Eccentric, fabulous, sometimes ugly, always unique, the builds that feature in each episode of hit TV show Grand Designs are fascinating.

We look over Kevin McCloud’s shoulder as he gets to know his Grand Design dreamers, following their building projects from blueprint to completion. It’s gripping stuff. Budgets can be blown, and ambitions thwarted, but it’s always amazing and inspiring to see a vision finally become reality.

As we sit there applauding or questioning the intrepid house-builder's choices, we are often left wondering what we’d choose for a Grand Design of our own.

This year, homeowners looking for inspiration and advice have two chances to visit Grand Designs Live for ideas and products to make their own home projects a success.

The live exhibition based on the TV show and hosted by Kevin McCloud will be at Excel London from April 30 to May 8 and the NEC Birmingham from October 5-9.

 

It features exhibitors, live talks, innovative products, eco solutions and expert advice across four project zones – Build, Kitchens and Bathrooms, Gardens, and Interiors.

The Green Living Live Low-Carbon House takes centre-stage, inviting visitors to take a tour of the building and experience the many innovations it has to offer.

 

For those looking for ground-breaking, planet-friendly products, Kevin’s Green Heroes showcases a selection of the most innovative eco ideas. Kevin personally selects his top heroes for each show, from small-scale start-ups to big businesses setting a green example for the rest of the industry.

The London show also features ‘The Working from Home Project’, sponsored by Crown Paints, which sees interior designers competing to come up with diverse, creative concepts to transform small spaces into useful and beautiful multi-functional working environments for any home.

Visitors can then browse the room sets for ideas, inspiration, and supplier contacts for their own home designs.

Specialists including RIBA architects, interior designers, landscape gardeners, financial, planning and eco experts will also be on hand to discuss your own grand designs. Consultations are first-come-first-serve on the day, so bring your plans, drawings and budgets to get the most out of your session.

For more information on Grand Designs Live, visit https://www.granddesignslive.com/