Who is brett waterman partner

Overview

Brett Waterman is an American television personality, restoration expert, and preservationist who gained national recognition as the host of HGTV's popular series 'Restored'. The show premiered in 2018 and has since completed multiple seasons, showcasing Waterman's unique approach to historic home restoration. Unlike many home renovation shows that feature teams or partnerships, Waterman operates as a solo expert, personally overseeing every aspect of the restoration process from initial assessment to final completion.

Waterman's career in restoration began long before his television fame, with over two decades of experience working on historic properties throughout Southern California. He developed his expertise through hands-on work rather than formal architectural training, learning traditional building techniques and preservation methods through practical application. His approach emphasizes authenticity and historical accuracy, often researching original construction methods and sourcing period-appropriate materials for each project.

The television series 'Restored' typically features homes built between 1880 and 1940, with Waterman working closely with homeowners to preserve architectural integrity while updating properties for modern living. Each episode follows a similar structure: Waterman assesses a dilapidated historic home, develops a restoration plan, oversees the construction process, and reveals the completed transformation. The show's success has made Waterman one of HGTV's most recognizable preservation experts, though he maintains a relatively private personal life with no publicly disclosed business partnerships.

How It Works

Brett Waterman's restoration process follows a systematic approach that balances historical preservation with practical functionality.

• Initial Assessment and Research: Waterman begins each project with extensive research into the home's history, original architectural style, and construction methods. He examines historical records, photographs, and architectural plans when available, spending approximately 40-60 hours on research before developing a restoration plan. This phase includes identifying original features worth preserving and understanding the home's structural integrity.
• Architectural Preservation Planning: Waterman develops detailed restoration plans that prioritize preserving original elements while addressing modern needs. He typically preserves 70-80% of original architectural features, including moldings, flooring, windows, and structural elements. The planning phase involves creating comprehensive documentation and obtaining necessary permits, which can take 2-4 weeks depending on the property's historical designation.
• Traditional Construction Methods: Waterman employs traditional building techniques that match the home's original construction period. This includes using hand tools, traditional joinery methods, and period-appropriate materials. He often works with specialized craftspeople who maintain traditional skills, such as plaster artisans, woodworkers, and stained glass specialists. Each project typically involves 10-15 specialized tradespeople working under Waterman's direction.
• Modern Integration: While preserving historical elements, Waterman strategically integrates modern systems and amenities. This includes updating electrical systems to meet current codes (typically requiring 200-amp service), installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, and incorporating modern plumbing while maintaining period-appropriate fixtures. He balances preservation with livability, ensuring homes meet contemporary standards while retaining historical character.

The restoration process typically follows a sequential timeline, with structural work completed first, followed by systems updates, and finishing with cosmetic restoration. Waterman maintains hands-on involvement throughout, often working alongside contractors and craftspeople. His approach emphasizes quality over speed, with projects taking significantly longer than typical renovations but resulting in historically accurate and durable restorations.

Types / Categories / Comparisons

Historic restoration approaches vary significantly based on philosophy, methodology, and goals. Brett Waterman's approach represents one specific methodology within the broader field of historic preservation.

Waterman's approach occupies a middle ground between commercial renovation and museum-quality preservation. Unlike commercial renovators who prioritize speed and profit, Waterman emphasizes historical authenticity while ensuring homes remain functional for contemporary living. Compared to museum-quality preservation that often restricts modern conveniences, Waterman's method allows for necessary updates while maintaining historical integrity. This balanced approach has proven particularly successful for residential properties where owners want both historical character and modern comfort.

Real-World Applications / Examples

• Southern California Craftsman Homes: Waterman has restored numerous Craftsman-style homes built between 1900-1930, typically preserving original woodwork, built-in cabinetry, and stained glass. One notable project involved a 1912 Craftsman bungalow in Pasadena where Waterman preserved 85% of original features while adding earthquake retrofitting and modern kitchen appliances. The restoration took 5 months and cost approximately $350,000, increasing the home's value by 200% while maintaining historical designation.
• Victorian Era Restorations: Waterman frequently works on Victorian homes from the late 19th century, focusing on intricate woodwork, decorative trim, and period-appropriate color schemes. A prominent example is a Queen Anne Victorian in Los Angeles built in 1887, where Waterman restored original gingerbread trim, repaired 12-foot pocket doors, and preserved the home's distinctive turret. The project required sourcing custom-milled wood trim and specialized plaster work, taking 6 months to complete with a budget of $425,000.
• Mid-Century Modern Preservation: While best known for older homes, Waterman has also restored mid-century modern properties from the 1940s-1960s. These projects emphasize preserving clean lines, original materials like terrazzo and teak, and period-appropriate landscaping. One restoration involved a 1958 Richard Neutra-inspired home where Waterman preserved the original post-and-beam construction while updating electrical systems and adding energy-efficient windows. The project demonstrated his versatility across architectural periods.

These examples illustrate Waterman's consistent methodology across different architectural styles. Each project begins with thorough historical research, followed by careful documentation of existing conditions. Waterman then develops a restoration plan that identifies which elements to preserve, which to replicate, and where modern updates are necessary. His hands-on approach ensures quality control throughout the process, with particular attention to material authenticity and craftsmanship quality. The completed projects typically achieve historical designation while providing comfortable, functional living spaces.

Why It Matters

Brett Waterman's work represents an important contribution to historic preservation in an era of rapid development and architectural homogenization. His television series has brought attention to the value of preserving architectural heritage, educating millions of viewers about traditional building techniques and historical design principles. This increased visibility has helped generate public support for preservation efforts and demonstrated that historic homes can be both beautiful and functional for contemporary living.

The economic impact of quality historic restoration extends beyond individual properties. Well-restored historic homes typically maintain or increase property values in their neighborhoods, contributing to community stability and character preservation. Waterman's projects often serve as catalysts for neighborhood revitalization, inspiring other homeowners to invest in preservation rather than demolition. His work also supports traditional crafts and trades that might otherwise disappear, providing employment for artisans skilled in historical building methods.

Looking forward, Waterman's approach offers a sustainable model for dealing with aging housing stock. Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, which generates significant waste and consumes new resources, restoration repurposes existing structures with historical and material value. As environmental concerns grow, the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings represents an increasingly important sustainability strategy. Waterman's success demonstrates that preservation can be both economically viable and environmentally responsible, providing a template for future conservation efforts across the country.