked fabulous. This really feels more like the Battle of the Closets. I do think this was the best of the closets not because of the fireplace but of how it looked and being attached to a full laundry room. The Screechy Twins - put a cold plunge pool on the deck/balcony outside of their bathroom, like a super shower, sauna, and bathtub were not enough and you couldn't do a cold plunge in the bathtub or shower you really needed a cold plunge pool. It was funny when the judge told them the cabinets in the master bedroom read hotel room and that the cabinets didn't balance.
Prize for Dumb Add: Fireplace in a closet, Champagne Bar in a closet, Cold Plunge Pool, or Outdoor Shower?
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Post by nicksmom on Mar 19, 2024 13:25:45 GMT
Rock the Block:
I agree with everything you said…lol
The guys: first stretch of showed a chair by the fireplace and was thinking who’s sitting in there closet. I did like the rest of the closet and the laundry room. Really didn’t like their bathroom . I agree didn’t like the cabinet on the counter or those trumpet copper lights. It looked very old in there . Bedroom light was huge , maybe it was the angle of the shot but looked low. Really didn’t like the art behind the bed or the long skinny bench beside the bed.
Twins : were they the ones with the archways on each side of the bed? Lots of hanging things. Surprisingly they didn’t fill the room with fake plants. The first thing I thought when I saw that long cabinets was it looks like a hotel is there a small fridge there…lol . Cabinets still look old and cheap and there the same as their kitchen. Why would you put a dual washer dryer in there I would hate that machine alone. Dumb chill bath too. I kept thinking how heavy is that on the balcony .
Brian and Sarah: I thought the same thing , they even added more windows didn’t they. Catch 22 there I need it dark to sleep. I knew they lost when the closet was small. They did that before too. I have more than clothes in my closet. Give me storage.
Paige and Mitch : Again agree wouldn’t want to step up to my bed. I’m going to fall or stub my toe getting up to pee in the middle of the night . I hate in our trailer…lol not only was the outside shower dumb but really ugly . It looked like a hide out or jail. Really didn’t like the pink counter top either.
Again will watch it again since it goes so fast.
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Post by Kao on Mar 19, 2024 14:33:28 GMT
Rock the Block: Is everyone allergic to color this week? Goodness.
P&M: Spent 75k on the main suite, which was like “Wow.” I preferred the idea of the screened in balcony/seating area because of mosquitos over the outdoor shower because who is outside showering on the balcony when you have a beautiful ensuite inside? It’s not like there’s a pool out there. Made a platform for the bed, and an arched alcove above it for candles and knickknacks. They were the only team that had a layout with the bed facing the view outside. I’m not a fan of wet rooms in the bathrooms but can see how it would be easier to clean, and have to admit the layout and Moroccan plaster and pink stone were nice. Their closet was bigger, but somehow didn’t look as luxe as the others. K&E: I liked how they had accordion doors to the deck. Who the hell puts a fireplace in the closet? No one hangs out in their closet so much, no matter how lush? The beigeness of the natural colors were tempered by the different textures they used on the walls/bed/floor in the bedroom. Liked the privacy screen on the balcony to separate your space from the neighbors. Their closet was huge and absolutely fabulous. Liked the secret laundry area and the fact that it was easily accessed from the main suite. S&B: Opted to make the walk-in closet smaller, and add built-ins (drawers, shelves, etc) which was nice. The fireplace in the bedroom was a nice touch, as some Florida nights can get a little chilly, and it’s a cozy feel. Lots of beige again, but very elegant and sophisticated. Their balcony was strictly bare bones, lol. Bathroom was like a luxury spa with lots of natural light and a huge shower, and I’m obsessed with the amoeba shaped mirrors above the sinks. Twins: I have to admit, the twins excel when it comes to designing closets, as I loved that rotating shoe rack and the shirt rack you could pull down to get your clothes. Closet layout was very intuitive. Really liked the fun tile in the bathroom; the colors were great and I liked the circular pattern. Having a cold plunge pool on the balcony made a weird type of sense for hot, humid Florida days because you could just go out there, get in the pool and chill on you balcony. Bedroom had a very tropical vibe that managed to look lux, yet approachable.
While almost everyone seems to be good sports whether they win or lose the twins seem to be the exception, and it's extremely offputting. One of them was particularly nasty last night, and it makes it extremely hard to remain objective about their work.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 19, 2024 16:33:17 GMT
Rock the Block: Is everyone allergic to color this week? Goodness.
