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“Breaking New Ground”
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HOST
Robert Hartwell
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Robert Hartwell
PRODUCTION
OWN, HGTV, Scott Brothers Entertainment
Robert doesn’t just host the show—he led every aspect of its creation, from concept development and casting to design and final cut, making him the first Black gay man to star in and executive produce a home renovation series.
Season 1, Episode 1
Paulette's Parlour
New to Great Barrington, MA, Robert meets his team to begin renovation on his 4000-square-foot, 200-year-old home. On a mission to protect and salvage as much of the home’s original details as possible, Robert must make some hard decisions. Robert, a single man juggling the challenges of new home ownership and his business finds a way to bring his family legacy with him on the journey. The parlor becomes the first room to receive a special dedication.
Season 1, Episode 2
Kitchen + Dining Room
Robert is slowly becoming a member of the Great Barrington, MA community. However, before he finally rests his head, he must fix himself a plate. The construction of the kitchen and the dining room turn out to be one of the biggest financial challenges for Robert to date. Robert must find a way to balance the books while making a million decisions. This space, with a troubling legacy, receives new life and a new story.
Season 1, Episode 3
Primary Suite
Robert has visions of a primary suite where he can rest, dream, and reflect. After a tumultuous 2020, this unconventional sanctuary will be more than just a place to sleep. Robert is on a mission to understand where he comes from, who came before him, and how he became the person he is. A deep dive into family and history lays the foundation for this special space with a surprise guest reveal.
Season 1, Episode 4
Living Room, Study, and Exterior
The grand exterior columns that drew Robert to this house, lead us into the family room and study. Robert is juggling his time between Great Barrington, MA, and NYC, trying to keep up with creative and construction challenges. To stay focused, Robert leans on his best friends and takes time to learn a bit more about his new home and community. The exterior facade, family room, and study shine in their new beginnings, with love at the core.
Season 1, Episode 5
Darius's Dance Studio
Who wants a dance studio in their home? Robert does! As Great Barrington, MA, is starting to feel like home, Robert continues to push his team into new and uncharted waters. The dream is to build a beautiful dance studio using original details and flooring to make this one-of-a-kind space fly. Robert is also manifesting a room for a future family, with the belief if it’s built, they will come. Faced with financial, personal, and construction challenges, this space pushes Robert to reflect on his original intention, to fill this house with joy.
Season 1, Episode 6
Mom's Suite + Finale
Roberts’s mother, Elizabeth, has been along for the entire journey to this house, so naturally, a room for her is a must. On a mission to finish his house, Robert works around the clock to make sure this special room is fit for a queen. Elizabeth has no idea what Robert has in store for her. Family, history, loss, and perseverance brought Robert to this house. Great Barrington, MA, is closer to being home, and the culmination of love and joy is revealed.
