Finished This Old House? Here Are 10 Shows You Must Watch Next
You’ve watched every season of This Old House. You’ve followed the crews as they’ve breathed new life into historic homes, and you’ve picked up countless tips along the way. But now you’re facing a common problem: what on earth do you watch next?
Finding a show that captures that same magic blend of authentic craftsmanship, respect for history, and practical, real-world renovation can feel impossible. Many modern home improvement shows favor drama and quick flips over the methodical, educational approach that makes This Old House a classic. You’re looking for substance, not just staged reveals.
This guide is your solution. We’ve curated the ultimate list of shows that fill the void left by your favorite program, catering to every type of home enthusiast. Whether you crave the nitty-gritty of construction, the beauty of historic preservation, or simply the satisfaction of a job well done, your new favorite show is right here.
You'll Learn About
For the Lover of Pure Craftsmanship and History
If your favorite part of This Old House is watching masters at work, respecting the bones of an old home, then these shows will feel like coming home. They prioritize skill, authenticity, and the stories embedded in the structures they restore.
1. The Repair Shop
While not a home renovation show in the traditional sense, BBC’s The Repair Shop captures the same spirit of preservation and masterful craftsmanship. People bring in cherished family heirlooms—from antique furniture to broken clocks—and a team of expert craftspeople meticulously restores them. It’s a quiet, deeply satisfying show that celebrates the history of objects and the art of making things whole again.
What makes it a great follow-up is its focus on the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of restoration. You’ll witness incredible skill and learn about the techniques used to preserve precious items, much like the crew of This Old House preserves architectural details.
2. Rehab Addict
Nicole Curtis is a passionate advocate for saving old homes from the wrecking ball. Her show, Rehab Addict, is a masterclass in historic preservation. She focuses on restoring houses—often from the Victorian and early 20th-century eras—to their original glory, tackling everything from foundation issues to intricate woodwork.
This show is perfect for viewers who appreciate the architectural details of older properties. Before starting any project, understanding the materials you’re working with is crucial; for instance, identifying potential hazards in older homes is a key first step. Homeowners often wonder, does horsehair plaster contain asbestos? Curtis often works with original materials like plaster and wood, making her projects both a history lesson and a renovation guide.
3. The Craftsman
Master woodworker Eric Hollenbeck takes viewers on a journey to restore historic homes and forgotten treasures in his hometown of Eureka, California. The Craftsman is a deep dive into the art of woodworking and restoration. Hollenbeck’s dedication to preserving history and his intricate work on everything from trolley cars to historic doors is truly inspiring.
The show emphasizes passing down traditional skills to the next generation, a core value that resonates with the ethos of This Old House. It’s a thoughtful and beautifully shot series for anyone who appreciates true artistry.
For the Practical DIYer and Problem-Solver
If you watch home improvement shows for actionable advice and to see complex problems solved correctly, these selections are for you. They focus on education, proper techniques, and fixing the mistakes that others have made.
4. Holmes on Homes
Mike Holmes has built a reputation on making it right. In Holmes on Homes, he and his crew rescue homeowners from botched renovations and shoddy contractor work. The show is incredibly educational, as Mike meticulously explains what went wrong, why it’s a problem, and how to fix it correctly according to building codes.
This is a must-watch for anyone planning a renovation. It highlights the importance of doing things right the first time and the potential dangers of cutting corners. For example, some homeowners may think about removing a wall without a permit, but Holmes’ show demonstrates the severe structural and safety consequences that can arise from such decisions.
5. Ask This Old House
This is the most natural next step for any fan. The spin-off series, Ask This Old House, tackles smaller, more accessible home improvement projects submitted by viewers. The familiar faces—Tom Silva, Richard Trethewey, Jenn Nawada, and others—travel the country to help homeowners with everything from installing a ceiling fan to fixing a leaky faucet.
It’s the perfect show for building your own DIY skills and confidence. The projects are broken down into clear, manageable steps, making it an invaluable resource for homeowners.
For Those Who Love a Good Transformation Story
Sometimes, the most satisfying part of a renovation show is the dramatic before-and-after. These shows excel at delivering stunning transformations while still honoring the character and soul of the homes they work on.
