This Old House

S29E18 New Orleans | Camelbacks, Bargeboard, and Toxic Mold

In New Orleans, Kevin reconnects with homeowner Rashida Ferdinand and her architect, Rick Fifield, as they explore the designs for her shotgun house renovation. The plans include a camelback extension featuring a master suite and a new family room, complete with back and side porches to capture the refreshing river breezes. As demolition kicks off, builder Carl Hithe shows master carpenter Norm Abram the unique construction method, revealing that the house is made from repurposed bargeboards salvaged from boats that once navigated the Mississippi River. Later, at Musicians Village, Kevin meets Executive Director Jim Pate, who explains Habitat for Humanity's post-Katrina building techniques, starting with a robust foundation system that utilizes 35-foot deep pilings.