Grand Designs Season 2 Episode 12 Revisited - Lambourn: The Cruciform House

Revisited - Lambourn: The Cruciform House is the twelfth episode of the second season of the popular British television series, Grand Designs. In this episode, the show revisits a couple, Gwyn and Kate, who have built an innovative and ambitious cruciform house in Lambourn, Berkshire.

The episode begins with a recap of Gwyn and Kate's journey on the show so far. The couple had initially embarked on their project with the aim of creating a sustainable and self-sufficient home for their family of six. They had limited experience in construction and had set themselves a challenging budget of £200,000 to complete the build.

The Cruciform House was a complex and unique design that featured four wings arranged in a cross-shaped formation. The roof of the house was covered in photovoltaic cells, which generated enough energy to power both the house and an adjacent barn. The interior of the house was open-plan, with a central atrium that allowed light to flood into every room.

As the episode progresses, presenter Kevin McCloud catches up with Gwyn and Kate to see how they have settled into their new home. They take him on a tour of the house and point out the various features they are particularly proud of, including the composting toilet system and the rainwater harvesting tanks.

McCloud is impressed by the level of attention to detail that has gone into the materials and finishes of the house. The couple had sourced local materials, such as oak and flint, and had used them in innovative ways throughout the home. The result was a house that blended seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and felt very much a part of its environment.

Despite the challenges the couple had faced during the build – which included running out of money and having to finish some of the work themselves – Gwyn and Kate are proud of what they have achieved. They have managed to create a warm, welcoming home that is both comfortable and sustainable.

The episode also explores the impact that the Cruciform House has had on the local community. The house has become something of a local landmark, and Gwyn and Kate have opened their doors to visitors who are interested in sustainable architecture. They have even gone on to build a workshop on their land, where they run courses and workshops on sustainable building techniques.

Overall, Revisited – Lambourn: The Cruciform House is a fascinating look at the challenges and rewards of building a sustainable, self-sufficient home. Gwyn and Kate's commitment to their vision and their willingness to take risks in pursuit of their goal is inspiring, and the end result is a beautiful and unique home that is a testament to their vision and dedication. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in architecture, sustainability, or simply the power of determination and creativity.