New House Old Soul
14 Episodes
New House, Old Soul is a rich and soulful home renovation series that follows a passionate team as they breathe life into new homes by channeling the spirit of classic craftsmanship. Led by famed builder Brent Hull, known for his unmatched dedication to timeless design and authentic craftsmanship, the series explores how to blend contemporary design with the enduring charm of historical architecture, proving that a new build doesn’t have to feel sterile or soulless.
The show begins by laying out its mission: to educate and inspire through the process of fusing old-world aesthetics with modern structures. Viewers are brought into the creative process, where every decision — from blueprint to final touches — is driven by a reverence for the past and an eye for timeless design. This isn’t just a renovation show; it’s a love letter to the lost art of craftsmanship.
As the series progresses, it shines a spotlight on the artisans and builders behind the scenes — those who carve, weld, frame, and finish with precision and care. There’s a meditative quality to watching them work, and a deep sense of respect for the materials, the tools, and the techniques passed down through generations.
From the critical task of laying strong foundations to the deliberate way a home is framed to accommodate vintage design principles, the series moves with purpose and patience. Each home becomes a living archive, telling a story that stretches beyond the present moment. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about soul, history, and the belief that homes can carry memory even when they’re brand new.
New House, Old Soul invites the audience to slow down, appreciate the details, and reimagine what it means to build a home — one that honors where we’ve been, even as it looks toward where we’re going.
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19:02Episode 1
S1 E1 - How to
Episode 1
Explore the process of constructing homes that reflect character and narrative. The focus is on historical architecture and craftsmanship, using traditional methods. Key details in construction, from materials to design, create a cohesive story within the home. A kitchen designed with a 1940s aes...
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S1 E3 - Foundations
Explore the journey of constructing a new house that retains an old soul by focusing on the importance of foundations. The evolution of foundation materials from stone and brick to modern concrete is highlighted, along with the historical context in America. A case study of an 1881 house illustra...
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S1 E4 - Framing
Framing plays a vital role in construction, evolving from timber, balloon, and western methods. Timber framing utilizes large timbers and traditional joinery, while balloon framing has been criticized for its weaknesses. Changes in migration and construction needs have influenced these methods. T...
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S1 E5 - Electrical
Explore the journey of electrical systems and lighting from the 1880s to today. Discover the shift from gas lighting to electrical systems and the rivalry between AC and DC power. Learn about the evolution of wiring and the significance of preserving architectural integrity with historic lighting...
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S1 E6 - Plumbing
Explore the evolution of plumbing fixtures and bathroom aesthetics, tracing the timeline of running water and flushing toilets. Discover design trends from the 1920s to the 1950s, including shifts in color and materials. Learn about modern plumbing practices, efficient materials, and historic fea...
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S1 E7 - Roofing and Dormers
Roofs and dormers are essential in architectural storytelling and history. Early American settlers used wood for roofing, while modern materials include faux slate and fire-rated wood shingles. Architectural traditions guide roofing styles, with historic examples like Colonial Williamsburg showca...
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S1 E8 - Cladding
Cladding acts as the exterior skin of a house, with a focus on historical materials like brick. The evolution of bricks, their handmade origins, and bonding patterns are essential for a house's character. Authentic materials are preferred over modern substitutes to maintain historical integrity. ...
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S1 E9 - Windows
Windows are essential in home design, merging history with modern needs. The evolution of materials and designs shows a shift from the craftsmanship of pre-1940s windows to contemporary options that often sacrifice quality for cost. Energy efficiency is crucial, with single pane glass favored in ...
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S1 E10 - HVAC Heating and Cooling
Explore the design and integration of HVAC systems in both historic and new homes. The content highlights the importance of comfort and energy efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal. It reviews various HVAC examples, discusses mechanical space organization, and explains chiller systems alo...
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S1 E11 - Flooring
Flooring is essential in home design, especially when blending new builds with historical aesthetics. The choice of materials, like Eastern white pine, reflects regional history. The shift from handmade to machine-made flooring has altered wood characteristics. Timeless design is crucial as trend...
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S1 E12 - Trim and Millwork
Moldings are essential in architecture, showcasing historical styles and serving functional roles. They have evolved, with modern designs often differing from classical proportions. Understanding their historical context enriches design narratives. Quality craftsmanship in trim carpentry enhances...
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S1 E13 - Kitchens Cabinets and Built-ins
Explore how modern kitchen designs incorporate historical elements, transforming kitchens from mere service areas into inviting family spaces. Discover the role of cabinetry and hardware in showcasing historical styles, and learn how plumbing fixtures contribute to a cohesive design narrative. Wi...
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S1 E14 - The Wrap
Explore the philosophy of constructing a new home that embodies historical context and architectural styles. Emphasizing the narrative behind a house, the approach incorporates various influences, especially from French design. The use of salvaged materials and attention to small details enhances...
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18:18Episode 2
S1 E2 - Craftsmanship
Episode 2
Craftsmanship plays a crucial role in building, emphasizing traditional skills that are fading. Education in crafts is important, with schools teaching skills like violin making and furniture crafting. Design proportions and historical methods focus on quality over speed and cost. Mockups aid cli...
