Renovation is addictive. Bro as soon as you get through with this project, you will forget all the frustrating moments and look for another renovation project
@@ChrisHytha Yeah do this. You can flip rowhomes, but unlike normal soulless flippers, you can actually care about preserving the architecture and make money on the YT videos of the process!
You absolutely forget the lows once it's done. I started a small bathroom update and ended up fully remodeling down to the studs. There were lows, but it's so nice, I don't mind at all. And the $aving$...
I’ll be curious to learn where in the process you enjoyed & did best at versus not. I learned well after leaving architecture that I’m better at the front end of a project but decrease in both as the project went on. Maybe consistent with most architects?
I had a good laugh when you said you were renovating a 150 year old house and the budget was 50k. Happy to see someone putting in the effort to preserve/revive these old homes and I loved the concepts you made.
The absolute insane level of detail in this video is incredible. It has also convinced me that buying a old row home in Philadelphia is a terrible investment but great for RUclips content.
@@ChrisHytha I can CLEARLY see that. Such a shame too. You're basically indirectly proving that it is literally a TERRIBLE idea to even think about purchasing a rowhome in Philly and that most of these homes (even pre-existing) should be knocked down. I can't imagine how many people are living like this and not realizing their home can fall over at any moment. Scary really.
@@ChrisHythaanother reflection video idea: if you had known the issues you encountered, how would you have reconceived the architectural design? Would you have considered removing the back and/or middle additions (assuming they were additions) & building a new addition? Etc. Maybe something to include in the Philadelphia row house anatomy series-I really want it LOL😉
Thanks for your support! Last video got like 100k new viewers unfamiliar with the project so AI thought it was fitting to consolidate the whole story of how we got here
@@ChrisHytha you should make this video the featured video on your channel page so when someone new comes in they are greeted with the last progress summary video (assuming you'll make more of these in the future)
Its a crazy adventure coming from a contractor/ Philly home owner (Point Breeze). Never know what you are gonna find in a 100+ year old house. We found newspapers in perfect condition from 1940's acting as underlayment in our last flip. Was like a tine wrap reading all stories about World War II and hosues for sale for $3000 lol.
@ChrisHytha Did one property found a safe buried in a closed up window box in the basement. Was REALLY hoping to find a long lost copy of the Constitution or something but it was empty. Later found out the house was a speak easy in the 20's -30's hence the safe.
We did too, we have news papers from 1940s in our walls, and dead mice, and a mystery vent that went to who knows where, because the house had radiators for heat.
This is an exceptionally old Philadelphia home, showcasing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s architectural history. The central section was likely the original structure, framed in a style rarely seen today. Originally, the house would have had a front yard separating it from the street, with the three-story front being a later addition. In homes from this era, it’s not uncommon to find remnants of a privy pit in the backyard. In some cases, it may even be located beneath the kitchen, which also appears to be an addition to the original home.
@@ChrisHytha@ChrisHytha, here is an example of a home that could have been your middle section before the front was added. (it in now demolished) www.google.com/maps/@39.9344229,-75.1596481,3a,75y,0.64h,87.67t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw!2e0!5s20120601T000000!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fcb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile%26w%3D900%26h%3D600%26pitch%3D2.329050318096435%26panoid%3DZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw%26yaw%3D0.6448169553469922!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
@@ChrisHytha Here is an example of an original home with a front yard set back behind newer row homes built in the front yard. www.google.com/maps/@39.9344229,-75.1596481,3a,75y,0.64h,87.67t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw!2e0!5s20120601T000000!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fcb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile%26w%3D900%26h%3D600%26pitch%3D2.329050318096435%26panoid%3DZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw%26yaw%3D0.6448169553469922!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
@ You’re absolutely right-Philadelphia has countless old homes, each with its own history and quirks. As a team with extensive experience working in these homes, we’ve seen a lot, but framing like this is definitely not something we come across often. Wood-framed structures like this were largely replaced by masonry construction a long time ago due to fire safety concerns, which is why they’re so rare today. It’s always fascinating to uncover the craftsmanship and unique features of these historic properties while upgrading their electrical and HVAC systems to meet modern needs.
this is very a high production episode, really grabs my attention. Love re-watching the progress, as well as the architectural breakdown! Great job!!!!
@@CluelessEngineer I used a mix of Revit, Rhino, Twinmotion, and adobe aftereffects. There is no one tool, just an idea, then leverage whatever tools you need to make that idea happen
Loved the recap, with the added info on permitting and becoming a GC. Your editing skills and overall production is amongst the best I've seen on RUclips!
This is one of if not THE best video you’ve ever made. I’ve followed from day 1 and yet had the best time watching through this recap. Exciting times ahead!!
@@ChrisHythaI’d only ask that you add a time stamp of some sort: week #, date. Oh & hold the text on screen for a few seconds later. Love the chapters!
The violinist was worth it! And wow, the quality of these videos is astonishing. Keep it up and best of luck with everything! Kind regards from Denmark
If anyone hasn't bought his highrise book, do it. It's a beautifully done book. Gave mine to my sister-in-law, so now I have to order another! Lots of cool info in there and the shots are amazing!
