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  • Smithsonian Channel

How Did They Build That?

  • 2021 – 2025
  • Returning Series
  • Documentary
  • ~43m / ep
  • 4 seasons
  • 8.0/10

An exploration of how some of the world's biggest man-made structures were built.

Latest: Season 4 · 2025

View all seasons
  1. E1. Space Stations & Super Inventions

    Jul 27, 2025 · 45m

    Lives are on the line creating the International Space Station, a scientific marvel a decade in the making, that changes the way we look at the world.

  2. E2. Medals & Marinas

    Aug 3, 2025 · 45m

    A floating museum honors military heroes in Texas. A sky-park casino balances on six towers. And an office is carved out to protect NYC's High Line.

  3. E3. Speedcore & Steambend

    Aug 10, 2025 · 45m

    A railway-spanning library mimics the clouds. A speed-core skyscraper is built in record time. And a world first bridge inspired by a child's toy.

  4. E4. High Waters & Harsh Winds

    Aug 17, 2025 · 45m

    Apartments hanging 164 feet above the water defy gravity in Amsterdam. A trio of towers shimmer on Chicago's skyline, and museum design is revolutionized in Paris.

  5. E5. Ecobuilds & Earthquakes

    Aug 24, 2025 · 45m

    An airport gets a 9 acre roof without stopping flights. A museum is buried in the desert to keep it cool. And building San Fran's most hated tower.

  6. E6. Shipyards & Slender Builds

    Sep 7, 2025 · 45m

    A 284ft timber tower tests fire safety limits. An old crane tracks is reborn as sleek glass offices. And 28 apartments are stacked on a 21ft plot.

+4 more episodes — open all seasons to browse every episode.

How Did They Build That? | Watch