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Interior design TV shows you might have forgotten about

Mar 05, 2018
Interior design TV shows you might have forgotten about
 
It’s been over twenty years since Changing Rooms first aired and TV interior shows are as popular as ever. As well as being entertaining, they’ve taught us to roll up our sleeves and not be afraid of getting stuck in with some interior design and DIY. Whether you’re looking for some interior design tips or just fancy a few moments reminiscing, take a look at our favourite TV makeover shows from the past.

Changing Rooms (1997 – 2004)

This was a huge hit when it aired from 1997 – 2004  . First presented by Carol Smillie, there were seventeen series in total. The concept was very simple – couples swapped homes and then each decorated a room in each other’s home with the help of a designer. The big reveal often brought tears as some of the designs were outrageous. This show launched the TV careers of Linda Barker, Anna Ryder Richardson, Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen and Andy Kane (Handy Andy). There were American and Australian versions of the show too, as the world went Changing Rooms crazy.
   
 

60 Minute Makeover (2004 -)

Running since 2004 with a few breaks in between, 60 Minute Makeover stepped up the pace from Changing Rooms. Instead of having two days to complete the makeover, a one-hour time limit was imposed and several rooms had to redecorated at the same time. Each makeover is very fast paced and frantic but the design team and their helpers always managed to complete the job. Initially presented by Claire Sweeney there have been several presenters since and the show is now presented by Peter Andre. The recipient of the makeover is nominated by a friend or loved one and only discovers they’ve had a makeover when they arrive back at their home for the reveal.
 

Property Ladder

This was an interior design show aimed at first-time property developers trying to generate a profit from renovating their first property purchase. It aired from 2005 to 2007 and was hosted by property developer Sarah Beeny, who was on hand to offer her expert opinion. It was later renamed Property Snakes & Ladders.
 

The House Doctor

Originally airing from 1998 – 2003, The House Doctor was relaunched in 2016 and is popular worldwide. The original presenters were William Van-Hague, Tris Payne and Alistair Appleton but the American interior designer Ann Maurice is now at the helm. This show presents those trying to sell their homes with video footage of potential buyers giving negative feedback and then encourages them to give their home a makeover to boost their chances of selling. The budget for the makeover is usually 1% of their asking price.
 

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