Jonathan Scott Gives Emotional Makeover to Zooey Deschanel’s Mentor’s 81‑Year‑Old Apartment

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HGTV Star Jonathan scott Surprises Fiancée’s former Teacher With Heartwarming Home Makeover

Los Angeles,CA – January 27,2026 – in a touching display of gratitude and affection,Jonathan Scott,of the celebrated HGTV series,recently completed a full home renovation for Jim Hosney,the high school film instructor and mentor of his fiancée,actress Zooey Deschanel. The project, unveiled Monday, offered a dramatic change of Hosney’s long-held apartment, a space overwhelmed by decades of accumulated belongings.

A Personal Connection Drives the Renovation

Scott, known for his work alongside his brother Drew Scott on shows like “Property Brothers,” initiated the renovation as a personal gesture to honor Hosney’s impactful influence on Deschanel’s life. Hosney, 81, has resided in the same apartment since 1984, and it had gradually become cluttered with books, DVDs, and cherished memorabilia. Scott recognized an prospect to improve Hosney’s quality of life, fostering a more inviting and functional living space.

“He’s 81 years old, he’s in an apartment,” Scott stated in a video documenting the process. “He has books and DVDs and boxes taking over his life.I thought maybe we could do a little bit more.” The timing proved fortuitous, as Hosney coincidentally reached out to Scott expressing a desire to declutter his apartment and create a more welcoming surroundings for friends.

From Cluttered to Cinematic

What are the key benefits of age-in-place renovations for seniors?

Jonathan Scott Gives emotional Makeover to Zooey deschanel’s Mentor’s 81‑Year‑Old Apartment

The power of a home renovation extends far beyond aesthetics. Recently, Property Brothers star Jonathan Scott took on a especially poignant project: transforming the long-held apartment of Gloria Scalzitti, a celebrated music educator and mentor to Zooey Deschanel. Scalzitti, 81, had lived in the same Los Angeles apartment for over three decades, but time and a limited budget had taken thier toll. The makeover, a collaboration with First American Home Builders and revealed on January 26th, 2026, wasn’t just about updating a space; it was about honoring a life dedicated to the arts and providing a renewed sense of comfort and joy.

A Legacy in Music Education

Gloria Scalzitti’s impact on the Los Angeles music scene is critically important. For years, she fostered a love of music in countless students, including a young Zooey Deschanel. Deschanel, deeply grateful for Scalzitti’s guidance, reached out to Jonathan Scott and Property Brothers hoping to give back to the woman who profoundly influenced her life. The apartment, while filled with cherished memories, had become increasingly challenging for Scalzitti to maintain.

The Challenges of an Aging Apartment

The renovation faced several common challenges found in older apartments. These included:

* Outdated Layout: The original 1960s floor plan felt cramped and didn’t maximize the available space.

* Accessibility Concerns: as Scalzitti aged,navigating the apartment became more difficult,requiring modifications for safety and ease of movement.

* Worn Finishes: Decades of use had left the apartment with faded paint, worn flooring, and outdated fixtures.

* Limited Natural Light: The apartment suffered from a lack of natural light, creating a dim and somewhat depressing atmosphere.

Jonathan Scott’s Approach: Prioritizing Comfort and Functionality

Scott’s design beliefs centered around creating a space that was both lovely and functional for Scalzitti’s needs. The renovation wasn’t about trendy design choices; it was about enhancing her quality of life. Key elements of the transformation included:

* Open concept Living: Removing non-load-bearing walls opened up the living and dining areas, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere.

* Accessible Kitchen: The kitchen received a complete overhaul with lowered countertops,pull-out shelving,and easy-to-reach appliances. This ensured Scalzitti could continue to enjoy cooking, a lifelong passion.

* Bathroom Renovation: The bathroom was redesigned with a walk-in shower, grab bars, and a comfort-height toilet, prioritizing safety and accessibility.

* Enhanced Lighting: New lighting fixtures and strategically placed lamps brightened the apartment, creating a warmer and more welcoming ambiance.

* Neutral Color Palette: A calming neutral color palette was used throughout the apartment, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. Accents of Scalzitti’s favorite colors were incorporated through artwork and accessories.

The Emotional Impact of the Reveal

The reveal of the renovated apartment was a deeply emotional moment. Scalzitti was visibly moved by the thoughtfulness and care that went into the project. Deschanel, present for the reveal, shared stories of her time with Scalzitti, highlighting the educator’s unwavering dedication to her students. The renovation wasn’t just a physical transformation; it was a testament to the enduring power of mentorship and the importance of giving back.

Benefits of Age-in-Place Renovations

Scalzitti’s apartment makeover exemplifies the growing trend of “age-in-place” renovations. These modifications allow individuals to remain in their homes comfortably and safely as they age. Benefits include:

* increased Independence: Modifications like accessible bathrooms and kitchens empower seniors to maintain their independence.

* Improved Safety: Reducing fall risks and creating a more navigable space enhances safety.

* Enhanced Quality of Life: A comfortable and functional home habitat promotes well-being and reduces stress.

* Potential Cost Savings: Remaining in one’s home can be more cost-effective than moving to assisted living facilities.

Practical Tips for Adapting Your home

Inspired by Scalzitti’s transformation? Here are some practical tips for adapting your own home for aging in place:

1. Assess Your Needs: Identify areas where modifications would be most beneficial.
2. Prioritize Accessibility: Focus on features like wider doorways, ramps, and grab bars.
3. Improve Lighting: ensure adequate lighting throughout the home.
4. Declutter and Organize: Remove tripping hazards and create clear pathways.
5. Consider Universal Design Principles: Incorporate features that are usable by people of all ages and abilities.

The Role of Celebrity Involvement in Community Projects

The involvement of celebrities like Jonathan Scott and Zooey Deschanel in community projects raises awareness and inspires others to give back.Their platform amplifies the impact of these initiatives, demonstrating the power of using resources to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This particular renovation serves as a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound and lasting impact.