Your videos are getting better and better, this one was killer will all the animations. It gave me a really good understanding of how your house is split up. Thank you!
I work on the zoning side of permitting as a planner, alongside a building department, and this video was incredibly informative for me learning some of the finer details of construction I haven't seen before. Thanks for sharing those concepts!
LFG!! Nothing beats the feeling of borrowing hundreds of thousands of dollars for something you immediately start hitting with a hammer...I been there brotha!
Really liked how you showed the diagram of the house. Makes it so easy to understand what you are doing. Think you made the right decision about the middle part!
Great video I normally skip recap videos. Editing is supreme and the 3d modeling of your house is not only so so helpful, but totally unique to your channel. I hope this recap will bring you many new viewers. Kudos Edit: me, mom and sister all twisted our ankles on stairs like that in an old Butte, Mt home. So be very careful keeping them
Loved the fleshed out animations, discussions of wall sheathing tech, etc. As someone with very limited understanding of construction and how buildings actually work, they really helped clarify the last 4 months and made this video super interesting to eatch, even though I've been here most of that time for the weekly videos.
The $100 investment at the end of the video was a perfect closure. Sitting here assuming it was just stock music playing only to cut to her "performance" was a great idea. I would have loved to see her face when you were explaining the shot before hand. "... ill on the floor above dropping pieces of the wall i tore out... " 😁
That was so informative. Just like a course in doing a major renovation! Your drawings help to make it much clearer. Very few channels do that. All that and somehow you make it entertaining too. Congratulations on having the patience to demolish that chimney!!! What a job.
as a philly renter i always wanted to buy a rowhome in the city. Your videos have been really educational and have showed some insight as to what to expect 😅 keep em coming!
Since day 1, it's been absolutely splendid seeing your growth with this project and within yourself. I love your artistic visons so very much and am beyond inspired by you!
Native West Philadelphian here and can I just say that I have been beyond annoyed with the cookie cutter houses that have been popping up all over the city. My dream is to one day own one of these beautiful row homes and try to restore and highlight the character and charm that once graced these halls. I have been enjoying your videos and they give me hope that while it’s easier to just demolish these homes it’s so much more satisfying and rewarding to try and capture the charm that once lived within these walls… thank you for this series!
thank you for sticking with the filming for youtube. i hope that these video compilations give you clarity on this ever-convoluted situation. it's a joy to see the realness. best of luck
Hey Chris, as you mention in your insulation segment, it can be quite tricky going from and old naturally ventilated house to a modern enclosed style house. You are absolutely correct about old houses being able to breath, and you as you said yourself, just insulating with mineral wool, removing the house's ability to circulate air would contribute to mold, due to a plastic vaporbarrier and mineral wool being dead static materials. Mineral wool would just get wet and stay wet. If you like the idea of a breathable house, that is well insulated and extremely fire safe, hygroscopic materials might be something for you to consider. Wood fiber insulation, breathable and absorbs and releases moisture depending on the relative humidity of the air. Wood fiber insulation has soft fibers and consists of more mass (kg per m3), which means that it absorbs and dampens the sound very well. Also very fire resistant due to the moister content, which makes it smoke, rather than burn. On the interior wall use a diffusion-open steam brake, which is also self-regulating, moisture can dry inwards in the room, thus helping to dry out unwanted excess moisture. and on the exterior wall use a wood fiber asphalt wind barrier, which will reduce cold bridges due to additional insulating properties. 12 mm Windproof corresponds to almost 10 mm of standard mineral wool. In Denmark, where I am from, it's approved, but I don't know about the US. But again, its something to look into.
@@theroadlesstraveled21 I dont have any experience using hemp as insulation, only as building blocks. It's a product called hempcrete. Sadly I can't be of any help.
@@ttopero The properties seem relatively similar; however, wood fiber insulation comes as compressed batts. We install them in staggered layers, usually 100mm at the base, followed by a 45mm batt. The product is made from wood fiber derived from spruce chips, impregnated with ammonium sulfate/ammonium phosphate. Ammonium is a chemical compound that can also be used in fire extinguishers. The insulation is completely free of brominated flame retardants. The insulation values of wood fiber insulation depend on the density, but it generally provides good thermal insulation compared to traditional materials. I guess if it were to sprayed, it would just have to be put in a thicker layer.
Oh man, that before/after walk up the stairs at the end of the video was killer! Been loving every single video so far. ITs crazy to see the amount of progress in the build so far
Great summary so far. Especially liked the structural drawings showing the 3 parts of the house, what you found, and what you decided all compiled in one video.
This was honestly one of the most engaging and interesting progress videos I’ve ever watched. Your combined skills are going to make you such a success on this platform. Thanks for making us part of your journey!
Had the "pleasure" of renovating a smaller house on the south side of Milwaukee in the early 2000s, it was about 1000 sq feet. Like you I did much of the work myself. I bought the house for $43k, invested about $20k, and sold for it $80k 2.5 years later. BTW, I lived in it for most of he process. I say all this because when I was able to walk the final project and see my handiwork, it was the best feeling ever. Keep the end goal in mind and picture the day you'll be able to relax in this space and listen to a proper violin solo! I'm loving this series and wish you nothing but the best.
