How a historic home renovation honors the legacy of a legendary street photographer

This episode of This Old House balances complex structural renovations with a deep dive into the life of Jules Aarons, a celebrated Boston street photographer. Watch to see how the team manages modern home upgrades while preserving the artistic history embedded in the property.

The Auburndale project showcases the technical precision required for historic home restoration. General contractor Tom Silva and master carpenter Norm Abram tackle the framing of a new sunroom, employing tapered rafters to ensure proper drainage on a flat roof. Simultaneously, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey navigates significant layout changes, including the addition of air conditioning and the installation of back-to-back bathrooms.

Beyond the construction, host Kevin O'Connor explores the history of the home's former resident, Jules Aarons. Through insights from curator Aaron Schmidt and Phillip Aarons at the Boston Public Library, the episode highlights Aarons' impact as a street photographer. This blend of craftsmanship and cultural history reflects the show's mission to demystify home improvement while honoring the stories behind the structures.

Source: This Old House | The Artistry of TOH and Jules Aarons (S32 E6) | FULL EPISODE