Build It Bigger

Watch Build It Bigger

  • TV-G
  • 2008
  • 5 Seasons
  • 7.7  (394)

Build It Bigger is a documentary series that originally premiered on the Science Channel in 2006. The show follows civil engineer and host, Danny Forster, as he travels the world to explore some of the most impressive and innovative architecture and engineering projects of our time.

Each episode focuses on a different project, ranging from skyscrapers and bridges to massive dams and cutting-edge sports stadiums. Accompanied by co-hosts Margaret Teo and Tahir Gozel, Forster delves deep into the design, construction and implementation of each project, breaking down complex engineering concepts into easy-to-understand explanations for viewers.

One of the show's standout episodes features the construction of the world's largest cruise ship, the Freedom of the Seas. Forster and his team explore the shipyard where the massive vessel is being built, speaking with engineers and shipbuilders about the challenges they face in constructing such a colossal ship. Viewers get a glimpse into every step of the ship's construction, from the laying of the keel to the addition of the final luxuriant touches.

Another episode follows the building of a groundbreaking new bridge that spans the Panama Canal. The project is unique in that the bridge was designed not to disrupt the canal's busy shipping traffic, meaning that it had to be built using only small boats and barges rather than enormous cranes and other heavy machinery. Forster and his team follow the construction crew as they attempt to navigate the challenges of building such an innovative structure.

Throughout the series, Forster showcases not only the incredible engineering feats at play but also the people behind them. Viewers get to meet the engineers, architects, and laborers who bring these projects to life, highlighting the immense levels of teamwork and collaboration required to make these dreams a reality.

One of the most captivating aspects of Build It Bigger is its ability to showcase the cutting-edge technology being used in modern construction projects. From 3D printing and laser scanning to immersive virtual reality simulations, every episode of the series demonstrates how technology has transformed the construction industry and made it possible to achieve groundbreaking feats that would have been impossible even a few decades ago.

To make the show even more engaging, Forster and his co-hosts often participate in the construction process themselves, donning hard hats and safety gear to get their hands dirty alongside the construction crews. Viewers get to see firsthand the obstacles and challenges that these projects face, from funding and scheduling issues to unexpected complications on the job site.

Overall, Build It Bigger is a fascinating and informative documentary series that explores some of the most impressive engineering and architecture projects of our time. With its engaging hosts and cutting-edge technology, the show offers viewers a unique perspective on the construction process, showcasing the incredible collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving skills required to create some of the world's most iconic structures.

Build It Bigger is a series that ran for 5 seasons (48 episodes) between December 30, 2008 and on Science Channel

Build It Bigger
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Seasons
Turkey's Mammoth Hydropowdered Deriner Dam
8. Turkey's Mammoth Hydropowdered Deriner Dam
September 17, 2011
In Turkey Danny joins crews as they build the Deriner Dam, one of the tallest and strongest dams ever constructed, designed to hold back 500 billion gallons of water. When complete it will create enough energy to power the city of Istanbul forever.
Building Mumbai's Modern Airport
7. Building Mumbai's Modern Airport
September 10, 2011
Danny Forster joins crews as they attempt to overhaul Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai without canceling a single flight. If they succeed, the new airport will revolutionize airport design and change the face of India forever.
Amsterdam's Futuristic Floating City
6. Amsterdam's Futuristic Floating City
June 25, 2011
The Netherlands is getting low on land. Nearly 1/4 of their land and 60% of their population lies beneath sea level. Rather than fight back the sea, engineers are creating real estate where none exists.
Constructing Serbia's Largest Bridge
5. Constructing Serbia's Largest Bridge
June 18, 2011
Joining the construction of Serbia's newest national icon, Johnny will participate in building the world's largest single pylon cable bridge which will improve transportation for freight astronomically.
London's Olympic Aquatic Stadium
4. London's Olympic Aquatic Stadium
April 29, 2011
The London Aquatics Centre, one of the most advanced swimming facilities ever built, will host 44 swimming & diving events during the 2012 Olympics and will thrive as a new addition to the London landscape.
Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation
3. Azerbaijan's Amazing Transformation
April 22, 2011
After decades of Soviet occupation, Azerbaijan is reinventing itself. With a $6 billion a year renovation and 500 new developments, Danny Forster goes behind the scenes of Baku's construction projects: the Flame Towers and Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center.
Drought-Proofing Australia
2. Drought-Proofing Australia
April 15, 2011
Australia is running out of water due to a 12 year drought that has bleached farmland and prompted cities to ban certain water usage. Melbourne is turning to the island's only unlimited water source: the ocean.
Rebuilding New York City's Subway
1. Rebuilding New York City's Subway
April 8, 2011
Danny takes us to New York City, where the largest public works project in the country is happening: a $15 billion expansion of the NYC transit system. He heads 150 feet underground to find out what can be done without shutting down the city above.
Description
Where to Watch Build It Bigger
Build It Bigger is available for streaming on the Science Channel website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Build It Bigger on demand at Discovery+, Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hulu, Vudu, Science Channel and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    December 30, 2008
  • IMDB Rating
    7.7  (394)