Just found you. This is awesome. Not only what you are doing, but the production value of this video. Putting an unexpected live violinist in there...chef's kiss! Keep it up...from a small DIYer doing projects in my Sears Kit Home up here in Lehigh Valley. :)
What a brilliant recap, Chris! Thank you. Your production values and humour make your episodes thoroughly enjoyable. I look forward to your updates every Tuesday morning. I know you'll have moments when you wonder if this was a good idea. It was. Your home will be beautiful and it will be worth it. Plus, the experience you're gaining will be invaluable to your career as an architect. Look at the growth of your channel...amazing but not surprising at all.
I have stripped and remodel a few houses, and at the halfway point often wonder what the F did I get into. But once you break its back and start rebuilding and see new lumber-bricks going in its a great feeling.
I admire your combination of realism and persistance. Most people, I believe, would escape to denial or resignation. I'm sure your house is going to be spectacular. 😊
I just bought a house that turned 100 in 2025. Just removed my first ceiling today, and to my happiness it’s in perfect condition under there. Just have to put isolation and close it back up. Having a lot of fun with you’re project, hope mine won’t turn into something like yours🤞🏻 Keep up the work in the new year! But at least here in the Netherlands I can do my own work :) and waste disposal is free is I bring it with a trailer.
Just wanted to say how much I appreciate the care and detail you put into this series. I found you on instagram and somehow RUclips recommended me you channel. So happy it did. As a photographer myself, I gotta get a print or your book soon. Keep up the excellent work!
I absolutely LOVE all the 3d renderings you’ve shared- from start to your proposed project completion. It’s super interesting to see your vision as things have progressed!
The house is probably the first of many. Exasperation and empty pockets are just part of the process. Thanks to you I'm reliving 30 years of my life spent on several homes. I wouldn't change any of it any I think you'll feel the same when you're finished. BTW, Kudos on the graphics. They're really well done and interesting as hell.
The violinist in an evening gown while the demolition debris falls was a perfectly executed sight gag! Loved it! Love what you're accomplishing with your house! 😊
Having renovated three 1880 homes I will never do it again. But I am pleased to share that we don’t have termites here in New Zealand 🇳🇿. Thank goodness!
30k views in 12 hours! Clearly something’s working. Awesome watching the channel grow. Hopefully you don’t lose your enthusiasm as the grind of it sets in.
it has already been 4 months! time really do fly when you have fun! I love the detailed 3D rendering you used to show the different issues and future plans!! I F*ing love this, keep it up chris!
Great recap and editing Chris, the channel is growing! Keep up the great work. I love these weekly drops. When it's all said and done you're going to have a phenomenal "Renovating a house in an hour" (or 2? so much great footage) compilation video.
Nice to see the overview and all the issues in review. I think the back sitting, dining, plant room is a great idea; love the nook kitchen idea. Can't wait to see your final plans. BTW, I love the Deco book I got for Christmas; you're a real artist!
Excellent overview of the project so far! Interested for sure, seeing how this plays out. Beyond content, the work you put into the videos, is top notch. Thoroughly enjoying this series.😻
I love the journey I have watched you go on since day 1. I appreciate your art and it has helped me finally decide to pursue architecture as my career as I graduate high school next year :). Thanks Chris! I definitely think I’ll get your book.
So much progress. Great job Chris! Thank you for explaining more about the architecture and what happens behind the scenes when renovating. For as someone who isn’t studying/working in architecture this is truly interesting and I get to learn so much through your videos.
I absolutely love the recaps! This is a great reminder of where you’ve come in this incredible project! End of each month recap would be awesome! You’re incredibly talented!
Ahhhh permits. At least you are the architect so you save cost there along with doing your own demo. It’s hard work but you learn from the past and wondering why things were done the way they did. I had to fix an interior door the other day because the hinges were coming out of the frame. As an interior designer and working for an architect I am glad for the knowledge but it’s a curse too. This looks like a fun project. I know from my own experience with an addition I’m working on.
I just came across your channel and can't wait to see what you do to the house! I actually own a home that's just as old and have found many treasures too. My favorite was newspapers under old flooring with articles about Nixon being a Senator, glass marbles, and a closet made from crates stamped the the Pennsylvania Rail Road. I am happy to hear how the brick houses were meant to breathe. I will be watching to see how you tackle putting up new walls and ways to add some insulation to a 100 year old home.
You are doing a great job and the new layout looks so much better. I also love the animations in this episode. The additional money sure hurts, but it will pay off and you are learning so much for for the future
Great summary video of the progress up until this point. I've been following you since you started this project. I hope everything goes smoothly from here. Can't wait to see what it's like when finished.
My wife has a duplex in roxborough , being from down south I never understood the anatomy and value of a row home until the last year or two. this video definitely gave me some inspiration and perspective.
I'm so glad I found this channel and series. I was born ing Philly, but left early then returned to go to St. Joe's for 4 years. My grandparents spent 50 years living in one of those row houses and selling what you're doing brings back so many memories. FWIW, I use to think the basements stairs and original stone walls were so creepy as a kid. I still remember the original bathroom. They had tile floor and walls with a claw foot tub. No showers in those original row homes. Thanks again for documenting this and I can't wait to see where things go.
