BBC’s New Series Will Show You What It’s Like to Renovate Those $1 Italian Homes

published Jun 1, 2022
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
Credit: stanga/Shutterstock.com

Ever considered buying one of those Italian countryside houses that are selling for only $1? Don’t pack your bags for Europe just yet. A new BBC series will first show you what to expect before you spend that hard-earned dollar.

In the eight-part series, “The Italian Job“, hosts Alan Carr and Amanda Holden will purchase a ‘One Euro’ home in rural Sicily and embark on the task of renovating the neglected structure. Similar to others who have moved into the area, they’ll do most of the work themselves — from plumbing to painting and plastering — with local tradespeople occasionally coming in to help. At the end of summer, the finished property will go on sale, with all profits to be donated to charity.

“Alan and I came up with the idea for this show together and approached the BBC as we knew it was the perfect home,” said Holden. “We are both very passionate about interior design and we’ll be very hands on, injecting some much-needed life into an area of Sicily that’s in need of some Holden and Carr magic.

She added: “Although we’re on the same page most of the time, I’m more practical and organized than Alan. However, he’s up for some shameless bargaining so that will help us keep on budget! We’ve already started filming and one thing’s for sure, we’re not shy of a power tool!”

When they’re not busy with DIY work, the two will also immerse themselves in the local culture by meeting their neighbors and wandering the beautiful Sicilian countryside.

“After presenting two series of ‘Interior Design Masters’ I feel now it’s time for me to pop my hard hat on, slip on my steel toe capped boots and really get my hands dirty,” said Carr. “Working in beautiful Sicily with one of my dearest friends is like I’ve won the jackpot. Expect a summer of drilling, demolition and hopefully la dolce vita!”

“The Italian Job” will air on BBC One later this year.