10 reasons to visit Grand Designs Live 2023

Grand Designs Live returns to ExCel London from 29 April to 7 May 2023 packed with advice and inspiration for your self-build or renovation. The show is divided into four core sections: Grand Build, Grand Kitchens & Bathrooms, sponsored by Quooker, Grand Interiors and Grand Gardens, sponsored by Hydropool. There are also live talks to entertain and inform, as well as workshops, free expert advice and exhibitors showcasing innovative products for your home improvement project.

Kevin McCloud will also be on stage catching up with memorable faces from the hit TV show, as well as leading lively discussions with industry experts.

Plus, Green Living Live runs alongside Grand Designs Live, focussing on all things sustainability, from electric vehicles to renewable energy systems and low-carbon living.

Here are 10 reasons to visit year’s event.

1. Grand Designs Magazine Theatre

Take a seat in the Grand Designs Magazine Theatre to see host Kevin McCloud alongside a fantastic line-up of speakers including property guru and TV presenter Kunle Barker, property expert and investor Tayo Oguntonade, representatives from the Energy Saving Trust, and RIBA president Simon Allford. Find some of the top talks listed here.

2. Meet the TV series stars

Homeowners from your favourite Channel 4 property show will tell their inspiring stories live on stage, where you’ll get the chance to ask questions about their self-build or renovation experience and even get some advice on your own build. Find out who will be appearing here.

3. Advanced build visualisation

CGI Builder specialises in creating high-quality, computer-generated imagery (CGI) of build projects, which provide a detailed representation of your architectural drawings. The company’s unique production process enables it to produce good-value, fixed-price CGI – all you need to do is upload your drawings to its website. To see the firm’s latest work and take advantage of some special show discounts, visit stand C55.

4. Specialist construction experts

Central Lofts is an attic conversion expert offering great service. For more than 30 years the company has been the first choice for conversion projects across Greater London. Its expertise is built on the strength and professionalism of its team, which includes everyone from architects through to construction specialists. Plus, customers can be safe in the knowledge their build will be overseen by a dedicated project manager. For more details, visit stand E122.

5. Ask an expert

Ask an Expert is a free one-stop shop for useful tips and advice, with specialists on hand including architects, renovation experts and project managers. Bring your plans, budget and ideas along for a detailed assessment. Booking in advance is recommended. Visit the Grand Designs Live website for further details.

6. Buttoning demonstration

Distinctive Chesterfields has been hand-crafting traditional leather furniture and bespoke furnishings for 15 years. At Grand Designs Live you can see demonstrations of the buttoning process and you could even win one of the pieces of furniture created at the show. Visit stand A75.

7. The ufurnish.com Interiors Stage

Join the hosts from home shopping portal ufurnish.com as they invite retailers, interior designers, influencers and bloggers on stage to take part in a programme of talks and demonstrations. Next to the stage you can explore all-new retail roomsets boasting inspirational design solutions sponsored by companies such as Industville Lighting and SLF24.

8. Meet the eco experts

OVO Energy aims to make energy supply fairer, greener, and simpler for all. Visit the Green Living Live Advice Zone powered by OVO Energy, where a whole host of eco experts are on hand to provide tailored advice on everything from insulation and solar power to electric vehicle (EV) charging and heat pumps.

9. Innovative solar glass

Green Living Live sees the launch of the first modular Transparent Solar Power Canopy from the award-winning UK manufacturer Polysolar. The canopy’s integrated technology provides solar energy generation without the need to access your roof. Its attractive modular metal and glass design can be used as a garden veranda, conservatory or carport to power your home or an electric vehicle. A canopy won’t generally require planning permission, is VAT exempt and will pay for itself in a matter of years. Discover the benefits at stand Z82.

10. Kevin’s Green Heroes

Green Heroes celebrates the best conceptual and eco-friendly construction ideas. Every year Kevin personally selects his top heroes for each show, from small-scale start-ups to big businesses setting a green example for the rest of the industry. Highlights this year are Gulp, which prevents your washing machine waste water releasing microplastics and Kenoteq Ltd who have developed The K-Briq® and K-Slip™ bricks which are made from over 90% recycled construction and demolition waste and are 100% recyclable.