A wonderfully entertaining and well-produced summary of the job so far - I really enjoyed watching it. I've seen all of your videos so far but was still engrossed by the progress, the process and the production. As ever, the row home thumbnail caught my eye and I knew I couldn't miss it. Bravo and good luck with the next stage.
That was a really great summary of the progress that you've made so far, Chris. You've come a long way in the last four months regarding becoming a popular and likeable RUclips celebrity, so I hope that it doesn't all go to your head, and you remain the humble and grounded person that you are! Looking forward to further progress on your project. Hang in there! 😉😁
when discussing insulation, I had always been taught that it is moisture from inside the structure migrating outward and condensing on the cold parts ie. studs. thus requiring vapor barrier on the warm side of the wall just under the plaster/drywall.
The air barrier(house wrap) stops air and moisture from outside (ie rain) entering the wall but allows moisture to exit the wall as it is permeable to water vapour.
The conversation is definitely more nuanced, the condition flips in the winter with humid air inside and the cold dry exterior, so it is definitely hard to design for both conditions
Aaahh, a refreshing new video!😊. I was looking forward to it! Im really excited to see how everything comes together. I really love the plans for how the kitchen, staircase and skylights will be, this will be a showpiece build, especially for a row home! I'm working on a complete electrical rewire in a house right now, removing all the knob and tube and replacing it all. It's so much easier when the walls are opened up like yours. lol!
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Renovation is addictive. Bro as soon as you get through with this project, you will forget all the frustrating moments and look for another renovation project
I hope so!
@@ChrisHytha Yeah do this. You can flip rowhomes, but unlike normal soulless flippers, you can actually care about preserving the architecture and make money on the YT videos of the process!
As someone with OCD I realized that renovating wasn't for me. The house ended up gorgeous but it took forever. Definitely not addicted lol.
You absolutely forget the lows once it's done. I started a small bathroom update and ended up fully remodeling down to the studs. There were lows, but it's so nice, I don't mind at all. And the $aving$...
I’ll be curious to learn where in the process you enjoyed & did best at versus not. I learned well after leaving architecture that I’m better at the front end of a project but decrease in both as the project went on. Maybe consistent with most architects?
I had a good laugh when you said you were renovating a 150 year old house and the budget was 50k. Happy to see someone putting in the effort to preserve/revive these old homes and I loved the concepts you made.
The absolute insane level of detail in this video is incredible. It has also convinced me that buying a old row home in Philadelphia is a terrible investment but great for RUclips content.
Hahaha if it wasn't for RUclips this house would be a big loss
@@ChrisHytha I can CLEARLY see that. Such a shame too. You're basically indirectly proving that it is literally a TERRIBLE idea to even think about purchasing a rowhome in Philly and that most of these homes (even pre-existing) should be knocked down. I can't imagine how many people are living like this and not realizing their home can fall over at any moment. Scary really.
@@ChrisHythaanother reflection video idea: if you had known the issues you encountered, how would you have reconceived the architectural design? Would you have considered removing the back and/or middle additions (assuming they were additions) & building a new addition? Etc. Maybe something to include in the Philadelphia row house anatomy series-I really want it LOL😉
Oh how far you've come, Chris. Been here since episode 1! Can't wait to see where this goes!
Thanks for your support! Last video got like 100k new viewers unfamiliar with the project so AI thought it was fitting to consolidate the whole story of how we got here
@@ChrisHytha you should make this video the featured video on your channel page so when someone new comes in they are greeted with the last progress summary video (assuming you'll make more of these in the future)
@@ChrisHytha I’m one of those who found you on your last video, excited to follow your journey from Philly :-)
“When I bought the house, I waved all inspections - wouldn’t advise that”
LOOOL at least you’ve learned a lot of new skills from that 😂
I was ready to just jump into it, who knows if I would have got the place otherwise
Oh, I loved the violinist while the ceiling came tumbling down. Chef's kiss.
Creative direction question: violinist in front of falling debris or behind?
Best $100 yet!
I thought it was AI.
Its a crazy adventure coming from a contractor/ Philly home owner (Point Breeze). Never know what you are gonna find in a 100+ year old house. We found newspapers in perfect condition from 1940's acting as underlayment in our last flip. Was like a tine wrap reading all stories about World War II and hosues for sale for $3000 lol.
It's crazy indeed. These houses are full of suprises
@ChrisHytha Did one property found a safe buried in a closed up window box in the basement. Was REALLY hoping to find a long lost copy of the Constitution or something but it was empty. Later found out the house was a speak easy in the 20's -30's hence the safe.
We moved away from Point Breeze, right off 21st and Oakford about a year ago… Miss it dearly. I miss Philly entirely.
@@tylerhemmings great city!
We did too, we have news papers from 1940s in our walls, and dead mice, and a mystery vent that went to who knows where, because the house had radiators for heat.
This is an exceptionally old Philadelphia home, showcasing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s architectural history.
