Ep 11. South London, 2013

In Grand Designs season 9 episode 11 titled "South London, 2013," viewers are taken on a journey through the construction of a unique and challenging build. The project, located in a conservation area of South London, presented a number of obstacles for the homeowners, including limited access and a strict time frame for construction.

The episode begins by introducing us to the homeowners, who have dreamed of owning a home on this specific plot of land for years. They have hired an architect to design a modern, energy-efficient home that is also in keeping with the surrounding Victorian architecture.

The first challenge the team faces is gaining access to the site, which is located on a narrow, dead-end street. The only way to bring in materials is through a small alleyway and up a set of stairs. To make matters more complicated, a neighboring property is also undergoing construction, which further limits access.

Despite these setbacks, the team begins construction in earnest and quickly hits their first major obstacle: the foundation. The soil on the site is unstable, and the team must figure out how to stabilize it before they can lay the foundation. This involves digging 19 meters down to the bedrock and installing steel piles to support the weight of the building.

With the foundation complete, the team moves on to constructing the walls. To maintain the energy efficiency of the design, the walls are built with a unique method that involves layering straw bales between beams. This method provides excellent insulation while being environmentally friendly.

Despite the challenging construction process, the homeowners remain enthusiastic about the project and see it through to completion. The finished home is a stunning blend of modern and traditional design, with floor-to-ceiling windows and an open plan living area that maximizes the use of space.

Overall, Grand Designs season 9 episode 11 "South London, 2013" is a fascinating look at a challenging construction project that required careful planning, innovative solutions, and a bit of luck to complete. The episode showcases the dedication and ingenuity of the homeowners and their team, and is sure to entertain and inspire viewers looking to embark on their own building projects.