Home improvement shows have gained massive popularity in the UK, offering homeowners and DIY enthusiasts inspiration, practical tips, and entertainment. Whether you’re interested in full renovations, interior design makeovers, or DIY projects, there’s a wealth of content available. But how do you access these shows? With streaming services becoming increasingly popular, you can now watch home improvement shows at your convenience, without being tied to a TV schedule. In this post, we’ll explore the top home improvement streaming options in the UK, helping you find the best channels, apps, and websites to bring your renovation dreams to life.
1. Why Home Improvement Shows Are So Popular in the UK
Home improvement shows have long been a staple of UK television, but their popularity has surged thanks to the rise of streaming platforms. Shows like Grand Designs, DIY SOS, and Homes Under the Hammer have captivated audiences by showcasing real-life home transformations. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or want to learn DIY skills, these shows provide expert advice, creative ideas, and a behind-the-scenes look at some incredible renovations.
With many people spending more time at home, the demand for home improvement content has only increased. The flexibility of streaming services allows viewers to access a vast library of home-related shows whenever they want, giving them more control over their viewing experience.
2. Best Streaming Platforms for Home Improvement Shows in the UK
If you’re in the UK and looking for home improvement content, there are several streaming platforms where you can find the latest renovation, decor, and DIY series. Here are the best ones to check out:
Netflix
Netflix offers a wide range of home improvement and design shows, including the hugely popular Queer Eye, which features home makeovers as part of its broader themes. Additionally, The Home Edit shows how the professionals organize and improve homes. Netflix also has a growing list of international renovation shows that bring new ideas from around the world.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is a strong contender for home improvement content. It offers a mix of British and American shows such as Fixer Upper, Grand Designs, and Amazing Interiors. Plus, with a subscription to Amazon Prime, you get access to other content that can spark your creativity, from cooking to gardening. Many shows are available as part of the subscription, while others are available to rent or purchase.
Discovery+
For dedicated home improvement fans, Discovery+ is an excellent option. It hosts a variety of shows from well-known channels like HGTV and DIY Network. Popular programs like Property Brothers, House Hunters, and Building Off the Grid are available, as well as British favorites such as Grand Designs. Discovery+ offers both live TV and on-demand content, making it an essential service for home improvement lovers.
YouTube
While not a traditional streaming platform, YouTube offers countless DIY tutorials, renovation series, and home design channels. It’s free to access, and many YouTubers share detailed projects on everything from bathroom makeovers to garden transformations. Channels like Home Renovision DIY, DIY Creators, and This Old House are great places to start for practical and detailed home improvement advice.
Sky TV
For UK residents with a Sky TV subscription, Sky offers several channels and on-demand options that feature home improvement content. Channels like Sky Home and HGTV UK (available as part of Sky’s TV bundle) regularly feature renovation and design shows, including favorites like Homes Under the Hammer. With a Sky TV subscription, you also get access to Sky Go, allowing you to stream shows on your devices.
3. Popular Home Improvement Shows to Stream in the UK
Now that you know where to stream home improvement content, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular and engaging home improvement shows available in the UK.
Grand Designs
One of the UK’s most beloved home improvement series, Grand Designs, follows people who embark on ambitious property projects, ranging from self-build homes to complex renovations. The show offers an in-depth look at the challenges and rewards of transforming a property, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in design and architecture.
DIY SOS
This heartwarming show focuses on helping families and individuals who need assistance with major home improvements. DIY SOS brings together a team of tradespeople to tackle large-scale renovations for people in need. The emotional transformations are both inspiring and motivational.
Homes Under the Hammer
If you’re a fan of property auctions and renovation, Homes Under the Hammer is a great show to stream. It follows people who buy homes at auction and renovate them to increase their value. The show provides valuable insights into the renovation process and the property market, making it both entertaining and educational.
The Great Interior Design Challenge
For fans of design, The Great Interior Design Challenge brings a competition element to home improvement. Amateur interior designers are tasked with transforming spaces, and the show provides a lot of inspiration for anyone looking to update their own home.
House Hunters
This American show is widely loved in the UK, and it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys looking at homes and seeing what’s available in different areas. It follows individuals or families as they tour homes for sale and weigh the pros and cons of each one.
4. How to Make the Most of Home Improvement Streaming Content
To make the most of your home improvement streaming experience, here are a few tips:
- Follow Along with DIY Projects: Many home improvement shows offer detailed tutorials or step-by-step guides. You can use these shows as inspiration to tackle your own DIY projects.
- Create a Viewing Schedule: With so many platforms offering home improvement content, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Create a weekly schedule to ensure you’re watching the most relevant shows for your needs.
- Engage with Online Communities: Many streaming services, especially YouTube, have communities of DIY enthusiasts who share tips, projects, and inspiration. Join these communities to learn and share your own experiences.
- Keep Notes for Future Projects: Whether it’s a design concept you love or a DIY tip you want to try, keep track of your favorite moments from home improvement shows. Create a vision board or folder for easy access later.
5. Is It Worth Paying for Multiple Streaming Platforms?
If you’re serious about home improvement, subscribing to multiple streaming services may be worth the investment. Each platform offers a different selection of shows, and some of the more specialized services, such as Discovery+, focus solely on home improvement. However, if you’re just starting out, you can always take advantage of free trials and explore the platforms to see which one offers the best content for your needs.
Conclusion
Streaming home improvement content in the UK provides an excellent way to gain inspiration, learn new skills, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in design and renovation. With a variety of platforms offering on-demand and live content, there’s something for every type of viewer, from the casual decorator to the serious DIY enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to overhaul your home or simply gain a fresh perspective, home improvement streaming has everything you need to make your dream space a reality.
FAQs
1. Can I watch home improvement shows for free in the UK?
Yes, there are several ways to watch home improvement content for free in the UK. Platforms like YouTube offer countless DIY tutorials and renovation videos. Some streaming services also provide free trials, allowing you to watch for a limited time without a subscription.
2. What is the best streaming platform for home improvement shows in the UK?
The best streaming platform depends on your preferences. Discovery+ offers a comprehensive selection of home improvement shows, while Amazon Prime Video and Netflix also offer high-quality content. If you’re a fan of live TV, Sky TV may be your best bet.
3. Can I watch live home improvement shows in the UK?
Yes, some platforms, like Sky TV and Discovery+, offer live TV options where you can watch home improvement shows as they air. Many shows also provide on-demand streaming, so you can watch them at your convenience.
4. Are there any UK-specific home improvement shows to watch?
Yes, UK-specific shows like Grand Designs, Homes Under the Hammer, and DIY SOS are available to stream and are highly popular among UK audiences. These shows offer a unique perspective on home renovation and real estate in the UK.
5. Can I follow along with home improvement projects on streaming platforms?
Absolutely! Many streaming services, especially YouTube, feature detailed tutorials and step-by-step guides for home improvement projects. Shows like DIY SOS and Grand Designs provide inspiration, while platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix feature series with helpful DIY tips.