P&M: Spent 75k on the main suite, which was like “Wow.” I preferred the idea of the screened in balcony/seating area because of mosquitos over the outdoor shower because who is outside showering on the balcony when you have a beautiful ensuite inside? It’s not like there’s a pool out there. Made a platform for the bed, and an arched alcove above it for candles and knickknacks. They were the only team that had a layout with the bed facing the view outside. I’m not a fan of wet rooms in the bathrooms but can see how it would be easier to clean, and have to admit the layout and Moroccan plaster and pink stone were nice. Their closet was bigger, but somehow didn’t look as luxe as the others. K&E: I liked how they had accordion doors to the deck. Who the hell puts a fireplace in the closet? No one hangs out in their closet so much, no matter how lush? The beigeness of the natural colors were tempered by the different textures they used on the walls/bed/floor in the bedroom. Liked the privacy screen on the balcony to separate your space from the neighbors. Their closet was huge and absolutely fabulous. Liked the secret laundry area and the fact that it was easily accessed from the main suite. S&B: Opted to make the walk-in closet smaller, and add built-ins (drawers, shelves, etc) which was nice. The fireplace in the bedroom was a nice touch, as some Florida nights can get a little chilly, and it’s a cozy feel. Lots of beige again, but very elegant and sophisticated. Their balcony was strictly bare bones, lol. Bathroom was like a luxury spa with lots of natural light and a huge shower, and I’m obsessed with the amoeba shaped mirrors above the sinks. Twins: I have to admit, the twins excel when it comes to designing closets, as I loved that rotating show rack and the shirt rack you could pull down to get your clothes. Closet layout was very intuitive. Really liked the fun tile in the bathroom; the colors were great and I liked the circular pattern. Having a cold plunge pool on the balcony made a weird type of sense for hot, humid Florida days because you could just go out there, get in the pool and chill on you balcony. Bedroom had a very tropical vibe that managed to look lux, yet approachable.
While almost everyone seems to be good sports whether they win or lose the twins seem to be the exception, and it's extremely offputting. One of them was particularly nasty last night, and it makes it extremely hard to remain objective about their work.
P&M - the screened in porch made more sense after having a relaxing bath/shower in the evening and a relaxing glass of wine on the screened in balcony. If the bug problem is that bad in Florida it makes so much sense.
K&E - the fireplace in the closet, the wine bar, the coffee maker were all too much for the closet. Where do you clean your coffee cup? In the bathroom sink? Their bathroom I didn't mind, it seemed dark, I didn't mind the tower, but while the metal sconces next to the bathroom mirrors were a statement piece they were the absolute wrong type of light for a bathroom mirror. Those sconces were for mood lighting not for putting makeup on in the morning, maybe that is why is was so dark in there.
S&B - they do quality work and that reflects in the actual purchase price of the home as was shown in the Colorado Rock the Block.
Twins - The bathroom was good, they do a good closet, the bedroom looked kinda cheesy, but the commentary is was really hurts this team.
I think they have a really big problem with the editing of this season. I remember when they did one season in the Carolinas with Nate and Jeremiah and they camera lingered over their black and white marble tile floor. All four homes were really show cased each episode and I feel rushed this season like I have not really seen the results at all. I do thoroughly enjoy the Twins coming in last place every episode. Evan & Keith have really shown what they can do however sometimes their choices like those copper sconces in the master bathroom are not good. They should have won best closet and laundry room this episode.
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Post by waywyrd on Mar 19, 2024 19:31:20 GMT
Rock the Block - what are some of these folks thinking? I don't need champagne, coffee machines and fireplaces in my damn closet. And maybe I'm being hateful but I don't want those awful twins to win a single thing. I hope they never get invited back to one of these shows. S&B - still my favorite so far. Yeah, the color is a bit lacking, but a few well-placed colorful art pieces/decorative things would fix that up easily. I didn't mind the smaller closet. The whole house just feels comfortable and soothing to me. P&M - needed a separate laundry and to get rid of that dumb platform for the bed. And why on earth do I want to shower on the balcony? Other than that the room was nice. K&E - I get that they're trying to create a wow moment to win the week, but a closet fireplace? Really? I don't mind their kind of art deco-ish style, but I just wasn't thrilled by their rooms this time. And some of the art was...odd. Annoying twins - nice bath and closet (liked those light up rods), but I have no need for a cold plunge on the balcony. Nor a sauna inside. It's the South, if you want a sauna just go outside in late afternoon. It'll be interesting to see which houses sell first with these designs. The house that won the Colorado Rock the Block still hasn't sold... 2531 Southwind Rd, Berthoud, CO
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 19, 2024 20:55:43 GMT
Rock the Block - what are some of these folks thinking? I don't need champagne, coffee machines and fireplaces in my damn closet. And maybe I'm being hateful but I don't want those awful twins to win a single thing. I hope they never get invited back to one of these shows. S&B - still my favorite so far. Yeah, the color is a bit lacking, but a few well-placed colorful art pieces/decorative things would fix that up easily. I didn't mind the smaller closet. The whole house just feels comfortable and soothing to me. P&M - needed a separate laundry and to get rid of that dumb platform for the bed. And why on earth do I want to shower on the balcony? Other than that the room was nice. K&E - I get that they're trying to create a wow moment to win the week, but a closet fireplace? Really? I don't mind their kind of art deco-ish style, but I just wasn't thrilled by their rooms this time. And some of the art was...odd. Annoying twins - nice bath and closet (liked those light up rods), but I have no need for a cold plunge on the balcony. Nor a sauna inside. It's the South, if you want a sauna just go outside in late afternoon. It'll be interesting to see which houses sell first with these designs. The house that won the Colorado Rock the Block still hasn't sold... 2531 Southwind Rd, Berthoud, CO P&M - The shower on the balcony makes no sense to me. It makes sense to have an outdoor shower near the outdoor swimming pool. That and I thought the view was so important so why block it? Agree about the separate laundry.