The central section was likely the original structure, framed in a style rarely seen today. Originally, the house would have had a front yard separating it from the street, with the three-story front being a later addition.
In homes from this era, it’s not uncommon to find remnants of a privy pit in the backyard. In some cases, it may even be located beneath the kitchen, which also appears to be an addition to the original home.
Very interesting, I always thought the front was built first, but you may be right
@@ChrisHytha@ChrisHytha, here is an example of a home that could have been your middle section before the front was added. (it in now demolished) www.google.com/maps/@39.9344229,-75.1596481,3a,75y,0.64h,87.67t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw!2e0!5s20120601T000000!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fcb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile%26w%3D900%26h%3D600%26pitch%3D2.329050318096435%26panoid%3DZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw%26yaw%3D0.6448169553469922!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
@@ChrisHytha Here is an example of an original home with a front yard set back behind newer row homes built in the front yard.
www.google.com/maps/@39.9344229,-75.1596481,3a,75y,0.64h,87.67t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw!2e0!5s20120601T000000!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fcb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile%26w%3D900%26h%3D600%26pitch%3D2.329050318096435%26panoid%3DZMlYFnIEOM_SxthufCLpPw%26yaw%3D0.6448169553469922!7i13312!8i6656?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
Wouldn’t say exceptionally old there are thousands of houses in Philly like this
@ You’re absolutely right-Philadelphia has countless old homes, each with its own history and quirks. As a team with extensive experience working in these homes, we’ve seen a lot, but framing like this is definitely not something we come across often. Wood-framed structures like this were largely replaced by masonry construction a long time ago due to fire safety concerns, which is why they’re so rare today. It’s always fascinating to uncover the craftsmanship and unique features of these historic properties while upgrading their electrical and HVAC systems to meet modern needs.
this is very a high production episode, really grabs my attention. Love re-watching the progress, as well as the architectural breakdown! Great job!!!!
Thanks for following along!
Wow!
I LOVE Your new 3D house model! 😍
Thank you! Had lots of fun making those visuals
How did you make those bro. What's the program? @@ChrisHytha
@@CluelessEngineer I used a mix of Revit, Rhino, Twinmotion, and adobe aftereffects. There is no one tool, just an idea, then leverage whatever tools you need to make that idea happen
The entire insulation section of this video was incredibly informative! Thank you.
Loved the recap, with the added info on permitting and becoming a GC. Your editing skills and overall production is amongst the best I've seen on RUclips!
Thank you! 20 weeks of weekly uploads were great practice for making this vid top notch
This is one of if not THE best video you’ve ever made. I’ve followed from day 1 and yet had the best time watching through this recap. Exciting times ahead!!
Cheers! Glad you enjoyed it. This one took 2-3x as long to edit 😅
@@ChrisHythaI’d only ask that you add a time stamp of some sort: week #, date. Oh & hold the text on screen for a few seconds later. Love the chapters!
The violinist was worth it! And wow, the quality of these videos is astonishing. Keep it up and best of luck with everything! Kind regards from Denmark
Thank you! This vid was the longest I have spent editing. Worth it!
If anyone hasn't bought his highrise book, do it. It's a beautifully done book. Gave mine to my sister-in-law, so now I have to order another! Lots of cool info in there and the shots are amazing!
Thanks for your support! That book was a labor of love
Your videos are getting better and better, this one was killer will all the animations. It gave me a really good understanding of how your house is split up. Thank you!
They were fun to make too!
@@ChrisHytha it’s really impressive dude. I’m always envious of creatives, keep up the good work!
I work on the zoning side of permitting as a planner, alongside a building department, and this video was incredibly informative for me learning some of the finer details of construction I haven't seen before. Thanks for sharing those concepts!
im born and raised in south philly and i just finshed watching all 22 videos of this series today
You're my hero, glad you are enjoying the process
Great recap. Crazy to see how far the videos have come in just 4 months
It was fun to take a trip down memory lane looking back at the footage
LFG!! Nothing beats the feeling of borrowing hundreds of thousands of dollars for something you immediately start hitting with a hammer...I been there brotha!
Really liked how you showed the diagram of the house. Makes it so easy to understand what you are doing.
Think you made the right decision about the middle part!
Thanks! I had so much fun with the animations
@@ChrisHytha maybe leave the prices on the screen a bit longer as they were hard to read before they disappeared
Great video I normally skip recap videos. Editing is supreme and the 3d modeling of your house is not only so so helpful, but totally unique to your channel. I hope this recap will bring you many new viewers. Kudos Edit: me, mom and sister all twisted our ankles on stairs like that in an old Butte, Mt home. So be very careful keeping them
I made sure to add some new content too! Thanks for your support
Loved the fleshed out animations, discussions of wall sheathing tech, etc. As someone with very limited understanding of construction and how buildings actually work, they really helped clarify the last 4 months and made this video super interesting to eatch, even though I've been here most of that time for the weekly videos.
