An Exclusive Interview with Kevin O’Connor: Inside the World of This Old House

Welcome to our inaugural interview feature, where we sit down with the charismatic host of America’s beloved home improvement show, This Old House, Kevin O’Connor. Before becoming a household name in the DIY community, Kevin carved out a successful career in finance. Yet, his true passion lay in the intricate world of home renovation, particularly his own 1894 Queen Anne Victorian, which he meticulously set about transforming.

Kevin’s remarkable journey from a banking professional to the face of a television institution is nothing short of legendary. Russell Morash, the visionary creator of This Old House, once famously observed, “In Kevin, we found the perfect mixture of optimism and energy, two ingredients an old house owner must have to survive.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates Kevin’s infectious enthusiasm and practical approach, qualities that have resonated deeply with audiences for years.

Having earned an Emmy nomination in his very first season, Kevin O’Connor has now helmed This Old House and its popular spin-off, Ask This Old House, for an impressive 16 seasons. His tenure has seen countless homes brought back to life, countless lessons shared, and a continually growing legion of fans inspired by the show’s authentic portrayal of craftsmanship and dedication.

C&H: Kevin O’Connor’s Unlikely Path to Hosting This Old House

C&H: Your recruitment as the host of This Old House is quite a unique and serendipitous tale. Could you share the captivating story of how you landed this dream job?

Kevin: It truly is a remarkable story, one that still brings a smile to my face even years later. It all began about five years before I started hosting, when my wife and I purchased our first home. It was an 1894 Queen Anne, a genuine fixer-upper that needed attention from top to bottom. This was precisely what we were looking for – a project that we could pour our hearts and hands into, transforming it into our dream home.

However, the reality of renovating such an old and complex structure quickly set in. We soon found ourselves in over our heads, facing numerous challenges that went beyond our initial DIY ambitions. After several months of tireless work, encountering one hurdle after another, we decided to reach out to This Old House for some much-needed guidance. It felt like a logical step, given that I had grown up watching the show and had always been an ardent admirer of its experts and their practical advice.

To our absolute astonishment, This Old House didn’t just respond to our email; they took it a step further. A film crew actually came to our house to shoot a segment for the show, specifically for Ask This Old House. My wife and I were beyond thrilled. It was an incredible experience, getting to meet legendary crew members like Jim Clark, the show’s painting expert, and of course, the one and only Tom Silva.

After a fantastic half-day of filming and camaraderie, the crew departed, and I assumed that was the extent of our brush with television fame. I celebrated the moment, snapped a picture with the team, cracked open a beer, and eagerly called my friends to recount my brief foray into TV. The very next day, I put my suit back on and returned to my regular job as a corporate banker, believing the adventure was over.

Then, about three months later, completely out of the blue, I received a phone call from a This Old House producer. He asked if I would be interested in “helping with the show.” I had no idea what that vague invitation entailed, and he remained quite cagey about the details. Nevertheless, I figured I had such a positive experience when the crew visited our home, so I had absolutely nothing to lose by exploring the opportunity.

My journey continued with a meeting at the studio, followed by another at one of Tommy Silva’s active job sites. And then, as if in a whirlwind, they presented me with the incredible offer to become the host of the two most popular home improvement shows on television. It felt bizarre, surreal even, but it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. From that moment on, I never looked back, embracing this unexpected and exhilarating new chapter wholeheartedly.

C&H: The Transformative Impact of Hosting This Old House

C&H: Beyond the obvious boost to your DIY knowledge, how has your life been most profoundly impacted by your career change as the host of This Old House?

Kevin: On a day-to-day level, it’s very much a job, just like any other. There’s the routine of waking up early, working long hours, traveling extensively, and continuously striving to produce a high-quality product. This can be quite a weight, especially when you inherit a legacy as significant as This Old House. There’s a constant drive to uphold its esteemed reputation and ensure you don’t, as they say, “screw it up.”

However, it’s also much more than just a job; it’s an incredibly fulfilling career. The biggest impact on my life has been the profound shift in my daily existence. This role allows me to engage my creative faculties, challenging me in ways I never anticipated. I learn something new every single day, which is an invaluable gift. Furthermore, it grants me extraordinary exposure and access to subjects and crafts that I am deeply passionate about. And perhaps most importantly, I get to work alongside a team of individuals who share that same unwavering passion, creating a truly collaborative and inspiring environment.

It might sound clichéd, but the aspects of fame – being recognized in public, signing autographs, or getting a prime table at a restaurant – all of that is inherently fleeting. It quickly recedes into background noise. These external validations don’t truly satiate or fulfill any deeper part of who I am. What genuinely excites me is the opportunity to work, to create, and to contribute meaningfully. Thanks to this job, I have that incredible opportunity every single day, whether I’m at the office or, more often than not, right there on a bustling job site, witnessing craftsmanship unfold.