K&E - think Keith went a bit rogue with his art work. He does that on their show where he throws everything on in the rooms and walls. He needs to learn to edit.
Screeching Twins - I kind of get they had a spa theme. I like the idea of a sauna and cold bath, however, won't it have been better to put in a workout space on the ground floor and have your sauna and cold plunge pool there?
S&B may not win but will sell and probably get the most money as that is what happened in Colorado.
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Post by Kao on Mar 19, 2024 22:18:07 GMT
Rock the Block - what are some of these folks thinking? I don't need champagne, coffee machines and fireplaces in my damn closet. And maybe I'm being hateful but I don't want those awful twins to win a single thing. I hope they never get invited back to one of these shows. S&B - still my favorite so far. Yeah, the color is a bit lacking, but a few well-placed colorful art pieces/decorative things would fix that up easily. I didn't mind the smaller closet. The whole house just feels comfortable and soothing to me. P&M - needed a separate laundry and to get rid of that dumb platform for the bed. And why on earth do I want to shower on the balcony? Other than that the room was nice. K&E - I get that they're trying to create a wow moment to win the week, but a closet fireplace? Really? I don't mind their kind of art deco-ish style, but I just wasn't thrilled by their rooms this time. And some of the art was...odd. Annoying twins - nice bath and closet (liked those light up rods), but I have no need for a cold plunge on the balcony. Nor a sauna inside. It's the South, if you want a sauna just go outside in late afternoon. It'll be interesting to see which houses sell first with these designs. The house that won the Colorado Rock the Block still hasn't sold... 2531 Southwind Rd, Berthoud, CO
I had no problem with the cold plunge pool on the balcony because Florida gets hot and humid (especially at night) and it's nice to have a spot where you can lay back, chill, and watch the ocean waves while sipping a nice glass of wine. I had more of a problem with that outdoor shower, and really wish Paige had gone with her initial instincts and went with the screened in porch/chill out area instead.
The twins...make it really hard to root for them. Which is a shame, because out of all of the designers they're the only ones who aren't afraid of implementing color in their work. S&B's work might be a bit bland for my taste but I'm not their target demographic; they're aiming for an older, more sophisticated clientele that want a quiet elegance and it would not surprise me if their townhome sells first.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 20, 2024 6:01:37 GMT
Fixer to Fabulous Italiano - Episode 2 - Stone House Surprises - March 19, 2024 Shocker stone and concrete takes longer than wood and dry wall.
The scorpions were fun.
I can see Jenny's thought process with the design and going over the lighting and electric plugs which again have to be dug in the stone walls. The owner picked olive wood for the floor and of course it is the most expensive wood flooring. The owner also picked the hand made terra cotta tiles vs the machine made ones currently in the house. I can't tell the difference but I don't live there. Jenny also ordered a hand made terra cotta bathtub - $5500 USD.
Interesting that they have to wait for the plumbing from the upstairs bathroom before they can start the kitchen plumbing because one ties into the other.
The house will not be done by July - they are focusing on the cheese room.
