Ep 12. Revisited - Argyll: The Oak-Framed House

Revisited - Argyll: The Oak-Framed House is the twelfth and final episode of Grand Designs season 4. In this episode, host Kevin McCloud revisits a couple who dreamed of building their own home in the Scottish countryside.

The couple, Steven and Amanda Miles, wanted to build a house that was contemporary yet blended in with the surrounding landscape. They decided to use oak framing and local stone to achieve this goal. They also wanted to incorporate energy-efficient features like solar panels and a ground-source heat pump.

However, their dream quickly turned into a nightmare when they realized that their budget was too small for their ambitious plans. They had to make several design changes to lower costs, such as reducing the size of the house and using cheaper materials.

Despite these setbacks, Steven and Amanda persevered. They spent several years building their home, with the help of family and friends. They did much of the work themselves, including the tricky oak framing.

In the end, they created a beautiful home that was bright, open, and full of character. The oak frame gave the house a warm and welcoming feel, while the large windows provided stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The house was also very energy-efficient, with a low carbon footprint.

Kevin McCloud returns to visit the Miles family four years after they moved into their home. He reflects on their journey, their struggles, and their triumphs. He also talks to them about how the house has changed their lives.

We see Steven and Amanda hosting a party with friends and family, enjoying the bright and airy space they've created. The house has become a place for them to gather and make memories. They also talk about how they have incorporated their love of art and design into their home, filling it with beautiful objects and creating a gallery space for their collections.

The episode ends with Kevin McCloud reflecting on the Miles family's journey. He notes that building a dream home is never easy, but it is possible with determination and hard work. He also comments on how the Miles family has created a home that is not only beautiful but also sustainable, proving that modern design can work harmoniously with the natural world.

Overall, Revisited - Argyll: The Oak-Framed House is a heartwarming episode that celebrates the power of perseverance and creative vision. It shows how a couple's dream home can become a reality, even in the face of adversity. It is a fitting end to a season that has showcased some of the UK's most innovative and inspiring self-build projects.