Ep 5. Liskeard, Cornwall

In season 18 episode 5 of Grand Designs, viewers are taken to the picturesque countryside town of Liskeard in Cornwall, where an ambitious couple, Sarah and Dean, have set their sights on constructing their dream home.

Their vision for the house is unique and unconventional. They want to build a two-story timber-framed structure that is shaped like a cross, with a central courtyard that has a retractable roof. This outdoor space will be the heart of the home, providing ample natural light and a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape.

However, the road to building their dream home is not without its challenges. Sarah and Dean have never built a house before, and they decide to take on the role of project managers themselves, which means they have to handle everything from the design and planning to the building work and budget.

The first hurdle they encounter is getting planning permission. The local council initially rejects their plans, citing concerns about the size and design of the house. Sarah and Dean are undeterred and enlist a seasoned architect to help them modify the plans and make them more appealing to the council. After several rounds of revisions, they finally get the go-ahead to start building.

The next challenge is finding the right construction team. Sarah and Dean are passionate about using sustainable and eco-friendly materials, and they want to work with builders who share their values. They eventually find a company that specializes in timber-framed houses, and they are pleased with the speed and efficiency with which the team works.

As the construction progresses, Sarah and Dean face more unexpected hurdles. The building site is on a steep slope, which means that the foundation work is complex and time-consuming. They also have to deal with unexpected delays due to bad weather and supplier shortages.

Despite these setbacks, the couple remains determined to see the project through to the end. They pour their hearts and souls into every aspect of the build, from choosing the color of the roof tiles to designing bespoke furniture for the interior.

The finished house is a sight to behold. The cross-shaped design is striking and bold, but somehow still blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The central courtyard is everything Sarah and Dean hoped it would be, providing a beautiful and functional gathering space for their family and friends.

In the end, Sarah and Dean's journey to build their dream home is a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and hard work. Their house is an embodiment of their shared vision and values, and a beautiful tribute to the unique beauty of the Cornish countryside.