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Post by Kao on Mar 20, 2024 18:38:53 GMT
Episode 2: Italiano~After watching this episode, I think that both the owners and Jenny and her husband had extremely unrealistic expectations for this project as far as deadlines, delays, etc. that doing some research would have prepared them for. There are a lot of small, wonderful villages in Italy that will sell you an old house/villa for as low as a dollar to draw new residents, and the reason why they are a dollar is because in many cases they're either dilapidated/need updating, and to do so takes considerable time (and expense, depending on what you want done). There is no such thing as a "precise timeline" with Italian construction, because as Bearcata pointed out it's an entirely different beast working with concrete/stone than it is to work with wood/American concrete blocks. Also, these people want A LOT; new windows and a reconfiguration of the upstairs with separate ensuites, plus new electrical outlets and plumbing, and before you can even get into the design/electrical/plumbing aspects the stone has to be taken care of first and that takes time to drill through/frame with steel supports for the new doorways/windows/save the 30 year old plant on the old pergola, etc. Terra Cotta is nice, but would not be my first choice because it's extremely porous in nature and prone to staining. Will they be living there as well, or is this going to be more like a high-end VRBO? Because if they are living there, the terra cotta and olive wood floors are like "OK, do you" but for areas with a constant stream of people? There are materials that are just as nice, less expensive, and made for heavier traffic. No way in hell is that house going to be ready by July, and if they claim they hit that marker later they're lying. . They seem to have an extremely capable and experienced team working on the house so they do have that going in their favor; I've seen horror stories on other shows about contractors who took the money, did half the work, then disappeared...never to be seen or heard from again.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 20, 2024 21:43:43 GMT
Episode 2: Italiano~After watching this episode, I think that both the owners and Jenny and her husband had extremely unrealistic expectations for this project as far as deadlines, delays, etc. that doing some research would have prepared them for. There are a lot of small, wonderful villages in Italy that will sell you an old house/villa for as low as a dollar to draw new residents, and the reason why they are a dollar is because in many cases they're either dilapidated/need updating, and to do so takes considerable time (and expense, depending on what you want done). There is no such thing as a "precise timeline" with Italian construction, because as Bearcata pointed out it's an entirely different beast working with concrete/stone than it is to work with wood/American concrete blocks. Also, these people want A LOT; new windows and a reconfiguration of the upstairs with separate ensuites, plus new electrical outlets and plumbing, and before you can even get into the design/electrical/plumbing aspects the stone has to be taken care of first and that takes time to drill through/frame with steel supports for the new doorways/windows/save the 30 year old plant on the old pergola, etc. Terra Cotta is nice, but would not be my first choice because it's extremely porous in nature and prone to staining. Will they be living there as well, or is this going to be more like a high-end VRBO? Because if they are living there, the terra cotta and olive wood floors are like "OK, do you" but for areas with a constant stream of people? There are materials that are just as nice, less expensive, and made for heavier traffic. No way in hell is that house going to be ready by July, and if they claim they hit that marker later they're lying. . They seem to have an extremely capable and experienced team working on the house so they do have that going in their favor; I've seen horror stories on other shows about contractors who took the money, did half the work, then disappeared...never to be seen or heard from again. I follow folks on YouTube that are renovating "ruins" in Protugal, "chateus" in France etc ... and these folks are do-it-yourselfers going on two to three years to renovate properties. There is a entire issue with getting permits for historical buildings etc ...
The timelines given are made up. This couple bought the property and must have had an architect all lined up ahead of time. It looks good having Jenny & Dave & HGTV there but a 6 month timeline is La La Land. Guaranteed they have already been planning & getting permits for at least a year before we saw Jenny and Dave arrive. There probably is a minimum of 6 months to a year to get one of those hand made bathtubs.
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Post by Kao on Mar 22, 2024 17:09:32 GMT
Small Town Potential:
I was bored and wanted to see if my first negative impression of this show was correct, so I decided to give the next episode a go. I'm very happy to say I was pleasantly surprised, and that the first episode is an outlier. I have to admit that in most cases not Laurel, MI small towns don't exactly have positive connotations for me; quite the opposite. However, this show films in the Hudson Valley NY region, which seems to be super cute, very diverse, and filled with a variety of housing stock from Victorians to farmhouses to Mid Century. It's a very idea location for people who work in NYC who don't want to pay NYC prices, and want a bigger house and maybe some land. I never knew that the Hudson Valley was so cute; I'm over here thinking "Hmmmm...."
In the second episode, Kristin and Davina work with a couple who selected a rundown ranch with acres of land that they could have guests and entertain in and converted it in to a mod and awesome open concept home. The kitchen was made with natural elements that worked well with the greenery outside, and they widened the windows in the seating area to take advantage of that amazing view. So I was thinking "That was successful, maybe Davina and Co. just work better with more modern builds/designs?" Except in the very next episode they worked with an artist and her wife to renovate a much older home, and they converted a huge sunroom into an artist studio/cute mudroom, gave the kitchen a refresh so it was more fitting with the age of the house (the light mint green cabinets and floating shelves were cute and retro. Overall, I enjoyed those episodes, Davina and Kristin are cute together, the house porn is amazing as is the Hudson Valley, and I'll continue to watch.
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Post by Kao on Mar 25, 2024 20:39:03 GMT
Home Town: Season 7 Episode 17 Old World, New Build
This has got to be the first time that Erin and Ben did a “No, Ma’am” on a house and opted for a rebuild rather than a renovation. The homeowners originally were living in a tiny house (300 ft) and wanted to expand their family but knew their current space wasn’t feasible. They were gifted a house on theirs parent’s property, but it was run down (and architecturally insignificant) to the point that it was better to rebuild, and they had 150k to put towards that.
With the help of the architects that generally work with Erin and Ben they were able to create a 2 bedroom one bath house for the couple. It was a cute cottage of a house with an open floor plan, and Ben implemented a wooden design of the homeowners grandfather into an end table in the living room. Erin designs lovely green kitchens and this one made the most of the space with plenty of cabinets, and Erin had one of her friends make custom wooden knobs that featured items the couple liked on them, which was a nice touch. The main bedroom was lovely and a step up from the tiny sleeping area they had before. While the bathroom was small, it was super cute with custom mushrooms knobs on the cabinets that the mother had cast out of bronze, and a cute linen closet with a washer and dryer. A second bedroom outfitted as an office completed the house.’
