Well, mine is working again.  Emma, after your mentioning fireplaces/stairs again, I decided to go through and delete all CC versions from my downloads.  Since I don't know a lot about editing script things, it is probable that I did not properly change things back.  While I was at it, I got rid of a few other object downloads that I will never use and a mod or two.  One of those things was the culprit, but I do not know which one caused the problem.  It's strange, too, since I had already attempted opening BV after removing everything from the downloads folder. 

Anyway, thanks for all the help.  CountessAmy, I hope yours turns out as easy.

I forgot to mention that crucial bit, so thanks!  Yes, I had changed a couple of catalog scripts related to fireplaces. I read your advice about this in another thread and changed them back.  No effect. 

Also, I've checked out the forums on the NVIDIA/EA clash.  While there are a lot of problems, they don't seem to be quite the same as the one that CountessAmy and I are experiencing.  I'm also confused as to why, after running fine for a while, BV would suddenly develop problems.

All right.  I really didn't want to jump in, but I have a very similar problem.  My game also freezes during load at "Faceting Precious Gems". 

I have been running all of the EPs and all but the last two stuff packs (H&M and Teen Style) just fine for about a month.  Two days ago, it just stopped loading.  I have many downloads, but I have tried removing them with no result.  I have also tried: deleting groups.cache, running HCDU, restarting my computer, virus/spyware scans, and various other ineffectual desperation moves, all to no avail.

It's not just a Vista problem, since I am running XP Media Center (on a duo core Intel with 2G RAM).  I suppose it could be related to the NVIDIA GeForce 7300 LE, since I am also using that (with freshly checked drivers).  I have not done anything unusual or played other games since the last time I successfully loaded/played BV, so I doubt there is interference from that arena.

CountessAmy, I'm selfishly glad it's not just me...  Thanks for any advice. 

I am having the same problem with Brickstone Chateau, although my hometown is different.