C&H: Kevin’s Most Cherished This Old House Projects

C&H: Do you have a particular favorite house project from your time on the show, and what made it stand out for you?

Kevin: I’ll always hold a special place in my heart for my very first project, the quaint little barn conversion we undertook in Concord, Massachusetts. It was elegantly simple, yet profoundly thrilling for me because it was my debut. That initial experience solidified my love for the process and the satisfaction of seeing a vision come to life.

However, my all-time favorite has to be the Carlisle project, which we tackled the following year. This particular endeavor was extra special as it coincided with the show’s 25th anniversary, making it a celebratory and ambitious undertaking. The scope of the project was truly immense, unlike anything we had done before.

It involved three distinct buildings on one property. We embarked on a full renovation of one structure, completely rebuilt another from the ground up, and impressively converted a third – a working barn – into a magnificent, livable space. I absolutely loved the sheer scale of the project, the intricate challenges it presented, and the unique opportunity to spend more time than usual on a single build. Instead of the typical 18 episodes, we dedicated a full season of 26 episodes to Carlisle. This extended timeline allowed us to delve much deeper into the stories behind the project, exploring every nuance and detail, which made for incredibly rich television.

What made Carlisle truly exceptional was the fact that we, This Old House, actually owned the property. This was a significant departure from our usual model of working for individual homeowners with real-world budget constraints. Owning the property gave us unparalleled freedom to truly build our “dream house,” incorporating all the bells and whistles, exploring innovative techniques, and showcasing the very best of craftsmanship without compromise. This not only made for spectacular television but was also an immense amount of fun for the entire crew. Even after working on six more projects since then, Carlisle remains my absolute favorite, a benchmark of what’s possible when passion meets unrestricted creativity.

C&H: Rebuilding New Orleans with This Old House

C&H: How is the New Orleans project progressing, and what is This Old House’s underlying philosophy toward the rebuilding efforts in the city?

Kevin: The New Orleans project is undeniably one of our toughest undertakings to date. The city faces significant challenges, including a persistent labor shortage and ongoing issues with infrastructure, which means that everything, from securing materials to coordinating crews, seems to take considerably longer in NOLA. Despite these hurdles, we are absolutely committed to completing our project, a feat that requires incredibly hard work and dedication, especially from our producer who is constantly making miracles happen on the ground every single day.

Of course, the local craftsmen and women who are actually doing the physical work are the true heroes, making everything possible. When we undertake projects out of state, we rely entirely on our local teams for their expertise, local knowledge, and tireless efforts. Their contributions are indispensable.

Regarding our philosophy for New Orleans, I’m not sure we have a formalized “company philosophy.” For us, it boils down to the fact that it’s a good project with a compelling story, and that’s ultimately what matters most to the show. We believe in telling authentic stories and showcasing the human spirit.

That said, I’m certain every member of our crew holds their own personal perspective on the project and the profound significance of being involved in New Orleans’ rebuilding. Personally, I try not to get bogged down in the political debates or the shouting matches about what should or shouldn’t be rebuilt in the city. My commitment stemmed from a very personal connection: when I met the homeowner and heard her incredible story, I was immediately on board.

She grew up in that very neighborhood, purchased her home, and spent a year tirelessly fixing it up with friends, all while living in it. Then, tragically, Hurricane Katrina hit, and her home was submerged under six feet of floodwater after the levees broke, destroying all her hard work. She spent two arduous years fighting to regain access to her house, diligently raising money, and meticulously planning its reconstruction. Now, with the help of This Old House, we are working to ensure her new home not only respects the historic character of the original structure but also harmonizes with the unique architectural heritage of her beloved neighborhood.

Along the way, we’re dedicated to sharing powerful stories of individuals and communities rebuilding their lives and homes. We also aim to educate our viewers about the distinctive New Orleans architecture and building styles, providing valuable insights into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. For all these reasons, I am fully committed to this meaningful project.

C&H: The Expanding Landscape of Online DIY Resources

C&H: What are your thoughts on the rapid growth of online DIY sites, particularly independent publishers like ourselves or platforms such as Houseblogs.net? Do you find yourself referencing any specific online resources beyond ThisOldHouse.com?

Kevin: The explosion in DIY content and resources is truly remarkable, and I view it with mixed feelings. On one hand, I absolutely love it because I see it as a validation for all of us who are passionate about houses and dedicated do-it-yourselfers. The sheer number of fantastic shows and websites that exist today, which were completely absent just a few years ago, is incredibly exciting. It means more people are engaging with home improvement, learning new skills, and finding inspiration for their own projects. This accessibility to information empowers homeowners in unprecedented ways.