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 25, 2024 21:34:20 GMT
Home Town: Season 7 Episode 17 Old World, New Build
This has got to be the first time that Erin and Ben did a “No, Ma’am” on a house and opted for a rebuild rather than a renovation. The homeowners originally were living in a tiny house (300 ft) and wanted to expand their family but knew their current space wasn’t feasible. They were gifted a house on theirs parent’s property, but it was run down (and architecturally insignificant) to the point that it was better to rebuild, and they had 150k to put towards that.
With the help of the architects that generally work with Erin and Ben they were able to create a 2 bedroom one bath house for the couple. It was a cute cottage of a house with an open floor plan, and Ben implemented a wooden design of the homeowners grandfather into an end table in the living room. Erin designs lovely green kitchens and this one made the most of the space with plenty of cabinets, and Erin had one of her friends make custom wooden knobs that featured items the couple liked on them, which was a nice touch. The main bedroom was lovely and a step up from the tiny sleeping area they had before. While the bathroom was small, it was super cute with custom mushrooms knobs on the cabinets that the mother had cast out of bronze, and a cute linen closet with a washer and dryer. A second bedroom outfitted as an office completed the house.’
Sounds like they wanted to start a family, so why not build a 3 bedroom 2 bath?
It cost 150K to build a 2 bedroom 1 bath? The property was gifted so they didn't have to pay for the land. That is very expensive.
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Post by Kao on Mar 25, 2024 21:55:41 GMT
I think budget and original footprint had a lot to do with it as they only had 150k and said they liked living on a smaller scale. Some people don't want a lot of space, I guess. The original house was trashed so they had no other choice but to do a bebuild.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 26, 2024 16:16:42 GMT
Rock the Block Redemption Season 5 Episode 4 - Backyard - March 25, 2024
Why does this show leave such a bad taste in my mouth? The rushing around and really bad competitiveness?
S&B - very elegant, every restrained, screams high end luxury resort, duh. The judges dinged them for not having a hot tub. They live in Florida and said it's too hot for a hot tub, but the judges, Floridians themselves say they use theirs all the time. Build in Japanese teppanyaki grill which I thought was a nice idea. Their pool had no hot tub but it also felt as if you could play games in the pool, and exercise in it vs the to others because their hot tubs took up space.
E&K - French vibe, but it feels as if there is not space to do anything in their pool because the hot tub is in the middle. Judges complained no decoration on wall. Really? It didn't need it, so dumb.
P&M - had fireplace, an table. Had a cold plunge + hot tub + pool and a movie screen but at a weird angle. I thought that movie screen was too small and where were the speakers etc .. sound bars.
Twins - colorful, only ones to install electric mosquito netting. Judges didn't like that the view was blocked and that the tanning shelf and chairs faced the house.
The Twins wins...wheee.
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Post by nicksmom on Mar 26, 2024 20:02:24 GMT
Rock the Block:
Twins: I knew they were going to win when they said screen. Except the screen wasn’t going to keep out bugs. It was still open on the sides when it went down. Did we even see the other side of their kitchen? I saw they had a stove or was that a bbq. A lot of empty space , the couches looked smal compared to others. They had the best middle veiw of the water too.
Paige &Mitch: I like the swing didn’t mind the black and white stones. Weird the couch was facing the fireplace and swing didn’t couldn’t watch the screen either. Then another cold tub. Are they really that popular?
The Guys: I liked theirs. The staging with the plates was weird , do you have to carry them inside to wash? Saying there was nothing on that wall did need something but that one panel need fixed first behind the fridge?
Brian &Sarah : I liked that they use stuff that is low maintenance, no wood. When looking at houses I say no to any wood trim on a house. They had a bad veiw all the boats were parked in their veiw. I didn’t mind that there was no hot tub but I’m sure if someone wanted one they could put it one in under the deck. Everyone is different. Loved the big trees the put in too.
Next week is outside again. What is left in the house upstairs.
