During the 1980s, PBS brought practical home improvement knowledge directly into living rooms through groundbreaking shows that combined education with inspiration, helping everyday people transform their homes with confidence and creativity.
PBS's Rise in Home Repair & Renovation Programming
In the 1980s, PBS capitalized on growing interest in do-it-yourself projects by launching shows like 'This Old House' and 'Home Improvement,' which blended expert guidance with relatable homeowner stories. These programs emphasized quality craftsmanship, cost-effective solutions, and sustainable renovations—all delivered in accessible, family-friendly formats that resonated across generations. Their meticulous attention to detail and real-life problem solving set a new standard for educational home media.
Key Shows That Defined the Era
Landmark programs such as 'This Old House' offered in-depth restoration guides, while 'Home Improvement' brought humor and hands-on DIY challenges to mainstream audiences. 'Fixer-Upper' and regional PBS specials highlighted practical renovations, energy efficiency, and smart space design. These shows didn’t just teach skills—they sparked community engagement, encouraging viewers to take pride in personalizing their homes. Their lasting influence is evident in today’s DIY movement and home improvement content.
Legacy and Influence on Modern Home Improvement Media
The 1980s PBS shows laid the foundation for today’s home improvement genre by proving that educational content could be both informative and entertaining. Their emphasis on quality, patience, and creativity continues to inspire modern creators and audiences alike. By merging expertise with approachability, these programs helped democratize home renovation, making it accessible to all. Their legacy endures in contemporary shows, blogs, and social media, reminding us that great home improvement begins with curiosity and a willingness to learn.
The 1980s PBS home improvement shows were more than just programming—they were cultural milestones that empowered viewers to reshape their spaces with confidence and craftsmanship. If you’re passionate about DIY, explore these timeless classics and let their spirit guide your next project. Rediscover the joy of building, fixing, and creating with PBS’s enduring legacy.
Hometime is an American PBS home improvement television program. It aired from November 1, 1986, to January 30, 2016. Hometime was broadcast on public television and in syndication.
Hometime was produced by Hometime Video Publishing of Chaska, Minnesota, in association with WHYY-TV - Wilmington / Philadelphia. In 1987, Hometime Video Publishing set up a duplication arm, The Duplication. "This Old House" is the longest.
Help me identify a 70's-80's home repair show March 13, 2008 9:50 PM Subscribe TV FILTER: I am looking for the name of a 70s-80s home repair/gardening TV show, and the female host's name. I used to watch the show, in syndication, on local Seattle TV in the early 80s. I believe the show was made in Canada, but maybe the US.
Certainly, there have been a lot of TV shows, and hosts, dedicated to these concepts. We aren't talking about "Home Improvement" either; Tim Allen sitcoms don't count. Hometime is a how-to show on PBS demonstrating both do-it-yourself and contractor preformed projects ranging from simple weekend projects to the building or remodeling of entire houses.
The show has always been hosted by contractor Dean Johnson who had a series of co-hosts throughout the show's run, Peggy Knapp from 1986 to 1987, JoAnne (JoJo) Liebeler from 1987 to 1992, Susanne Egli from 1992. Now in its 40th season, the PBS home-improvement show This Old House feels like the TV equivalent of New England clam chowder: hearty, wholesome, and old. Hometime: With Dean Johnson, Miriam Johnson, Tom Weckwerth, Dan Laabs.
Detailed information on how to install and repair various areas /parts of the home. The main host, Dean Johnson shares in-depth, yet easy to follow DIY instructions. Along with input and video clips from the manufacturers of the products that are used.
Explore the compelling world of home rehabilitation with our comprehensively curated list, rich with popular renovation dramas that have captured people's hearts across the globe. This detailed inventory encompasses a myriad of shows that tops the viewers' ratings, a distinctive presentation that. In addition to how-to instruction, the show provides information on constructing new houses and renovating older homes.
2011 marks the twenty. Hometime is a PBS home improvement television show produced by Hometime Video Publishing, Chaska, Minnesota, in association with WHYY-TV Philadelphia/Wilmington, Delaware, and broadcast on public television and in syndication.