However, and this is the flip side, there’s also a considerable amount of lower-quality content out there. With the proliferation of platforms, it’s inevitable that not everything will meet a high standard. I can easily think of a dozen shows and websites that, frankly, wouldn’t hold my interest for even a nanosecond due to their lack of authenticity, practical value, or genuine expertise. The challenge for consumers now is to sift through the vast amount of information to find reliable, trustworthy, and truly helpful resources. It underscores the importance of established brands like This Old House, which maintain a consistent level of quality and credible information.

C&H: The Authentic Bonds of the This Old House Crew

C&H: How close are you with the other guys on the show, and is there anything you can share about them that viewers might not know, keeping it tasteful, of course?

Kevin: The five core guys of This Old House are incredibly tight-knit, and I am genuinely honored that they welcomed me into their extended family. They’ve been working together, forming deep bonds, for over two decades, so in many ways, I still consider myself “the new guy” in that established dynamic. Despite that, they made me feel like an integral part of the team from day one, and now, we’ve developed into genuinely close friends, both on and off camera.

Remarkably, there aren’t any juicy secrets or shocking tidbits to reveal about them, and that’s precisely what I love about the crew. Each one of them is as down-to-earth, genuine, and regular as they appear on television. Honestly, what you see is truly what you get, and that authenticity is a huge part of the show’s enduring appeal and why I respect them so much. After all these years in the public eye and all the exposure that comes with being on a popular TV show, each of them remains unchanged. They are approachable, incredibly humble, and profoundly dedicated to their respective crafts. And I don’t just mean the craft of making engaging television; I’m referring to their foundational trades: carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, and painting. They are not only fantastic friends but also incredible role models for aspiring craftsmen and anyone who appreciates true skill and dedication.

C&H: The Dominant Trend in Renovation: Green Building

C&H: Can you share any particular remodeling or renovating trends you’re observing, and which ones do you believe hold the most relevance for homeowners today?

Kevin: Without a doubt, the single biggest and most impactful trend in home renovation right now is “green building,” however one chooses to define it. It feels as if we are living through a perfect storm of converging consequences, where multiple factors are aligning to drive this movement forward with unprecedented momentum. Homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of the escalating costs of fuel and energy, the undeniable realities of global warming, and perhaps most critically, the significant resources our homes consume and the substantial environmental impact that consumption has on our planet.

While this might seem like a predictable answer, it’s important to understand that what we’re witnessing is not just a passing fad but a genuine revolution in how we approach building and renovating our living spaces. This awareness is transforming consumer demand and pushing the industry towards more sustainable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly practices. From material choices to heating and cooling systems, and even water conservation, every aspect of home improvement is being re-evaluated through a “green” lens. It’s an exciting time, as innovation in this sector is blossoming, promising a future where homes are not only beautiful and functional but also responsible stewards of our natural resources.

C&H: The Future of Green Building and Kevin’s Hosting Style

C&H: What do you believe it will take for the green building movement to achieve even wider acceptance and become a mainstream practice?

Kevin: The most significant shift we’re seeing, and what I believe will truly propel the green building movement into mainstream acceptance, is a change in driving force. Traditionally, these ideas were primarily pushed by practitioners – architects, builders, and environmental advocates. However, we are now experiencing a powerful transition where the consumer is actively *pulling* these ideas. This shift in demand, driven by homeowners seeking more sustainable and energy-efficient options, is a much more potent and unstoppable force. As consumer awareness grows and the market responds, green building will become the norm, not the exception.

The field itself is still very much in its infancy, rapidly evolving with new technologies and methodologies emerging constantly. It’s genuinely impossible to predict with certainty which specific forms, technologies, or conventional practices will ultimately emerge as the undisputed winners. However, one prediction I can confidently make is that this movement is here to stay. The American consumer, when united by shared values and economic realities, represents an incredibly powerful force that will continue to shape the future of home construction and renovation for decades to come.

C&H: What unique “stamp” or approach do you feel you’ve brought to This Old House that might distinguish your hosting style from your predecessors?

Kevin: I believe my primary “stamp” on the show is a sense of approachability. My role as the host is not to position myself as an all-knowing expert on every single trade or craft. That would not only be disingenuous but would also make for bad, inauthentic television. Instead, my core responsibility is to serve as a conduit for the audience: to ask insightful questions and to skillfully draw out the wealth of incredible information from our master craftsmen, who have dedicated their entire lives to accumulating that invaluable knowledge and experience. I see myself as the curious homeowner, learning alongside the viewers.

