Ep 2. Oxford: The Decagon House

In season 8 episode 2 of Grand Designs, we follow the story of a unique and futuristic house in Oxford, known as the Decagon House. The episode begins with homeowners John and Terri plotting out their vision for a unique, modern home with a striking 10-sided structure resembling the shape of a stop sign.

The couple's design for the home includes an open-plan living space, with the 10-sided room at the center of the design, as well as a kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The couple has taken a lot of inspiration for the design of their house from the environment it is situated in.

The design for the Decagon House is inspired by one of the owners' background as an eco-architect. The house was designed to be energy-efficient and it will rely on cutting-edge technology to perform its required functions. This involved them using a lot of eco-friendly materials and incorporating features like reclaimed wood, insulation made from recycled newspaper, and a green roof that could host bee hives.

The Decagon House has a unique layout, with an underfloor heating system that runs from the center of the room, with a circular staircase that leads to the first floor suite. The second floor of the house is designed to accommodate a workspace area and a reading corner, which can also double as a third bedroom. The design of the house is centered around the idea of having a spacious, open feel, which conveys a sense of tranquility and calmness.

Throughout the episode, we see the progress of the construction and the many challenges faced by the couple. With the structure having such a unique design, the couple struggled to find a construction company that could deliver the vision they had in mind. The couple is faced with many difficult decisions, from deciding the electric and heating systems, to the many finishes needed which are harder to get than expected.

The Decagon House stands out as a unique and spectacular example of modern architecture. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens with a pond and a plethora of trees that give the place an organic touch. Designing and constructing the house was a long and challenging process that tested the couple's patience.

Through it all, the couple learned that patience and perseverance are the key ingredients to designing your dream home. In the end, the construction of the Decagon House was completed and the final result is a testament to the resilience and persistence of the couple.

Overall, season 8 episode 2 of Grand Designs, titled Oxford: The Decagon House is an engaging and intriguing episode that highlights the importance of designing and building homes with sustainability and functionality in mind. It's an episode that's sure to inspire and impress fans of modern architecture and home design.