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Post by waywyrd on Mar 27, 2024 0:23:26 GMT
Rock the Block - oh yay, my least favorite team/outdoor area won. S&B - probably my favorite one, I wouldn't mind not having a hot tub, that pool was really nice. And I'd love that teppanyaki grill. They kind of got screwed with the view, but they made the most of it. K&E - my second favorite. Pool was really pretty, and I liked their pavers and sitting areas. They had one of the best views. The "no art" ding from the judges was dumb. P&M - didn't love the checkerboard pavers and the movie screen setup/sitting area wasn't the best. Don't care about a cold plunge. Pool was nice. Twins - the sunning shelf and chairs were facing the wrong way but the colors were cute. The eating/sitting area was unimpressive and I didn't like the little cobblestone looking pavers, they looked harder to walk on. The bug screen was a big deal, I guess. *shrug*
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 27, 2024 1:09:19 GMT
Rock the Block - oh yay, my least favorite team/outdoor area won. S&B - probably my favorite one, I wouldn't mind not having a hot tub, that pool was really nice. And I'd love that teppanyaki grill. They kind of got screwed with the view, but they made the most of it. K&E - my second favorite. Pool was really pretty, and I liked their pavers and sitting areas. They had one of the best views. The "no art" ding from the judges was dumb. P&M - didn't love the checkerboard pavers and the movie screen setup/sitting area wasn't the best. Don't care about a cold plunge. Pool was nice. Twins - the sunning shelf and chairs were facing the wrong way but the colors were cute. The eating/sitting area was unimpressive and I didn't like the little cobblestone looking pavers, they looked harder to walk on. The bug screen was a big deal, I guess. *shrug* I like water walking in the pool in the summer and for exercisers I can see doing the hot tub than the cold plunge and hot tub again. It is a thing to help muscles recover faster. It just seems they are throwing all these accessories in and the kitchen sink and the stove and whatever to the point of ridiculousness.
The judges dings were dumb. I do like the Twins did an outdoor shower. To be honest with the drapes, the corner lot, the raised deck and trees in the pots S&B really have the most privacy around the pool area and especially in the covered patio area.
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Post by Bearcata on Mar 27, 2024 4:05:10 GMT
Fixer to Fabulous Italiano - Episode 3 - On a Mission - March 26, 2024
I do like this mini series as they are showing the home being renovated you are seeing new "classic" materials. I do like they are showing blacksmiths making these fantastic cheese room doors. You see the structural changes that must happen in a 200 year old home. I like the little touches of finding a knife maker and having a custom set of cheese knives made. I like that Jenny and Dave are explaining the permitting process. I liked Jenny and Dave going over the budget with the clients and re thinking materials, still being able to use marble in the kitchen but a less expensive one after all they mine carrara marble in the region. I even had fun with them picking the right shade of green paint for the shutters. I really like how HGTV is showcasing Tuscany and the craftsmen who live in the area. Those hand made kitchen knives made me drool.
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Post by Kao on Mar 28, 2024 19:04:56 GMT
Rock The Block:
This episode didn't do it for me as I'm not a pool person and was either annoyed or wondering why people made the design decisions they did. I don't know if it's because they've been there for a while now or because it's close to endgame or the producers encourage a little bitchery or what, but some of those folks were digging a lil bit too deeply in the meow mix bag in this episode and it was more than a little bit offputting. The Twins and Sarah and Bryan standing around with their "I can't believe THEY won" comments about Paige and Mitch left a bad taste in my mouth. The Twins might be abrasive, but they didn't deserve the others saying nasty things about their designs behind their backs either. It seems like only Keith and Evan had the sense to realize that if they said something unpleasant the producers were going to air it, and had the good graces to keep their mouths shut. The second issue I had was a lot of these spaces (while beautiful to look at) didn't seem fit for day to day living....especially if you have children, or are eating outside. I know that Wayfair is a sponsor but why did everyone choose white cushions for their outdoor furniture? Was there a sale? Granted, if you're paying over 1.5 mil for a beach house the odds are great you're going to hire someone else to do the cleaning, but white anything attracts dirt and grime regardless of how clean you are. While S&B's outdoor teppanyaki grill was a neat feature, who wants to eat something sloppy like ribs while sitting on white furniture? I did think that the two tall trees they planted was a lovely idea for shade and a pop of color admidst all of the beige they insist on using. Also, they didn't include a hot tub, which while not a dealbreaker for some people would be for others because all of the Florida snowbirds coming in for the winter love hot tubs.
I loved P&M's floating daybed idea and was glad they redeemed themselves from those godawful swing chairs from the last time they were on RTB, but again with the white cushions! A lot of the seating was facing away from the movie screen on the porch, and who wants a fireplace outside when a firepit would make more sense? Had the same issue as S&Bs backyard because while being beautiful to look at I have problems with seeing people actually living there and using the space.
All I remember from K&E's space was a lot of white with some wood thrown in for good measure. I give them points on having the good sense to pick a gray dining table and chairs for the eating area, and while I liked the fact that they had a firepit and the built in recliner chairs were halfway submerged in the pool so you could dangle your legs in the water and get them wet, what were they thinking with the hot tub in the middle of the pool? I also agree with that judge who said that long empty wall needed some art or something.
I can't believe I'm saying this, but out of all of the teams The Twins were the only ones who understood the assignment, and I was glad they won. Their space looked comfortable and chill, and was colorful and fun. If furniture got splashed or something got spilled you wouldn't feel like it was the end of the world. While they also used the dreaded white cushions they also had striped pillows on them, and I loved all of the natural elements they used like bamboo chairs, wall hangings, and light shades. Loved that grass-shaded palapa and the pinkish lounge chairs, and best of all, the motorized screens not only adapted to sun conditions during the day, they also keep the insects out at night.