I hold an immense amount of respect for the talented guys I work with every day, and my sincere hope is that this deep respect translates clearly to our viewers. Despite the genuine friendship and closeness we’ve developed over the years, I consistently remind myself, and implicitly convey to the audience, that they are the true professionals, the undisputed experts in their fields. My goal is to extract as many valuable lessons and practical insights from them as possible and then, crucially, to get out of their way, allowing their mastery to shine through. This approach, I believe, fosters a more authentic learning experience for everyone watching.

C&H: Kevin’s Personal Victorian Fixer-Upper Journey

C&H: How is your own Victorian fixer-upper coming along? Is it nearing completion?

Kevin: It’s progressing, albeit slowly! But yes, we are definitely getting there. My wife and I have been immersed in this personal renovation project for five years now, and we’re just a few months away from completing “Phase One,” which encompasses most of the essential and necessary improvements. It’s been a monumental undertaking, touching nearly every aspect of the house.

To give you an idea of the scope, we’ve completely redone the kitchen, transformed two bathrooms, and converted an unfinished attic space into three new bedrooms and an additional bath. We’ve meticulously rebuilt the porch, created a dedicated office space, designed a playroom for our son, and added a much-needed laundry room. Beyond these structural and functional changes, we’ve replaced the entire heating system, updated most of the electrical wiring and plumbing, and repaired or replaced a significant amount of old, cracked plaster. We also diligently reconditioned all the original windows, tackled extensive landscaping, and, with a deep sigh of relief, spent a considerable sum – twenty thousand dollars – to have the entire exterior professionally painted. I’m practically getting hives just listing it all out!

Despite the enormity of the task, it has been, and continues to be, an incredibly rich learning experience, profoundly rewarding in countless ways. This hands-on involvement with my own home renovation directly informs my performance on This Old House, making me a more empathetic and effective interviewer. It grants me a much deeper appreciation and respect for the genuine craftsmanship and sheer effort that we showcase on the show every week. I truly understand the triumphs and tribulations of the homeowners we feature.

Yet, it’s also important to acknowledge that it has been, and continues to be, hard and often frustrating. There have been countless weekends where I’ve been tempted to just reach for my checkbook, wishing I could simply pay someone to finish it so I could spend quality time playing with my three-year-old son or enjoying an evening with my wife without the constant discussions about house projects. But I am absolutely committed to seeing it through to completion. Hopefully, that day will arrive very soon!

C&H: Beyond Home Improvement: Kevin O’Connor’s Diverse Interests

C&H: What are some of your interests and passions outside of the realm of home improvement?

Kevin: Would you believe finance? It might sound strange given my current career, but I genuinely love it and find myself missing it sometimes. Before joining This Old House, I was a corporate banker, and I truly enjoyed working with clients, helping them structure their capital, and putting together complex deals. I was, and still am, a “deal junky.” I still make it a point to read the Wall Street Journal every single day; for me, it’s almost like looking at the sports page – full of intriguing strategies and outcomes. Okay, I admit, that might sound a little weird!

Beyond that, I’m an avid golfer and try to play as often as my schedule allows, which, unfortunately, isn’t nearly enough. My family is also incredibly important to me. I absolutely love being at the beach with my immediate and extended family. We’re definitely a “beach clan,” and any activity that involves the scent of salt air is perfectly fine by me. There’s something incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating about the coast.

And then there’s travel. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit about twenty countries in my lifetime, and my ambition is to explore another twenty. While it’s certainly challenging with a young child at home right now, I’m confident that eventually, we’ll get back on the road and discover more of the world. Russia and China are currently high on my travel bucket list; their rich history and unique cultures fascinate me.

C&H: Kevin’s Essential DIY Tip for Every Homeowner

C&H: Can you share your single most important DIY tip, something you learned either before or during your extensive time with This Old House?

Kevin: My most crucial DIY tip, one that I’ve learned time and time again, applies universally to almost any home improvement project you might undertake: It will take longer and cost more than you think. And just to reiterate that point because it’s so vital: It will cost more and take longer than you think. How else can I possibly emphasize it enough?

Remember this simple truth, adjust your expectations accordingly, build in buffer time and budget, and you’ll navigate your projects with far less stress and much greater success. Realistic expectations are truly your best friend in the world of DIY.

C&H: Well said, Kevin. Thank you for your time and insights.

This spring, viewers can tune in to watch Kevin O’Connor and the dedicated crew of This Old House as they embark on another challenging and inspiring project: rebuilding an 1892 New Orleans home belonging to a fourth-generation Lower Ninth Ward resident, a home significantly damaged by Hurricane Katrina. It’s a testament to resilience, history, and the enduring spirit of community.

Photos courtesy of Kevin O’Connor, This Old House, and Tracey Powell.