Grand Designs - Grand programme (Grand Designs)

Member Name: dove3066

Product:	Grand Designs
Date:	29/01/09 (25 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Interesting, get to see building from start to finish

Disadvantages: None

I am so glad that this programme is now back on our screens. I like a bit of escapism for the winter months.

The whole premise of the show is someone deciding to build a new house, or renovate and extend an existing property. As the name suggests these are always on a grand scale. The programme has featured , houses which are almost all made of glass, converted churches, converted castles, kit built houses, houses that look like boats - they are all really individual.

In some cases they do have lots of money to spend and this is a bit of a whim - I remember watching one where the ex managing director of Gillette was building a modern day mansion out in the country somewhere with a budget that ran into millions but most of the projects are a bit more down to earth.

They often involve really new techniques or materials which I find interesting. It is hosted by Kevin Macleod, who is just wonderful. He has a slightly sarcastic nature at time and is happy to say when he doesn't like something or thinks the builders are being ridiculous.

I love the way that most of the projects you get to see from the very beginning - whether that's demolishing teh existing building or just starting the foundations to the final finished "lived in" version - there are a few that never get to the end as they are running so far behind schedule but these are the exception

Summary: Real escapism and feel good TV