This Old House (1979)
S27E20 Washington, DC | Setbacks Open Up New Ideas
Episode Overview
Host Kevin O'Connor heads to the National Mall to witness the National Park Service's completion of nearly a decade-long renovation at the Lincoln Memorial. Meanwhile, at the project house, master carpenter Norm Abram discovers that the interior has been largely stripped down. General contractor Mahyar Mahvi initially aimed to preserve many structural elements, but extensive water damage rendered them irreparable. On a brighter note, the basement is progressing well with a new concrete slab, upgraded electrical systems, and ongoing water service installation. Out on the street, master plumber Robert Major is busy replacing the outdated 3/4" lead water line with durable 1" copper piping. On Capitol Hill, landscape contractor Roger Cook collaborates with garden designer Kevin Cordt to explore the creation of stunning, low-maintenance gardens in compact urban spaces. Architect Genell Anderson, taken aback by the significant changes at the site, finds herself reevaluating her designs.