11x1 - Lifespan House: New Project Begins

September 4, 2000

Bob Vila begins a brand new project in the heart of South Carolina's low country where the focus is on community living.

11x2 - Lifespan House: Working On the First Floor

September 11, 2000

Work continues on the first floor, as the walls are framed throughout. Also: a tour of the Clemson University high-wind test house, built to demonstrate new building techniques for hurricane safety.

11x4 - Lifespan House: Fireplace and Porch Columns

September 6, 2000

Masons go to work constructing the fireplace, while columns are put into place on the porch.

11x5 - Lifespan House: Metal Roofing and Windows

September 6, 2000

With new windows and French doors being installed, Bob Vila helps apply exterior siding and cedar trim.

11x6 - Lifespan House: Skylight and Garage Doors

September 6, 2000

Custom-made garage doors are installed along with a skylight above the family room.

11x7 - Lifespan House: Installing a Stairway

September 6, 2000

The framing inspector visits the project site, and contractors put in a pre-built stairway.

11x8 - Lifespan House: Front Porch and Bathroom

Traditional shutters go up on the front porch, and tile work begins in the bathroom.

11x9 - Lifespan House: Plaster and Trim Work

The plasterer is hard at work and in the dining room, the carpenter is doing the trim. In the garage, insulation is put in.

11x10 - Lifespan House: Landscaping Begins

Landscaping begins and a granite vanity top is installed in the first-floor bathroom. Also: a tour Middleton Place, home to exquisite gardens.

11x11 - Lifespan House: Working On the Kitchen

In the the kitchen, cabinets and appliances are installed, while painters work using historically accurate colors upstairs.

11x12 - Lifespan House: Completing the Living Room

Workers install the reclaimed lumber living room floor, hang handmade lanterns on the porch, and install new Energy Star appliances.

11x13 - Lifespan House: Final House Tour

Bob Vila tours the completed home, evaluating the landscaping, exterior, and decorated interior, which local designer Carolyn Griffith is on hand to explain.