Western North Carolina buzzes with celebration as five families finally return to their rebuilt homes, a year after the devastating Hurricane Helene. Kevin O’Connor revisits Swannanoa, catching up with homeowners Allie and Jim to tour their new home and reflect on their incredible journey of recovery.
Outside, Zack Dettmore connects with builder Chris Cronin, who expresses profound gratitude for the countless individuals, from local community members to volunteers nationwide, who rallied together to help Allie, Jim, Miah, Cat, Jeremy, and other residents reclaim their lives and homes.
Later, Kevin heads just down the street to Miah’s house, seeing her fully settled in. As a fourth-generation resident, Miah shares her joy at being back, feeling a vital piece of her family history restored.
Meanwhile, Mark McCullough tours Cat and Jeremy’s home, exploring their new layout and checking in on how they feel being moved in.
Over in North Asheville, Jenn Nawada meets with Melinda, who recounts her family’s harrowing experience during the storm and their remarkable resilience. With their front yard now clear of trees, they’ve embraced the opportunity to plant an array of flora along their new boulder wall.
Inside, Matt shows Zack the dramatic interior transformation. The removal of a wall between the living room and kitchen has created an open, inviting space, complete with a new counter which creates a perfect spot for their family to gather.
Finally, Richard Trethewey ventures to East Asheville to meet Paula, who offers a tour of her renovated home, detailing her thoughtful choices in both modernizing and preserving its original charm. Finally, everyone joins together at a local brewery to celebrate.
Original Air Date: Jan 15, 2026, Season 47; Ep. 11 23:42
Products and Resources
- Contractors and services:
Balsam Built
Ward Enterprises
Old North State Building Company
Making Whole - Tile and grout:
Daltile
Schluter - Electrical: Concept Lighting and Electric
- Bathrooms: Ferguson
- Bathroom design: Kohler
- Flooring:
Engineered Floors
Huber Engineered Woods - Roofing: GAF
- Landscaping:
Barefoot Designs
Jesse Israel & Sons
B.B. Barns
Costa Farms - Side trip: Highland Brewing
- Location: Explore Asheville
