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.

Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors

Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors

One of Great Britain’s most impressive historical buildings is opening its door to allow exclusive, behind the scenes access. Westminster Abbey is the site of royal coronations, and the resting place of monarchs, notable figures from history and famous authors. Founded in 959AD, this important monument to Christianity needs funds and constant renovation work to keep it going.

Brits Who Built the Modern World

Brits Who Built the Modern World

The story of how one generation of British architects, born within five years of each other, changed the world with a bold new approach to architecture. Lords Norman Foster and Richard Rogers and Sirs Nicholas Grimshaw, Terry Farrell and Michael Hopkins are responsible for some of the most iconic buildings of our times, from the Pompidou Centre, Beijing Airport and the HSBC Tower in Hong Kong.

Secrets of Britain's Historic Houses and Gardens

Secrets of Britain's Historic Houses and Gardens

Every year, millions of people flock to the historic homes and gardens looked after by Britain’s National Trust. But out of the sight of the many visitors lies a hidden world. Behind closed doors, dedicated teams work on keeping this priceless heritage alive. This documentary offers a glimpse behind the velvet rope into National Trust properties ranging from the huge to the humble.

Britain's Great Cathedrals: To the Glory of God

Britian's Great Cathedral: To the Glory of God

Reverend Pat Allerton, famously known as the ‘portable priest’, embarks on a personal pilgrimage to unlock the secrets of Britain’s most spectacular cathedrals. Visiting London, Canterbury, Lincoln and elsewhere, he uncovers amazing events witnessed across the centuries, as well as the inspiring stories of how these magnificent religious structures were built and how they are maintained today.

George Clarke's National Trust Unlocked

George Clarke's National Trust Unlocked

Architect and building lover George Clarke goes behind the scenes at the National Trust, the organization that looks after many of Britain’s historic sites. George, plus his pooch Loki, gets exclusive access to some of the UK’s most impressive structures, learns a few secrets about the history of the buildings and meets the dedicated people determined to keep these architectural gems protected.