For nearly two decades, Grand Designs Live has been the UK’s premier event for homeowners, renovators, self-builders, and design enthusiasts. Sponsored by leading industry names like Smeg, this showcase brings the iconic Grand Designs spirit to life—offering inspiration, practical advice, and imaginative solutions for every part of your home and garden project.
Whether you’re planning a full-scale build, a stylish renovation, or a clever interior update, this show provides the ideas, contacts, and expertise to design with confidence and creativity.
Why This Show Is Unmissable
Grand Designs Live stands apart from other home improvement events because it’s built around immersive experiences and storytelling. Inspired by Kevin McCloud’s famous TV programme, the live event transforms spaces into interactive, real-world showcases. You’ll explore installations like The Grand House, walk through green-tech zones, and attend expert-led talks. Success stories and innovative concepts come to life in a way no catalogue or showroom can match.
Where and When It’s Held
In 2025, Grand Designs Live will take place at NEC Birmingham from 3rd to 5th October, opening daily from 10:00 to 17:00. The NEC’s Hall 20 becomes a layered landscape of creativity and expertise, with clearly marked zones—from building and landscaping to sustainability, interiors, and gardens.
In 2026, the London edition returns to ExCeL London from 1st to 4th May, with hours from 10:00 to 17:00 .
Accessible by public transport—via Birmingham International station for NEC and the Elizabeth Line/DLR for ExCeL—both venues also offer parking options, often with pre-book discounts.
Ticketing and Costs
Standard adult tickets range from £12 to £14, with on-the-door rates slightly higher at up to £20 on weekends. Children aged 15 and under attend free when accompanied by an adult. Trade passes and carer tickets are also available upon request. Booking in advance guarantees entry and helps avoid queueing.
Accommodation Options
NEC Birmingham is surrounded by hotels including the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, Voco St John’s, and nearby guesthouses with shuttle access . In London, the ExCeL Docklands area offers numerous hotels—ranging from Novotel and ibis to more upscale Docklands properties. For those staying in the city centre, the Elizabeth Line provides quick and convenient access.
Zones and Highlights
The Grand House
A show-stopping installation that feels like stepping into a dream project. Built by brands featured on Grand Designs TV, it blends real-world advice, premium products, and aspirational design. Hear how projects came together and take home practical tips.
Expert Advice Centres
Four hubs staffed by industry professionals offer free consultations on architecture, sustainability, landscaping, and interiors. These sessions—usually 30 minutes long—provide bespoke guidance for your specific project.
Live Theatres and Talks
Across multiple stages, expert talks explore sustainable building, energy efficiency, design strategy, and garden innovation. You’ll join sessions led by architects, green-tech specialists, and the show’s own Emerging Brands spotlight.
Installations and Emerging Brands
Look out for product showcases, garden design features, outdoor living zones, kitchens, bathrooms—and Kevin McCloud’s Green Heroes presenting innovative eco-solution.
Live Demonstrations and Workshops
From stone laying to smart-home technology integrations, these live demos bring building processes to life. They’re designed to inspire and educate, helping visitors understand how products and systems work together.
Benefits of Attending
Inspiration + Practicality
The show combines aspirational design with actionable ideas. Visit spaces that feel like dream homes and walk away knowing how to achieve those results with real-world budgets and planning.
Access to Experts
From one-on-one sessions with planners and landscapers to live theatre talks with architects and energy consultants, the show delivers professional insight that saves time and money.
Compare Products
With hundreds of suppliers across building, interiors, and gardens, you can assess quality, price, and finish in person. It’s the perfect place to make direct comparisons and gather ideas on materials and finishes.
Energising Environment
Beyond shopping, the atmosphere is celebratory. It’s a mix of design showcases, performance gardens, green-tech innovation, and practical hustle—making it both educational and uplifting.
Free Entry for Children
The show welcomes families. With free child entry and engaging displays, it’s a learning opportunity and a treat for younger visitors as well.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Book early to secure tickets and consult slots.
- Arrive at opening time to experience quieter exhibition walks.
- Plan your visit using the website guide—mark zones and talks you’re most keen to visit.
- Bring your plans—having photos, sketches, or wish lists helps when speaking to experts.
- Collect samples—carry a tote or small roller bag for materials, brochures, and shopping.
- Dress for comfort—the show covers a large footprint, so expect lots of walking.
- Engage with experts—Q&A sessions are your chance to get clarity on tricky design or build questions.
- Network in refreshment zones—chat with other attendees and professionals in a relaxed setting.
Who Should Go
- DIY self-builders and renovators
- Homeowners planning extensions or back-garden transformations
- Interior designers and architects
- Tradespeople looking for new products
- Landscape gardeners and outdoor designers
- Eco-conscious builders and green-tech enthusiasts
If you’re dreaming of a unique living space, want to understand what makes great design work, or need hard evidence before investing, this show is made for you.
Final Thoughts
Grand Designs Live blends aspirational ideas with practical expertise. It’s where dreams meet reality—where live builds, eco-design, interior innovation, and outdoor living all come together. Whether you’re just sketching ideas or ready to break ground, attending this show gives you the confidence, contacts, and clarity to build a home that’s thoughtful, beautiful, and entirely your own.
Visit and book your tickets here: https://www.granddesignslive.com