Livinghouse

The beginning of October marks the countdown to Grand Designs Live where fans of the Channel 4 show get to glimpse their design hero in the flesh. Yes, Kevin McCloud will once again be presenting the large scale exhibition full of the latest trends, ideas and inspiration for the home.

Grand Designs Live runs from 8-11^th October at the NEC, Birmingham and features 500 exhibitors across six different sections, including interiors, build, bathrooms, kitchens, gardens and technology.

What’s on?

During the four days you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of events, as well as pick up tips and bend the ear of design experts.

Expert advice

Catch words of design wisdom from industry experts Kevin McCloud, George Clarke, Charlie Luxton, Kelly Hoppen, Oliver Heath, Sophie Robinson, Daniel Hopwood and more in seminars and debates in the Grand Theatre. Pick the brains of those in the know regarding bi-folding doors in Ask the Expert in the Grand Build section and learn invaluable tips from interior design experts in the Grand Interiors Theatre. Get to grips with your kitchen project during the free 30 minute consultations with experts from the Kitchen Design Stage in the Kitchen Advice Centre sponsored by Miele.

Green design

See inspiring life-sized eco homes and structures in The Grand Village and find out who Kevin McCloud’s latest handpicked Green Heroes are, plus discover their ‘eco-innovations.’ Visit The Green House in the Grand Technology section for an ‘interactive walk through experience showing’ how eco-friendly and cutting-edge technology can work in harmony.

Grand bathrooms

If you’re looking for bathroom inspiration, then head to the Grand Bathrooms section to see the latest innovative designs from exhibitors. Amongst them, Pebble Grey will be exhibiting five inspirational ideas for small bathrooms.

Look out for Electrolux’s Pure Towel that ‘instantly cleans your towel after usage’ which will be showcased in The Green House. Apparently the combination of a high speed dryer fan and ultra violet rays both dries and purifies the towel in seconds. However, this smart technology doesn’t come cheap with a recommended retail price of £2,500.

Efergy’s Showertime is more affordable with a RRP of £8.71 and aims to save you money by reducing your energy consumption whilst you shower. This small bit of kit can be hung from a supplied lanyard or attached via a suction cup and will audibly alert you when you exceed your pre-determined water use level. Clever, eh? Again, you can see it in action in The Green House.

Grand Designs Live is definitely worth a visit to see the latest innovative and inspiring designs for the home and pick up a few insider tips from revered industry experts. The exhibition runs from the 8-11^th October and is open from 10am to 6pm, except for Sunday 11^th October when it closes at 5pm.