Glad you enjoyed this one! Thanks
The $100 investment at the end of the video was a perfect closure. Sitting here assuming it was just stock music playing only to cut to her "performance" was a great idea. I would have loved to see her face when you were explaining the shot before hand. "... ill on the floor above dropping pieces of the wall i tore out... " 😁
It was a hilarious process to film that shot, and AI was so glad she was down to do it
That was so informative. Just like a course in doing a major renovation! Your drawings help to make it much clearer. Very few channels do that. All that and somehow you make it entertaining too. Congratulations on having the patience to demolish that chimney!!! What a job.
as a philly renter i always wanted to buy a rowhome in the city. Your videos have been really educational and have showed some insight as to what to expect 😅 keep em coming!
Good luck on one day doing the same! Hopefully with less issues tho
Since day 1, it's been absolutely splendid seeing your growth with this project and within yourself. I love your artistic visons so very much and am beyond inspired by you!
Nice retrospective. I liked the section on insulation. These homes do bring some challenges! I think it’s going to be really nice in the end.
Native West Philadelphian here and can I just say that I have been beyond annoyed with the cookie cutter houses that have been popping up all over the city. My dream is to one day own one of these beautiful row homes and try to restore and highlight the character and charm that once graced these halls. I have been enjoying your videos and they give me hope that while it’s easier to just demolish these homes it’s so much more satisfying and rewarding to try and capture the charm that once lived within these walls… thank you for this series!
Thanks for your support!
thank you for sticking with the filming for youtube. i hope that these video compilations give you clarity on this ever-convoluted situation. it's a joy to see the realness. best of luck
Hey Chris, as you mention in your insulation segment, it can be quite tricky going from and old naturally ventilated house to a modern enclosed style house. You are absolutely correct about old houses being able to breath, and you as you said yourself, just insulating with mineral wool, removing the house's ability to circulate air would contribute to mold, due to a plastic vaporbarrier and mineral wool being dead static materials. Mineral wool would just get wet and stay wet.
If you like the idea of a breathable house, that is well insulated and extremely fire safe, hygroscopic materials might be something for you to consider.
Wood fiber insulation, breathable and absorbs and releases moisture depending on the relative humidity of the air. Wood fiber insulation has soft fibers and consists of more mass (kg per m3), which means that it absorbs and dampens the sound very well. Also very fire resistant due to the moister content, which makes it smoke, rather than burn.
On the interior wall use a diffusion-open steam brake, which is also self-regulating, moisture can dry inwards in the room, thus helping to dry out unwanted excess moisture.
and on the exterior wall use a wood fiber asphalt wind barrier, which will reduce cold bridges due to additional insulating properties. 12 mm Windproof corresponds to almost 10 mm of standard mineral wool.
In Denmark, where I am from, it's approved, but I don't know about the US. But again, its something to look into.
Hello! I am watching this series as a preview to my own row home reno and am wondering if you have any feedback on using hemp for insulation?
Is the wood insulation you mention similar to our cellulose insulation? It is derived from wood pulp & has the kind of properties you describe
@@theroadlesstraveled21 I dont have any experience using hemp as insulation, only as building blocks. It's a product called hempcrete. Sadly I can't be of any help.
@@ttopero The properties seem relatively similar; however, wood fiber insulation comes as compressed batts. We install them in staggered layers, usually 100mm at the base, followed by a 45mm batt. The product is made from wood fiber derived from spruce chips, impregnated with ammonium sulfate/ammonium phosphate. Ammonium is a chemical compound that can also be used in fire extinguishers. The insulation is completely free of brominated flame retardants.
The insulation values of wood fiber insulation depend on the density, but it generally provides good thermal insulation compared to traditional materials. I guess if it were to sprayed, it would just have to be put in a thicker layer.
Oh man, that before/after walk up the stairs at the end of the video was killer! Been loving every single video so far. ITs crazy to see the amount of progress in the build so far
It was fun to look back into the archive of videos to put this together!
Great summary so far. Especially liked the structural drawings showing the 3 parts of the house, what you found, and what you decided all compiled in one video.
This was honestly one of the most engaging and interesting progress videos I’ve ever watched. Your combined skills are going to make you such a success on this platform. Thanks for making us part of your journey!
And thank you for following along!
Had the "pleasure" of renovating a smaller house on the south side of Milwaukee in the early 2000s, it was about 1000 sq feet. Like you I did much of the work myself. I bought the house for $43k, invested about $20k, and sold for it $80k 2.5 years later. BTW, I lived in it for most of he process.
I say all this because when I was able to walk the final project and see my handiwork, it was the best feeling ever. Keep the end goal in mind and picture the day you'll be able to relax in this space and listen to a proper violin solo!
I'm loving this series and wish you nothing but the best.
Structural figures are a big help in following along even though I've rennovated a half dozen homes.
I find it fascinating learning what things cost
Just found you. This is awesome. Not only what you are doing, but the production value of this video. Putting an unexpected live violinist in there...chef's kiss!
Keep it up...from a small DIYer doing projects in my Sears Kit Home up here in Lehigh Valley. :)
Thanks for your support!
@@ChrisHytha ...also from a former broadcast journalist and TV producer (so my video comment has some weight)! ;)
This was the best illustration and explanation of insulation I've ever seen. I learned so much
I so enjoy your channel. You are moving along with good humour and grace! Plus you are a very good teacher. I look forward to 2025’s adventures.
