Josie Gibson turns West Country home into eco smallholding in new TV series

Josie Gibson on her farm next to two of her goats
Josie Gibson’s Big Country Build follows the challenges the presenter faced when renovating her home (Image credit: ITV)

Josie Gibson is renovating her Somerset home in a new ITV primetime series airing in 2026.

The seven-part show, Josie Gibson’s Big Country Build, will follow the presenter as she transforms a derelict countryside property into a self-sufficient, environmentally focused residence.

The series documents the full renovation process, from initial planning and design through demolition, build phases and eco upgrades, giving viewers a step-by-step view of the challenges, decisions and creativity involved in turning a rundown house into a personalised, modern country home.

Planning, permits and a family-run site

Gibson begins her renovation by tackling the kind of planning and preparation challenges most renovators face: working out layout changes, applying for planning permission, and dealing with overgrowth and structural damage.

The early episodes will reflect many of the steps outlined in this practical guide to planning a home renovation, including understanding local regulations, budgeting time realistically, and assessing what can be preserved or repurposed.

The renovation is very much a family project. Gibson is joined by her brothers Josh and Charlie, both scrap metal traders, and cousin Tom, a builder. She also involves tradespeople from the local area, adding a community dynamic to the process.

“My dream is to build a house as eco and luxurious as possible where you are immersed in the sanctuary of nature,” Gibson wrote on Instagram. “I want bees, birds, badgers, to all live in harmony. Though I’m becoming increasingly concerned that my harmonious dream is slowly turning into a construction nightmare.”

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Managing costs while going green

Eco priorities are central to the project, but so are the financial pressures that come with them. Gibson’s plans include installing a ground source heat pump, setting up flowing beehives, and growing her own produce on the four-acre property.

As the series unfolds, she navigates the balance between ambition and house renovation costs, which outlines how to structure a realistic budget and manage overrun risks.

To stay within limits, she leans on DIY solutions, family labour, and low-cost materials where Josie uses expert ways to renovate on a budget.

Her on-screen adjustments reflect the type of smart decision-making that helps stretch a renovation budget without sacrificing core goals.

Designing for lifestyle and long-term value

Gibson’s vision includes practical features like blackout windows, a walk-in wardrobe, and an on-site gym.

But alongside those luxuries, the renovation also focuses on energy efficiency, insulation, and natural light, elements that increase both quality of life and resale value.

These design choices align closely with how to renovate for profit, which highlights the long-term return of thoughtful, eco-conscious upgrades.

The visual impact of the project, including outdoor living zones, rustic-modern finishes, and open-plan kitchen layouts, draws inspiration from many of these brilliant home renovation ideas.

Viewers will watch how design and practicality are weighed in real time, something rarely seen outside of professional building sites.

What's do we know so far?

Gibson confirmed the series on Instagram, saying: “I can’t wait to bring the audience along on this journey with me!”

The series will air on ITV in 2026 and is produced by MGM Alternative.

Each episode is expected to cover a major phase in the project, from demolition and site layout to internal fit-out, eco installations, and final finishes.

Joseph Mullane
News Editor

News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals.  Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.