This Old House

Systems, Security And Surfaces Take Shape

Host Kevin O'Connor arrives to find the wood island top being installed, and fabricator Paul Grothouse is on hand to show how he achieved the distressed finish. General contractor Tom Silva installs the "his & hers" closet systems that were designed online by interior designer Melissa Gulley and picked up at the local home center. Security system specialist Jack Basset installs the new wireless security system that cannot only detect opened windows and broken doors, but also the sound of breaking glass. Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows Kevin the high-efficiency two-stage air conditioning system, and an equally efficient system for heat and hot water thanks to a condensing boiler and an indirect hot water tank. Countertop contractor Danny Puccio installs the kitchen window stool his shop made out of marble, as well as the "leathered" granite countertops - a look that's achieved by using metal brushes rather than diamond polishing pads. Tom installs the exterior hardware and shows how the new "smart lock" can be re-keyed anytime without the help of a locksmith. Landscape designer Jen Nawada Evans oversees the planting of the neighborhood trees in the community island, and the sod going down on the project, which is just about finished.