In this episode of French Reno Diaries UNCENSORED, Rosie, Michaela and Sue pull back the curtain on reality TV renovation shows and glossy YouTube channels - and compare them with what actually happens on real renovation projects in France.

TV shows mentioned:

• Escape to the Chateau (now known as Chateau DIY)
• A Place in the Sun
• New Life in the Sun

The episode also references several renovation-focused YouTube channels:

• Chateau de Purnon
• How to Renovate a Chateau
• Oh No Another Chateau

Helpful resources mentioned:

• Service Public – Official French government information
• FrenchEntrée – English-language resource for living and renovating in France
• Leroy Merlin & Brico Depot – In-store advice, materials and specification sheets
• Local mairie offices and professional artisans for accurate guidance
• Facebook groups (use with caution — advice is often mixed!)

Listener comments: Thanks to Anna, Helen and Claire from our Facebook community for sharing their experiences and insights - we loved reading your comments and comparing them to what we see on TV renovation shows.

Connect:

Facebook | Instagram

Subscribe to the newsletter: https://frenchrenodiaries.substack.com/

Email: frenchrenodiaries@gmail.com

Find out more about us and our French reno businesses:

Maison Bretagne (Rosie Ellis)

S.R. Charpenterie (Sue Peake-Russell)

Paul Wilkins Electricien (Micala Wilkins)

Credits:

• Produced & mixed by: Katy Wright
• Music: Grand Project