4th – 6th October saw the Grand Designs show visit the NEC in Birmingham. It is a show I always make a point of visiting due to the vast array of exhibitors on show and the number of masterclasses available to attend. Every year I learn something new I consider it is a must for anyone undertaking a building project.
The show was even bigger this year taking over the next door hall as well as its normal home to give a bit of breathing space but also to include additional exhibitors such as timber frame manufacturers.
The hall was split into 5 areas this year rather than the normal 4. Interior, Houseware and Food, Gardens, Bathrooms and Build.
The interiors section does bring out the geek in me and as my favourite part of the show I do make a point of visiting this area first. The Eco-Tech House was well worth having a good look at. The new items on show each year never cease to amaze and it isn’t just a case of making things smaller its also the design element of them. Take the `play` radiators from Jaga for example. Such a simple design but great for kids as is the cute bed pictured left. Then there is the statement bath from wild terrain designs or the handleless dishwasher from Miele. All pretty amazing stuff which makes you think `I wish i`d thought of that`.
I`m not a greenfingered person by any means so I do tend to have a quick mosey through the garden section. There are some fantastic products from low cost but clever planters to very expensive jacuzzi baths. I was particularly impressed with a jacuzzi pool which played tricks with your eyes and looked like the kind of thing you would find in an expensive spa.
The kitchen area is where exhibitors such as Miele and Smeg show off their wares and the design element here is strong. There are lots a neat ideas which are great for space saving as our room sizes become smaller, but are also aesthetically pleasing. Take the denim (yes denim!) fridge (right) from Smeg. Not to everyone`s taste granted and it does create some double denim issues should you be wearing jeans within the fridge`s vicinity. However, the important thing here is to see a different type of material being used and not the same old same old. After all what is the point in building or renovating a home only to fill it with the same furniture everyone else has? Maybe the leather and carpet walls (left) are a step too far mind you.
The build section is vital for anyone looking to undertake a build project, whatever the style, block and brick or timber frame manufactured. Just as importantly as the products being exhibited is the raft of knowledge these guys have and advice they can impart. The norm is not what you will find here but if you are looking for more non-standard construction types such as ICF, SIPS & timber frames or advice on rainwater harvesters this is the place for you.
In addition they do have an ask the expert area covering many aspects of a building project, from planning and finance through to technology and kitchens. This area along with the masterclasses are a must for anyone undertaking a project as the exhibitors are experts within their fields and have a huge amount of knowledge to pass on. The masterclasses also give you an opportunity to ask questions about your own project.
The final area is a bit of indulgence for any foodies as there is an area of local(ish) made foods to try and buy and well worth visiting before leaving. The cheeses from Snowdonia Cheese and Wyke Farm were delicious.
It was a very busy show, with more visitors than ever this year. Thankfully it will be spread over 4 days next year when I will be visiting again no doubt.