The Grand Designs Live exhibition seems to be growing with inspiration each day that it's running. I visited on opening day and it was quite busy with lots of different people searching for design inspiration and sourcing information and brands to assist them with their first renovation, or redecorating projects.
I arrived and headed straight over to the Grand Theatre, so that I could get the background info on Iain & Jenny Shillady's epic renovation on a 150 year old bothy. Hearing how they knocked down some of the walls and attached it to a 200 square-metre black timber clad extension was both inspiring and humbling - such an incredible and impressive project.
A really great addition to the exhibition this year was definitely the debut of Green Living Live - in partnership with myenergi. The standalone event is dedicated to educating visitors on eco-friendly and conscious products and services from companies that put sustainability at the very heart of their business.
You'll also find invaluable inspiration at the 'Eco Theatre and Advice Hub', a live stage devoted to issues surrounding sustainability. And where experts are discussing "hot topics" such as, how to plan an eco-build project in a cost-effective way, as well as advising you on how you can source sustainable furnishings.
My "must see" in this zone, was definitely the ModPod Zero low-carbon house, a collaboration with EDF Energy. On entering this life-size show home, you can see first hand some of the amazing solutions and gadgets that can be implemented into your own home to help you achieve a lower cost of living.
Overall, the exhibition is packed with unlimited inspiration and you will be "spoilt for choice" by the myriad of brands across a range of different areas, covering: Build, Kitchen & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors.
You'll also be able to discover reputable building suppliers, architects, and bespoke furnishings. And if you'd like no obligation advice for your own project, then make a stop at the Ask An Expert area, where you'll find Specialists to assist you. Consultations are available on a "first-come-first-served" basis. And the more information you can take along with you the better, so if you have your plans, drawings and budget, then you can really get the most out of your visit.
And if you'd like help and advice with EVERY aspect of your project all in ONE PLACE and managed by ONE PERSON, then please send me a short note with your contact details and I'll give you a call.