In past projects you've seen them take on a barn conversion, a tiny house, a bachelor pad, a bed-and-breakfast and Joanna's venture into midcentury modern. Now, in their continuing quest for daring renovations, the Gaines agree to yet another outside-the-box project. And this time the box floats. Or, at least, that's the hope.

Simplify, Simplify

Here's the backstory: Chip's long-time friend, Brett Swartz, is a Waco native and is looking to pare down. He has four beautiful kids, a love of the water and a yearning for the lake life. His dream is to live in a houseboat on Lake Waco and to provide a lifestyle for his kids with a focus on nature and the outdoors. "I thought if I took away phones and iPads," he says, “they would turn out normal." Normal, of course, is a relative term, but the home that Joanna and Chip have in mind for Brett and his family is far from ordinary.

A Life Aquatic

The first step is to locate a used and upgradable houseboat. Brett's all-in budget is $85,000 including any repairs and improvements. His hope is that Chip and Joanna can help him modify an existing boat to give it a modern flair, a good flow for family living and some privacy.

Aside from ensuring that the boat is structurally sound and seaworthy (lakeworthy?), Chip and Joanna are faced with working within a tight budget and even tighter spaces. The objective is to fashion a contemporary living space with modern amenities, and create the sense of open spaces within extra limited square footage. Will they be able to christen their latest Fixer Upper?

This episode premieres Tuesday, February 7 at 9p|8c. Check back here for the complete makeover and more Fixer Upper updates.

And Coming Next Week

We've got something special lined up for your Valentine's Day. Spend it with everybody's favorite affectionate couple as a Fixer Upper marathon airs on HGTV anchored by the premiere of the Fixer Upper Bakery special at 9p|8c. Here's something to whet your appetite...