What a brilliant recap, Chris! Thank you. Your production values and humour make your episodes thoroughly enjoyable.
I look forward to your updates every Tuesday morning.
I know you'll have moments when you wonder if this was a good idea. It was. Your home will be beautiful and it will be worth it. Plus, the experience you're gaining will be invaluable to your career as an architect.
Look at the growth of your channel...amazing but not surprising at all.
Thanks for your support!
I have stripped and remodel a few houses, and at the halfway point often wonder what the F did I get into. But once you break its back and start rebuilding and see new lumber-bricks going in its a great feeling.
I can't wait to start seeing the new lumber go in
So happy to get an episode right as it comes out! Love watching your journey!
Thanks for following along! This video is the most time editing so far. 3 days of 12 hour work putting it together! Enjoy
I admire your combination of realism and persistance. Most people, I believe, would escape to denial or resignation. I'm sure your house is going to be spectacular. 😊
Thanks for following along!
I also live in Philly and love our rowhomes. Sad that so many are blighted. I bought my little rowhome in 2021. I love watching your videos.
Your editing style is top tier!
Thank you!
I just bought a house that turned 100 in 2025. Just removed my first ceiling today, and to my happiness it’s in perfect condition under there. Just have to put isolation and close it back up. Having a lot of fun with you’re project, hope mine won’t turn into something like yours🤞🏻 Keep up the work in the new year!
But at least here in the Netherlands I can do my own work :) and waste disposal is free is I bring it with a trailer.
Good luck with your project! Glad it's in better shape. Thanks for following along
Just wanted to say how much I appreciate the care and detail you put into this series. I found you on instagram and somehow RUclips recommended me you channel. So happy it did. As a photographer myself, I gotta get a print or your book soon. Keep up the excellent work!
Thanks for your support!
I absolutely LOVE all the 3d renderings you’ve shared- from start to your proposed project completion. It’s super interesting to see your vision as things have progressed!
This 36 year commercial real estate broker who has renovated 12 houses was FASCINATED during this well done video!
The house is probably the first of many. Exasperation and empty pockets are just part of the process. Thanks to you I'm reliving 30 years of my life spent on several homes. I wouldn't change any of it any I think you'll feel the same when you're finished. BTW, Kudos on the graphics. They're really well done and interesting as hell.
Your animations in this video were immaculate, and your weekly uploads make Mondays worth waking up for.
Cheers, glad you enjoyed!
Just found your channel last week and now I feel fully caught up on season 1 of your home renovation. In the full for the rest of this ride!
Thanks for following along!
The violinist in an evening gown while the demolition debris falls was a perfectly executed sight gag! Loved it! Love what you're accomplishing with your house! 😊
Thanks for your support!
Having renovated three 1880 homes I will never do it again. But I am pleased to share that we don’t have termites here in New Zealand 🇳🇿. Thank goodness!
Thanks for making my old car engine rebuild project look easy by comparison!😊
I wish you success bro, job well done.
Your editing skills are getting really good! Love the new 3d models
Thanks! The model was so fun to render out. Took awhile though, well worth it
30k views in 12 hours! Clearly something’s working. Awesome watching the channel grow. Hopefully you don’t lose your enthusiasm as the grind of it sets in.
can't believe I haven't come across content like this before. Great to see. Doing Gods work saving that building
it has already been 4 months! time really do fly when you have fun! I love the detailed 3D rendering you used to show the different issues and future plans!! I F*ing love this, keep it up chris!
Thanks for your support!
i really hope your vids go viral. GL dude.
I hope so too!
Congrats working on contractors license, great idea, will help a lot. Working hard.
This thumbnail is my favorite.
That actually house is a few houses down from my current apartment, one of my favs too
LOVE THIS VIDEO! Excellent review and you make it really easy to follow. I love the way you write and edit your videos. 👍
Thank you! This one took some extra effort
I’m glad you have invested in some PPE. I started cringing watching you do demo work wearing just a paper mask!
Great recap and editing Chris, the channel is growing! Keep up the great work. I love these weekly drops. When it's all said and done you're going to have a phenomenal "Renovating a house in an hour" (or 2? so much great footage) compilation video.
For sure! And getting the story down from the first 20 weeks will be a huge help for that full vid at the end
Nice to see the overview and all the issues in review. I think the back sitting, dining, plant room is a great idea; love the nook kitchen idea. Can't wait to see your final plans. BTW, I love the Deco book I got for Christmas; you're a real artist!
Cheers! Thanks for your support, and glad to hear you're enjoying the book!
Your graphics and drawings are a huge help in understanding your challenges and ideas.
I watch the weekly updates but this was a nice refresher on everything that has happened. Cant wait to see what happens next.
Thanks for following along! It was fun to look back and put together the whole story
This video is so enjoyable. Can't wait for more!
Thanks for watching!
Been following since episode one. Love your positive mindset bro, house is going to look wicked when it’s done 🤙🏼
Cheers, thanks for your support!
Incredible production quality! Love the 3D animations of your house. Great work!
