Architecture & design documentaries

Get inspired by some must-see documentaries on architectural, product and graphic design. From the hidden architecture of Roman Italy to the design used for some of the world's best-known brands, BBC Select looks at the influence of design and architecture throughout history. If you live in the US or Canada, you can watch the best design and architecture documentaries.

Dan Cruickshank's Adventures in Architecture

Dan Cruickshank's Adventures in Architecture

What influence has architecture had on history and culture? And do buildings reflect the personality of a nation? Historian and writer Dan Cruickshank celebrates architecture as a creative force as he explores the world’s greatest cities, buildings and monuments in this compelling documentary series. He travels the globe visiting incredible structures that have left an indelible mark on humanity.

Brunel: Building a Great Britain

Brunel: Building A Great Britain

Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the British civil engineer, is considered one of the most ingenious and prolific figures in engineering history. He was responsible for such astonishing feats as steamship travel across the Atlantic, building the first tunnel under a major river and constructing docks, harbors and bridges. His designs helped Britain to expand and grow as the powerhouse of the world.

A Grand Royal Design

A grand royal design

For over a decade, Prince (now King) Charles oversaw the ambitious restoration of Dumfries House, a rundown 18th century stately home in one of the UK’s most deprived areas. As this intimate documentary shows, his goal was to instill hope and pride into a struggling community. Filmed over ten years, see the Princes’ painstaking journey to renovate a lost building and help those around.

Inside the Tower of London

Inside The Tower of London

The Tower of London has stood at the center of British history for nearly 1000 years. This fascinating history documentary series explores the incredible stories and goes behind closed doors to see what keeps the Tower functioning today. How was the Tower built? Who were the famous people to have walked through its gates? And meet the fascinating figures who keep the Tower running.

Inside Balmoral

Stream Inside Balmoral with BBC Select

Since Queen Victoria first acquired it in 1852, the British royal family have found solace at Balmoral. This enormous private estate in the Scottish Highlands is where monarchs have holidayed, hidden, plotted, and played.

The inside view of this secretive sanctuary reveals some of the extraordinary features found at Balmoral and the tales of intrigue involve the figures who have resided there.