Ep 3. Sussex 2015

In season 12, episode 3 of Grand Designs, viewers are introduced to Sussex 2015. This episode follows the journey of a couple, Tom and Danielle Raffield, as they attempt to build their dream home in the heart of the English countryside.

Tom is a self-taught furniture designer who specializes in steam-bending wood, and he and Danielle have dreamed of building a unique family home for years. They purchase a plot of land in a small village in Sussex and set about designing a home that reflects their love of nature and passion for craftsmanship.

The couple's design is ambitious and challenging, as they aim to create a home that seamlessly blends into the surrounding woodland and is constructed almost entirely from wood. The walls, floors, and even the roof will be made from timber, and the home will be heated using a wood-burning stove and solar panels.

Tom and Danielle's passion for natural and sustainable materials is evident throughout the build, as they source materials locally and utilize reclaimed wood as much as possible. They also enlist the help of a team of craftsmen, including a local carpenter and an expert in natural insulation, to ensure that every detail of the home is carefully considered.

As the building progresses, the couple faces numerous challenges and setbacks, including disagreements with local planners and unexpected costs. However, their determination and passion for the project never wavers, and they work tirelessly to overcome each obstacle.

Viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the home's progress, as the wooden structure slowly takes shape against the backdrop of the rolling Sussex hills. As the home nears completion, Tom and Danielle are faced with the task of furnishing it in a way that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding woodland.

Grand Designs season 12, episode 3 offers a fascinating insight into the complex and challenging process of building a sustainable and environmentally conscious home. Tom and Danielle's passion for craftsmanship and natural materials is truly inspiring, and viewers are sure to be captivated by their journey.