Ep 5. North Cornwall 2014

In season 11 episode 5 of Grand Designs, titled "North Cornwall 2014," viewers are taken on a journey to the stunning coast of North Cornwall where a couple is attempting to build their dream home.

The episode starts with the introduction of Tim and Phil who have purchased a large plot of land in the coastal area of North Cornwall. They have a grand vision of building an eco-friendly, three-story house that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

The couple has a tight budget of £250,000, so they plan to do most of the work themselves with the help of friends and family. However, their dream is not without challenges, and they soon realize the plot of land has a steep slope that requires extensive groundwork.

Despite the obstacles, Tim and Phil proceed with the project, and viewers are shown the step-by-step process of the building from designing to construction. The architects’ design requires the use of sustainable materials such as straw bales, recycled timber, and hemp fiber insulation.

Throughout the episode, viewers witness the struggles of the couple as they face unexpected setbacks such as unfavorable weather conditions, construction regulations, and difficult sourcing of unique materials. The timeline extends into two years of construction work, but their passion for building their dream home never wavers.

The house features a unique architectural design that follows the curve of the surrounding landscape, allowing it to blend in with the environment. The interiors of the house are warm and inviting, with rustic touches, and a sense of minimalism.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on a tour of the beautiful house, from the spacious living rooms to the bedrooms with stunning views of the Cornish coast. The sustainable features of the house are showcased too, such as the underfloor heating system, a rainwater tank, and a solar panel array that powers the entire building, including an electric car.

Overall, this episode of Grand Designs is a must-watch for anyone interested in sustainable architecture, and those who dream of building their homes by themselves. The show's narrative perfectly captures the trials and tribulations of building a home from scratch, and Tim and Phil's quest to build an eco-friendly home is truly inspiring.