Hey, what a great lil recap! Can't wait to see more of the renovation as it moves forward :)
Excellent overview of the project so far! Interested for sure, seeing how this plays out. Beyond content, the work you put into the videos, is top notch. Thoroughly enjoying this series.😻
Thank you! Extra work went into this instalment, proud of how it turned out
This is an excellent recap! These videos are always the highlight of my week. Love what you're doing.
the exposed real brick is beautiful
Very entertaining! Thank you! 😃
I love the journey I have watched you go on since day 1. I appreciate your art and it has helped me finally decide to pursue architecture as my career as I graduate high school next year :). Thanks Chris! I definitely think I’ll get your book.
That's awesome to hear! I absolutely loved architecture school. Good luck!
Keep that progress going! We're rooting for you!
So much progress. Great job Chris! Thank you for explaining more about the architecture and what happens behind the scenes when renovating. For as someone who isn’t studying/working in architecture this is truly interesting and I get to learn so much through your videos.
Excellent video!! Keep rocking!!
What a cool project you have here.
I am really looking forward to this!
Thanks for following along!
Really cool work! You documenting your process has been so helpful and informative for so many of us. Cheers :)
I absolutely love the recaps! This is a great reminder of where you’ve come in this incredible project! End of each month recap would be awesome! You’re incredibly talented!
Thanks for your support!
You're a very talented guy. Thanks for sharing with us.
Ahhhh permits. At least you are the architect so you save cost there along with doing your own demo. It’s hard work but you learn from the past and wondering why things were done the way they did. I had to fix an interior door the other day because the hinges were coming out of the frame.
As an interior designer and working for an architect I am glad for the knowledge but it’s a curse too. This looks like a fun project. I know from my own experience with an addition I’m working on.
I just came across your channel and can't wait to see what you do to the house! I actually own a home that's just as old and have found many treasures too. My favorite was newspapers under old flooring with articles about Nixon being a Senator, glass marbles, and a closet made from crates stamped the the Pennsylvania Rail Road.
I am happy to hear how the brick houses were meant to breathe. I will be watching to see how you tackle putting up new walls and ways to add some insulation to a 100 year old home.
I forgot all about termites! Nasty bugs. Good thing you got rid of them! Great progress, keep up the good work 😊 we will keep watching!
Thanks for your support! Termites make for great content. It would be too easy without them!
You are doing a great job and the new layout looks so much better. I also love the animations in this episode. The additional money sure hurts, but it will pay off and you are learning so much for for the future
Thanks for your feedback! Excited to one day move in
This is my dream. I live in DC and I’ve made it my goal to do something similar to one of the homes here.
Thanks for the recap on your project. So good to hear that you got approved and you can move forward. Good luck.
Thanks for following along!
Great summary video of the progress up until this point. I've been following you since you started this project. I hope everything goes smoothly from here. Can't wait to see what it's like when finished.
I salute you C. Hytha!
By far one of the most interesting video series. Keep up the great work.
Cheers, thanks for your support!
My wife has a duplex in roxborough , being from down south I never understood the anatomy and value of a row home until the last year or two. this video definitely gave me some inspiration and perspective.
I'm so glad I found this channel and series. I was born ing Philly, but left early then returned to go to St. Joe's for 4 years. My grandparents spent 50 years living in one of those row houses and selling what you're doing brings back so many memories. FWIW, I use to think the basements stairs and original stone walls were so creepy as a kid. I still remember the original bathroom. They had tile floor and walls with a claw foot tub. No showers in those original row homes.
Thanks again for documenting this and I can't wait to see where things go.
(13:00) WOWWWW!!!😍 Chris, this is going to be major.
A wonderfully entertaining and well-produced summary of the job so far - I really enjoyed watching it. I've seen all of your videos so far but was still engrossed by the progress, the process and the production. As ever, the row home thumbnail caught my eye and I knew I couldn't miss it. Bravo and good luck with the next stage.
Cheers, thanks for your support! Really leaned into the story telling in this one
That was a really great summary of the progress that you've made so far, Chris. You've come a long way in the last four months regarding becoming a popular and likeable RUclips celebrity, so I hope that it doesn't all go to your head, and you remain the humble and grounded person that you are! Looking forward to further progress on your project. Hang in there! 😉😁
I'll stick to my roots!
when discussing insulation, I had always been taught that it is moisture from inside the structure migrating outward and condensing on the cold parts ie. studs. thus requiring vapor barrier on the warm side of the wall just under the plaster/drywall.
The air barrier(house wrap) stops air and moisture from outside (ie rain) entering the wall but allows moisture to exit the wall as it is permeable to water vapour.
The conversation is definitely more nuanced, the condition flips in the winter with humid air inside and the cold dry exterior, so it is definitely hard to design for both conditions
What a great summary!
Aaahh, a refreshing new video!😊. I was looking forward to it! Im really excited to see how everything comes together. I really love the plans for how the kitchen, staircase and skylights will be, this will be a showpiece build, especially for a row home! I'm working on a complete electrical rewire in a house right now, removing all the knob and tube and replacing it all. It's so much easier when the walls are opened up like yours. lol!