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Post by Kao on Apr 1, 2024 23:12:27 GMT
Episode 3: Italiano~
The villa is coming along very nicely now, and I love the Italian team for being extremely proactive in spotting potential trouble and contacting Jenny and Dave to get their opinion and give options. Luv Luv the finished cheese room as well as this series showing us the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into making its doors as well as the custom made knives (which were gorgeous). The bit with the mayor made me laugh (everyone knew that liquor was a slight bribe but couldn't come out and say it ) but I'm glad he gave them good options regarding the shutters, and being a Green girl myself I loved the shade they chose for them. I also think Jenny and Dave should be given credit for their patience because this couple is messy:
Couple: On top of the scope of work you're already doing, we want you to demolish the perfectly good stone floors ($$$$) and install handmade terra cotta tiles ($$$$) olive wood floors (even MORE $$$$), and oh, we also want a terra cotta tub (sigh...$$$$$).
This Same Couple later: We've been losing sleep worrying about the cost of things. Is there any way you could cut back? Ummm....
To their credit, they didn't break a sweat and gave the couple several good cost-cutting options.
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Post by Bearcata on Apr 2, 2024 6:17:51 GMT
Episode 3: Italiano~
The villa is coming along very nicely now, and I love the Italian team for being extremely proactive in spotting potential trouble and contacting Jenny and Dave to get their opinion and give options. Luv Luv the finished cheese room as well as this series showing us the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into making its doors as well as the custom made knives (which were gorgeous). The bit with the mayor made me laugh (everyone knew that liquor was a slight bribe but couldn't come out and say it ) but I'm glad he gave them good options regarding the shutters, and being a Green girl myself I loved the shade they chose for them. I also think Jenny and Dave should be given credit for their patience because this couple is messy:
Couple: On top of the scope of work you're already doing, we want you to demolish the perfectly good stone floors ($$$$) and install handmade terra cotta tiles ($$$$) olive wood floors (even MORE $$$$), and oh, we also want a terra cotta tub (sigh...$$$$$).
This Same Couple later: We've been losing sleep worrying about the cost of things. Is there any way you could cut back? Ummm....
To their credit, they didn't break a sweat and gave the couple several good cost-cutting options.
To be fair Jenny is the one who provided samples of flooring to the client.
Jenny also mentioned that there was a big difference in how the factory made floor tiles looked vs the handmade terra cotta ones, it just didn't show on the TV Screen and I really didn't see the difference.
As for the tub that looked like a Jenny thing not the client.
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Post by Bearcata on Apr 2, 2024 6:39:05 GMT
Rock the Block Redemption Season 5 Episode 5 - Exteriors Redemption - April 1, 2024 Judging the exterior siding on the homes was SO LAME as the teams sharing walls compromised on what the siding, the garage door, and the driveway material would be in the first episode. The only thing that would differentiate any of the homes from the front would be the landscaping, the lighting, and the front doors. Also what idiot builder puts a utility box right next to the front door of a million dollar home??? Stupid beyond belief. S&B - Dock had a pergola, a grill/firepit, a fish cleaning station, and shaded seating under the pergola. The judges really liked the sconces outside the house. Balcony was an extension of the living room, had the bug screens, had a fireplace, is next to the kitchen and the tapanaka grill is below but the judges wanted a grill. Art Installation a big bonzai tree and rock tray on the front stoop that hides the electrical panel.
K&E - Dock sucked. Had 3 pieces of wood nailed together for a bar top, some plants and chairs. The art installation that was supposed to look like an octopus looked like a regular white glass glass pendant. The balcony extended the living room outside. Really how many grills and barbecues, fireplaces, firepits, does a home need?
P&M - garage lighting too small, dock sucked, yet it a 6 ft metal sculpture on it. The sculpture would have looked better on in the front of the house with the landscaping. The dockside hammock looked cheap and would put splinters into your skin or give you rope burn. At this point order furniture from Wayfair and put it on the balcony. Did like the inside outside counter top though.
The Twins - the one who plays the realtor & budget person is the one who always makes the nasty, mean spirited comments. Dock sucked, some plants, a bench, a yoga mat - used their money to install solar panels on the roof and 3 storage batteries in the garage. Art installation, the live wall of plants off the balcony actually looked very nice.
The Judges - It's hard to judge exteriors when there are only two instead of four. Well three of the docks sucked so this part was easy. Again dinging people for grills.
S&B win. The one twin says something mean and nasty.
All the teams have $10,000 left in their budgets to finish off 3 or 4 smaller bedrooms and one or two bathrooms, how is that going to work?
When will this disaster end?
