Behind Closed Doors product reviews

These architectural shows are one of the family favourites. My wife tends to prefer the make-over shows whereas I tend to prefer the construction/architecture type shows and am not too concerned or, to be honest, that interested in the interior design frippery. To be given this show to review was more pleasure than chore. I knew from the opening few moments of the show I would enjoy this.

The show started with a bunker, designed to be Churchill's war office should Westminster ever be bombed hidden in the middle of a modern housing estate. I was hooked....

Manchester Town Hall, Portcullis House, Container City, London Town Hall (and those are the ones that jump immediately to mind)... a glimpse behind the scenes of some of the UK's most fascinating buildings, some of the history of the buildings, some trivia, design techniques and so on.

There is always a danger with this type of show, written and presented by an architect, that one could be talked down to in a condescending manner, or it could be too much jargon that one is left bewildered and the show somewhat incomprehensible. There is none of that. The presenter is enthusiastic, articulate and passionate. His infectious nature shines through and almost draws you into the show.

There are too many shows to enjoy in one sitting, but this makes you want to sit down and inwardly digest before moving onto the next one. I enjoyed being able to view the landmark buildings in the UK from the comfort of my own chair (in little old NZ).

If you love the architectural and home make-over shows that are currently 'en vogue' you are sure to enjoy this one. I was hooked, my wife enjoyed it too (though she didn't see as many of them as I did). It's worth every penny especially for a 2 DVD set.