Rebuilding the Past
Darlow Smithson Productions (DSP) has been commissioned by Mark Bell, Commissioning Editor of Arts on behalf of controller of BBC TWO Janice Hadlow, to produce Rebuilding the Past (w/t). The 6x60’ architecture series, presented by Dan Cruickshank and Charlie Luxton, brings back to life, brick by brick, some of Britain’s most historic buildings.
Each building tells a unique story, presenting Dan and Charlie with a fascinating detective mission and the chance to uncover the history of the people who designed and adapted them. This is the story of ordinary people’s architecture – and this series is also about the history of British people, told through the buildings that were part of their lives.
Every year, dozens of historic buildings are snatched from the jaws of bulldozers. Rescued by museums, conservation organisations and local enthusiasts, they are painstakingly taken apart and stored away.
In each episode, Rebuilding the Past will follow a new team of local experts as they attempt to bring one of these structures back to life – without the help of an instruction book. The teams will face puzzles and crucial decisions at every step, from choosing the right approach, to layout and building materials. They must work out the history of vernacular architecture from the ground up, interpreting clues as they go and re-learning long lost techniques. The extraordinary buildings featured will include an Edwardian coal-fired fish and chip shop in the North East and a Victorian pre-fab mission church.
Tom Brisley, Creative Director, Darlow Smithson Productions, said:
“Hidden inside the framework of these buildings are fascinating secrets from our past. They provide us with a unique social history, not only of the people who designed, lived and worked within them, but also the regions in which they were built. We are incredibly excited to be working with the BBC Two arts team again – the series has great potential for return and we hope this will be the start of a lasting relationship.”
Mark Bell, Commissioning Editor, BBC Arts added: "This series is a fantastic opportunity for viewers to experience Britain's extraordinary heritage of vernacular architecture from the inside."
Rebuilding the Past (w/t) is a Darlow Smithson Production, commissioned by Mark Bell for BBC TWO. It will be Series Produced by Caroline Ross Perie and Executive Produced by Julian Ware and Tom Brisley for DSP.
International sales will be handled by Endemol Worldwide Distribution.