This Old House

Los Angeles; Spanish Plaster, Soapstone, and a Star (32x24)

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Plaster specialist Alfonso Garcia shows host Kevin O'Connor how he is wrapping the kitchen cabinets in plaster for a look that is reminiscent of those found in Mexico. He fashions an archway over the sink, a cove at the ceiling, and a freehand bullnose detail at the corners. Then, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey meets up with local plumbing contractor Noe Lopez to lend a hand as he installs the pedestal sink in the first floor powder room. In the kitchen, master carpenter Norm Abram meets countertop contractor Tim Farr to see the soapstone countertops going in, and learns how to care for them going forward. Custom woodworker Larry Bucklan shows Norm how he is replicating the original ceiling star from the dining room for use in other parts of the house. With the profile matched and run and the miters cut, the pieces are joined with biscuits and glue and dried with an RF glue drier. Back at the house, carpenter Josheulo Mondragon installs the star with glue and a few finish nails. Outside, ornamental iron contractor Jeff Bradley and his crew install the 400-pound Juliette balcony, while inside, his wife and designer Robin Bradley show Norm the new decorative iron balustrade that is accented with circles of amber-colored glass.