Catch Kris "I love FISE" Bennett on TV: HGTV to Launch “Steel City Rehab” Pilot on April 30

Apr 27, 2017

Written by Bart de Jong

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HGTV will premiere the pilot episode of Pittsburgh-based reality show“Steel City Rehab” this Sunday, April 30 at 12:00 p.m. EST. The hourlong program details a residential renovation project headed by husband-wife duo and local real estate professionals Kris and Tara Bennett, who own K Bennett Development Group and its sister company, boutique brokerage Lifespace Pittsburgh. “This has been such a cool experience for all of us,” says Tara. “Pittsburgh is an awesome city, and we’re excited to see it getting the attention it deserves.”

Throughout the episode, the Bennetts work to acquire, restore, and ultimately sell a home in

Pittsburgh’s East End. They enlist the help of colleagues and long-time friends Cameron Nicols, project manager, and Jesse Wig, real estate agent. Former pro BMX rider Kris, who began rehabbing houses in 2008, attributes the cast’s natural chemistry to their collective hometown of Titusville, Pa., just south of Erie. “It's great to be working withgood friends from home,” he says. “There’s a certain familiarity and mutual respect between us that reallycreates a comfortable and fun work environment.”

As a nod to Pittsburgh’s diverse, interconnected community of builders, architects, and designers, the“Steel City Rehab” pilot features the hands-on work of two local professionals: former Pittsburgh Steelerand woodworking expert John Malecki, who works with Tara to create custom-made furniture for the home; and Abode Pittsburgh founder and creative director Heather Visnesky, whose team is credited with staging and styling the finished property. Since announcing the episode’s debut via social media, the Bennetts have received an outpouring of regional support. Says Kris, “We’re so grateful for all of the positive feedback. Pittsburgh has such a tight-knit, small-town vibe, and it’s heartening to know that we have the support of the community.”