Ep 8. Revisited - Creuse, France: 19th Century Manor House

Revisited - Creuse, France: 19th Century Manor House is a captivating episode of the 14th season of the popular television series Grand Designs. This episode takes us back to an earlier installation of the show, where host Kevin McCloud visited the rural department of Creuse in France to explore a beautiful 19th-century manor house that had been renovated by its new owners, Tim and Philomena.

In the original episode, we saw Tim and Philomena's ambitious plans to transform the dilapidated property into a stunning family home. Working with local architects, builders, and craftsmen, the couple faced numerous challenges, from initial planning permission issues to the daunting task of completely renovating an entire wing of the house.

Since this was a revisit episode, the focus was on what had happened to the property since Kevin's original visit. Starting with an update on Tim and Philomena's lives, we see their continued enthusiasm for the project and their joy at being able to call this magnificent property their home.

Kevin takes us on a tour of the manor house, showing us how the couple has managed to preserve the authenticity of the original structure while introducing modern elements that make the house comfortable and practical for modern living. The centerpiece of the property is a stunning double-height living room that showcases the building's original features, including its beautiful stone walls and vaulted ceilings.

Throughout the episode, we see how Tim and Philomena's commitment to working with local craftsmen has paid off, resulting in some simply stunning workmanship throughout the property. We also get a glimpse into the upkeep and maintenance that such a large property requires, as the couple shares their experiences of dealing with issues ranging from a leaky roof to a problematic boiler.

The episode ends on a high note, with Tim and Philomena reflecting on what they've achieved and how much the property means to them. While there have been times when they wondered if they'd bitten off more than they could chew, they're happy to report that the project has surpassed their wildest expectations and given them a home that they're truly proud of.

Overall, Revisited - Creuse, France: 19th Century Manor House is a heartwarming episode that showcases the rewards of hard work and dedication. Tim and Philomena's story is a testament to the power of vision and the value of collaboration, and serves as an inspiration to anyone who dreams of creating their own dream home.