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Post by nennie on Apr 2, 2024 12:48:44 GMT
Rock the Block Redemption Season 5 Episode 5 - Exteriors Redemption - April 1, 2024 Judging the exterior siding on the homes was SO LAME as the teams sharing walls compromised on what the siding, the garage door, and the driveway material would be in the first episode. The only thing that would differentiate any of the homes from the front would be the landscaping, the lighting, and the front doors. Also what idiot builder puts a utility box right next to the front door of a million dollar home??? Stupid beyond belief. S&B - Dock had a pergola, a grill/firepit, a fish cleaning station, and shaded seating under the pergola. The judges really liked the sconces outside the house. Balcony was an extension of the living room, had the bug screens, had a fireplace, is next to the kitchen and the tapanaka grill is below but the judges wanted a grill. Art Installation a big bonzai tree and rock tray on the front stoop that hides the electrical panel.
K&E - Dock sucked. Had 3 pieces of wood nailed together for a bar top, some plants and chairs. The art installation that was supposed to look like an octopus looked like a regular white glass glass pendant. The balcony extended the living room outside. Really how many grills and barbecues, fireplaces, firepits, does a home need?
P&M - garage lighting too small, dock sucked, yet it a 6 ft metal sculpture on it. The sculpture would have looked better on in the front of the house with the landscaping. The dockside hammock looked cheap and would put splinters into your skin or give you rope burn. At this point order furniture from Wayfair and put it on the balcony. Did like the inside outside counter top though.
The Twins - the one who plays the realtor & budget person is the one who always makes the nasty, mean spirited comments. Dock sucked, some plants, a bench, a yoga mat - used their money to install solar panels on the roof and 3 storage batteries in the garage. Art installation, the live wall of plants off the balcony actually looked very nice.
The Judges - It's hard to judge exteriors when there are only two instead of four. Well three of the docks sucked so this part was easy. Again dinging people for grills.
S&B win. The one twin says something mean and nasty.
All the teams have $10,000 left in their budgets to finish off 3 or 4 smaller bedrooms and one or two bathrooms, how is that going to work?
When will this disaster end?
I hope they don't bring the twins back for anything. They are sore losers and always a nasty comment. I didn't like the live plants off the balcony. I think these two have ego problems. I like S&B's the best.
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Post by nicksmom on Apr 2, 2024 13:09:52 GMT
Rock the Block:
Well the right people won I think.
Brian and Sarah : did a great job on the front. Their pavers were level to the garage door the rest looked terrible. The other pavers looked like it had huge gaps . The screen was a nice touch but my daughter asked how you went back in tho go to the bathroom . Do you have to put the whole thing up letting bugs in…lol . Liked the pergola.
Twins: I think the living plants should have been counted for the bottom area. They put everything into the solar panels. I think in a hurricane I would move off the water and go inland. But the panels will save them on electricity. The shades are good for privacy. They don’t have any curtains anywhere , Paige doesn’t either. On the dock all I could think of is falling in the water if that bench moved.
The guys: sure let’s have a bar on the dock…lol Hope no one gets drunk. That light they made was only special to them because they made it but to me looked normal and bland. It wasn’t even in the middle of the table.
Paige and Mitch: that hammock was so ugly… their balcony was ok. Not sure how often I would use the window bar
I’m not even sure why they had them decorate the docks anyway since it is a shared one. I could see some of that stuff blowing over in the wind…lol
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Post by Bearcata on Apr 2, 2024 16:26:28 GMT
Rock the Block: Well the right people won I think. Brian and Sarah : did a great job on the front. Their pavers were level to the garage door the rest looked terrible. The other pavers looked like it had huge gaps . The screen was a nice touch but my daughter asked how you went back in tho go to the bathroom . Do you have to put the whole thing up letting bugs in…lol . Liked the pergola. Twins: I think the living plants should have been counted for the bottom area. They put everything into the solar panels. I think in a hurricane I would move off the water and go inland. But the panels will save them on electricity. The shades are good for privacy. They don’t have any curtains anywhere , Paige doesn’t either. On the dock all I could think of is falling in the water if that bench moved. The guys: sure let’s have a bar on the dock…lol Hope no one gets drunk. That light they made was only special to them because they made it but to me looked normal and bland. It wasn’t even in the middle of the table. Paige and Mitch: that hammock was so ugly… their balcony was ok. Not sure how often I would use the window bar I’m not even sure why they had them decorate the docks anyway since it is a shared one. I could see some of that stuff blowing over in the wind…lol When I watch Maine Cabin Builders (Magnolia) install docks any structures such as lighting, seating, grills, shade and such is permanently installing into the dock so the wind does not blow it over.
It would have been more useful if the teams collaborated on the docks. I do wonder wouldn't the pergola block the view they comment on all the time?
Very surprised no boat lifts, slides or swings were considered. What about ladders, kayak access, paddle board access. There was a ton missed.
As far as curtains, that is a design choice as they are staging the house so it looks good in pictures and therefore no curtains or blinds.
As for bug screens I like the kind you can put on your sliding door and it has panels with little magnets so you can pop them open or close very easily vs using a remote to lower and raise them.
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