What Happened to Roger the Landscaper on This Old House: A Journey Through Roger Cook's Departure from This Old House

Roger Cook, widely known as the expert landscaper on the popular PBS television show "This Old House," was a beloved fixture for many years. He joined the show in the late 1980s, bringing not only professional landscaping knowledge but also a friendly, approachable presence that resonated with viewers. Over decades, Roger transformed countless yards and outdoor spaces, educating homeowners on sustainable gardening, hardscaping, tree care, and much more.

However, starting around 2018, viewers noticed Roger's on-screen appearances became less frequent. He often appeared visibly unwell or less active during projects. In January 2020, Roger announced his official departure from "This Old House" due to health concerns. He shared that ongoing health issues made it challenging to keep up with the physical demands of the job and the show's rigorous filming schedule. While the show respected his privacy and never disclosed specific details about his illness, fans have continually expressed their well wishes for his recovery and gratitude for the years of landscaping wisdom he provided.

As a designer, I often reflect on Roger Cook’s integrated approach to outdoor spaces—how he emphasized the harmony between plants, terrain, and built structures. For anyone inspired by his work and aiming to plan a cohesive landscape or visualize changes before implementation, leveraging a AI Interior Design platform can offer similar design insights. These tools empower both professionals and DIYers to create harmonious, functional outdoor spaces.

Tips 1:

If you want to maximize your landscape’s potential à la Roger’s philosophy, remember to prioritize native plants, efficient irrigation, and thoughtful placement of hardscaping elements. Digital visualization can help you confidently experiment with layouts before tackling the heavy lifting outdoors.

FAQ

Q: Why did Roger Cook leave "This Old House"?

A: Roger departed due to ongoing health concerns that made filming and landscaping work increasingly difficult.

Q: Who replaced Roger Cook on "This Old House"?

A: Jenn Nawada, a landscape designer who had often appeared alongside Roger, took on a more prominent role after his departure.

Q: What was Roger Cook’s role on "This Old House"?

A: Roger was the show’s lead landscaper and outdoor expert, guiding viewers through landscape transformations and outdoor problem-solving.

Q: Is Roger Cook still involved with landscaping today?

A: Roger retired from his regular television appearances and has focused on his health in recent years; there have been no public updates regarding new landscaping projects.

Q: Can I use home design software to plan my landscape like Roger Cook does?

A: Absolutely. Modern design tools, especially those using AI, allow you to visualize and plan entire landscapes, making it easier to achieve professional-level results inspired by experts like Roger Cook.