Ep 1. Edwardian - Muswell Hill

In the first episode of the Great Interior Design Challenge season 1, the contestants are challenged to transform a small, Edwardian terraced house in Muswell Hill, London. The three contestants are asked to design two rooms, a living space and a bedroom, each taking inspiration from the Edwardian era while giving them a modern twist.

The episode begins with a brief history of Edwardian design; how it was characterized by elegant proportions, symmetry, and a mix of old and new styles. The contestants share their thoughts on the design style and how they plan to utilize it for the challenge. They also get a tour of the house and get to know the owners, who express their wishes and opinions on the design.

The first contestant, Sarah, decides to go with a bold color scheme, using blues and greens to create a calming atmosphere. She incorporates patterned wallpapers and fabrics, contrasting it with simple furniture. She also uses antique pieces to give a nod to the Edwardian era. The judges appreciate the effort put into the details and the tasteful use of color.

The second contestant, Tom, takes a more avant-garde approach, mixing bright neon colors with metallic accents. He's inspired by art pieces and challenging the client's preconceived notions about traditional design. He also incorporates darker tones and oversized furniture, creating a contrast with the bright colors. The judges are split on the decision, appreciating the creativity but concerned about the balance of the design.

The third contestant, Lucy, goes for a more traditional route but adds her touch by incorporating Moroccan influences, given that the client loves to travel. She uses comfortable fabrics and warm tones, adding texture with various patterns and layering. She also creates a reading nook and adds plants to give a cozy feel to the space. The judges deem her design as warm and accessible.

All of the contestants face some hurdles throughout the challenge, but it's heartwarming to see them help each other out. They all face some last-minute changes before the reveal and it's fascinating to see how they adapt to the new information. The judges visit each room, sharing their thoughts and critiquing the designs based on the brief. In the end, the homeowner chooses their favorite room and the contestant with the lowest score is eliminated.

The first episode of the Great Interior Design Challenge season 1 sets the tone for the rest of the series. It's engaging to see how the contestants interpret the brief in their unique ways, and we get to learn a lot about the Edwardian design style. The show's format is also unique and rewarding; it's exciting to see how the contestants' designs come to life and how the judges critique them. Overall, it's a must-watch for anyone who loves interior design, history, or reality shows.