6. Good Bones
Mother-daughter duo Mina Starsiak Hawk and Karen E. Laine specialize in revitalizing their hometown of Indianapolis, one dilapidated house at a time. They have a knack for seeing the potential in seemingly hopeless properties, often taking them down to the studs and rebuilding them into beautiful, functional homes. They’re not afraid of big projects, and their fun, family-oriented dynamic makes the show a joy to watch.
Before tackling major renovations like those on Good Bones, it’s vital to know your home’s capabilities. Understanding your electrical system is a non-negotiable part of this, and many older homes have systems that might need an upgrade. It is important to know what 150 amp service means for your home to ensure it can handle modern demands safely.
7. Home Town
Ben and Erin Napier have won hearts with their mission to revitalize their small town of Laurel, Mississippi. In Home Town, they help newcomers find and renovate houses, creating personalized spaces that reflect the owners’ stories. Ben is a skilled woodworker who creates custom pieces for each home, while Erin is a designer with a talent for creating warm, inviting interiors.
The show has a strong focus on community and preserving the historic charm of their town. It’s a feel-good show that combines beautiful design with genuine heart.
8. Fixer Upper
No list of renovation shows would be complete without mentioning Chip and Joanna Gaines. Fixer Upper became a cultural phenomenon for a reason. The duo transformed dated houses in Waco, Texas, into stunning modern farmhouses. While the style is distinct, the show’s appeal lies in the dramatic transformations and the wholesome chemistry between the hosts.
It’s a great choice if you enjoy seeing a complete design vision come to life and want inspiration for creating a cohesive, stylish home.
For a Global Perspective on Design and Building
If you’re curious about architecture and home building beyond the traditional American landscape, these shows offer a fascinating look at ambitious and often unconventional projects from around the world.
9. Grand Designs
For over two decades, host Kevin McCloud has followed some of the most ambitious and architecturally unique home-building projects in the United Kingdom. Each episode of Grand Designs chronicles a single project from conception to completion, often spanning months or even years. The show doesn’t shy away from the immense stress, budget blowouts, and construction challenges that come with creating one-of-a-kind homes.
This series is less of a “how-to” and more of a “what’s possible.” It’s a captivating look at the passion and perseverance required to build a truly extraordinary home.
10. Restoration Home
Hosted by architect Caroline Quentin, this British series follows families who have purchased and are restoring massive, historically significant, and often derelict properties. As the restoration work unfolds, the show delves into the deep history of the buildings, uncovering stories of the people who lived there centuries ago. It’s a perfect blend of a renovation show and a historical documentary, appealing to anyone who loves the stories old houses can tell.
Your Next Binge-Watch Awaits
Finding shows like This Old House is about identifying what you loved most about it. Was it the craftsmanship, the problem-solving, or the beautiful transformations? This curated list provides a starting point to find your next favorite series that will inspire, educate, and entertain.
The table below offers a quick comparison to help you decide where to start your viewing journey.
Show Title | Key Focus | Best For… |
---|---|---|
The Repair Shop | Artisanal Craftsmanship & Restoration | Viewers who love detailed preservation work. |
Rehab Addict | Historic Preservation | Fans of architectural history and authenticity. |
The Craftsman | Master Woodworking & Heritage Skills | Those who appreciate the art of building. |
Holmes on Homes | Correcting Bad Renovations & Building Codes | Homeowners planning a project who want to learn what not to do. |
Ask This Old House | DIY Projects & Practical Advice | Aspiring DIYers looking for actionable tips. |
Good Bones | Full-Gut Renovations & Modern Design | Viewers who love dramatic transformations. |
Home Town | Personalized Design & Small-Town Charm | Those who enjoy heartwarming stories and custom details. |
Fixer Upper | Signature Farmhouse Style & Design | Anyone looking for modern design inspiration. |
Grand Designs | Ambitious Architecture & Construction | Dreamers who love unique and challenging builds. |
Restoration Home | Historic Buildings & Rich Storytelling | History buffs who love a good renovation narrative. |
So, grab your remote and get ready to be inspired. Your next favorite home improvement obsession is just a click away.