Grand Designs Live 2018

Grand Designs Live 2018

This is my round up of Grand Designs Live 2018.

Bad selfie!

Firstly, how annoying is it when you get a selfie with one of your heroes and discover it was out of focus?!

This didn’t ruin what was an awesome week for me sharing the stage with Kevin McCloud though.

I was so thrilled the Grand Designs Live team found me on Instagram. Even more so when they invited me to compere the Grand Theatre at this year’s event at the Birmingham NEC. Although I was excited, I could never have imagined just how much I would enjoy it.

It was also a great opportunity to meet some of you who have supported The Home Genie since its infancy.

I thought I’d do a round up of some of my favourite bits from the show.

The Grand Theatre

If you’re ever in two minds about attending Grand Designs Live check out what’s on at the Grand Theatre. The content really was first class. Not only did you have the likes of Kevin McCloud sharing his views and chatting with some of the TV show’s contributors, but also a host of other experts. Oh and I learned Mr McCloud has a thing for peeing outside!!!

Piers Taylor (The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes), Dick Strawbridge and Angel Adoree (Escape to the Chateau) took to the stage. Also a host of industry experts covered a wide range of fascinating topics.

Groundwork’s Ben Coles and Kunle Barker joined Architect James Furzer. He was discussing his proposal to improve the lives of the homeless with an innovative shelter he’s designed, which encouraged much debate.

Interiors

There was plenty for me to feast my eyes on around the show as well. I loved this grey clam shell seat from Culinary Concepts.

This yellow lounger from FAB Interiors caused quite a stir.

I was really drawn to this magical artwork by Miller James Artists.

Build

It was a great opportunity for me to catch up with my friends at Solidor and check out their new range of door finishes. Oh and pick out one for my self build I’m just about to start!

Brickslips also caught my eye, as a great idea for creating exposed brick walls in a cost-effective way. I think I’ll definitely be using these in the near future. 

I’ve also added these gorgeous switches to my shopping list from Dowsing & Reynolds – aren’t they stunning?

Exterior

I had lengthy chats with the guys at Wonderwall as I really want to incorporate a green wall into my upcoming build too.

I must also say a big thank you to Annie Sloan for donating a huge amount of their chalk paint to be given out to the upcycling hungry audience!

All I can say is I really hope I’m invited back again next time!