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hello there, i am a keen followere of grand designs and the the gran tour, and appreciate your style and presentation skills, however, i was astonish the other day watching gran tour and and the way you discribed that the turks were amazed by the camera obscura brought allegedly by the english tourist visiting athens, and they did not like it because they thought it will steal the spiret of the building in reference to their "egnorance" the fact of the matter is that the turks were very familliar with the device which was modernised and used extentively by the arabs long a go before the westerners who in fact took it by the turks in the 15century.

Posted by sohaib on 31/10/2009 19:16:59

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My wife and I have always enjoyed and admired 'Grand Designs' and Kevin's huge contribution to the programme. We particularly enjoyed watching the programme covering the design and construction of the footbridge in Castleford, Yorkshire linking the two halves of the community. We have just returned from a few days in Yorkshire during which we visited, guess where, Castleford and were able to witness the superb bridge at first hand. As we walked across the wonderful foot bridge, we could hear your words of endorsement ringing in our ears. I was lucky to capture some images of the bridge in the golden light of the October afternoon which will soon be displayed on my web site. Well done Kevin and thank you for the enjoyment that you give. keep up the excellent work!

Posted by Mike Baker on 25/10/2009 20:47:10

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Hi Kevin, just read the article in the Times today 'How I let loose my construction rage'. This is a breath of fresh air. Every Town/City council should have you or your clone on board. Every developer/architect/designer/council official should be made to visit the Antigone development in Montpellier. Would be interested to know your views on this project sometime. I was blown away when visiting this Autumn but can possibly understand both sides of the argument.

Posted by John Walker on 24/10/2009 12:33:04

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Great show Kevin, all the better for your excellent presentation.

Posted by jon on 22/10/2009 12:18:08

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Dear Kevin McCloud and The Grand Designs Team I am an A level student studying Product Design at Sixth Form college. I am a very big fan of Grand Designs and as part of my research for my coursework I visited the Grand Designs Live Exhibition at the Birmingham NEC as I am going to design a piece of eco-friendly, contemporary garden furniture. I would just like to say that I thought the exhibition was amazing, and a really great experience. I was very inspired buy the products and exhibitors at the exhibition and it has helped my alot with the research for my project. Although I was very disappointed that I didnt get to meet Kevin (as I went on the Saturday). I was wondering if you could send me some advice or reccommend some contacts to talk to about my garden furniture project as it would help me alot with the research part of my coursework (and also it would look good in my portfolio). I would be very grateful for your help but dont worry if you havent got time. Thank you, Helen Allsopp

Posted by Helen Allsopp on 15/10/2009 13:27:25

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Hi Kevin, I am a huge fan and watch your show religously every week (although I am athiest) but there are one or two niggling aspects of your lingo which always seem to infuriate me. For years you have talked in imperial terms as if this great nation of ours was still trading in feet and inches. How so? I am thirty six and work for a large consulting engineers and find it difficult to comprehend how an architect can talk in engineering terms using those units. You also tend to use terms such as RSJ's when describing support steelwork. Is that because you are not au fait with up to date construction methods as you are always tavelling and programme making? If so then that is a fair trade. Finally, using the pejorative term Scotch surely isn't PC these days (unless you are out on the lash and getting stuck into a nice Scotch) a la last weeks show when talking about Lord Elgin's Scotch mansion. I know you may find this fairly pedantic, I hope so, but onwards and upwards eh?

Posted by Martin McNeill on 14/10/2009 15:52:16

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Hi Kevin, I'm an aspiring architectural photographer who would like to learn more about different architectural styles and architecture in general. If you have a couple of minutes just to give me some recommendations I'd be VERY grateful. Your Grand Tour was my TV highlight of the week - sad it's over but gives me more time to study architecture/ photography ;-) Many thanks in advance for your help.

Posted by Cliff Hobbs on 12/10/2009 13:51:01

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Hi We would love to invite Kevin to a Harris Tweed event in London on the 26th October 2009. Please could you let me know how we might best get this invitation to him. Many thanks Lorna

Posted by Lorna Macaulay on 12/10/2009 09:36:18

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Re:Grand Tour series...Like some of the others, I would love a list of the incidental music played on each episode,particularly the choral/opera piece in part 2. The series is brilliantly written and the music makes it. Kevin you're the best!

Posted by culture vulture on 01/10/2009 10:18:41

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I agree with Thierry. What music is played when you're in the Pantheon in Rome? Would be great to get a list of the music that's used in the series. Great show by the way!

Posted by Aidan on 29/09/2009 17:01:49

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Dear Kevin, and Grand Designs Crew: I sincerely hope that Kevin and Crew are able to read this post... I first found and started watching your program while in Kyrgyzstan, earlier this year (2009) with my Kyrgyz wife while waiting for a new contract to start up. I have intentions of building a "dream home" myself, in the US. I've already purchased truly "dream home" land, and watch your program intently, learning something new every show. Here's the interesting bit: My new contract is in Kuwait and I've been (physically) separated from my wife for over 6 months now while working here, awaiting her visa. Needless to say this can introduce a lot of stress between us, and in our daily lives. We miss each other quite a bit, of course. Amazingly, if I catch your show on TV it is almost as if I am back with her, watching the show like we did in the winter. Your show, your presentation style, all of it, just brings me back to all the great times we've had together and reduces my stress level tremendously. Thank you so much for your program, it's educational, engaging, and inspiring. Please keep up the good work, and know that you're doing more than just filming a "home building show." Steve

Posted by Steve Smith on 29/09/2009 09:35:04

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Dear Kevin, Would love to know which music is used for your Grand Tour programmes, as the ones used on serie 2 were wonderful. All the best

Posted by thierry t on 29/09/2009 09:04:54

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"Kevin McClous's Decorating Book" was my DIY bible long before I began enjoying "Grand Designs". Now I'm loving Kevin's "Grand Tour" too. Informative, inspiring, and often very, very amusing. Great entertainment! Thanks, Kevin.

Posted by Jane on 28/09/2009 17:03:44

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Dear Kevin, I have been very dissapointed with the sad state of wedding options that are available to modern society, I dont think people know the reasons behind many of the fomalities like when people broke the cake over the brides head to symbolize dominince over the bride, tied the knot etc etc... I am a big fan of druid folkloyre but am certainly not a (tree Hugger) hippie! I am also disappointed with the globalization of many international hotels in that there are so many cultural differences but the hotels are the same in most western societies. I would love to see a project where a hotel would be built around a concept of old irish dun (with a fada!!), a circular hall with a central fire spit, with an outer ring of rooms with maybe a couple of old irish thatched houses are interior modern suites - so we can represent oursleves as unique to the world. I am only an accountant with no design experience but hate the way hotels are generic these days and USA design is NOT the way to go!!! Back to the wedding concept, I want to see ribbons encircling our wrists in the old way and a spit with a cow and pig at the center of the celebration with big strong tables supporting clay pots of mead and wine as the central stage! Love your grand tour program but would love you to do a celtic re-enactment of the old celtic Fionn Mc Cumhaill style lyfestyle. Best, Dave

Posted by Dave Barry on 28/09/2009 00:06:45

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particulary enjoyed Grand tour in Rome, having been there many times it all now makes sense from your expert eye, i too share your fears of vertigo.As an artist i get excited with all of the works of the great artists of Rome although i paint Scottish mountains i like big and greatness and your programme got that accros, inspirational eep up the great work Kevin. Best wishes Gerry

Posted by gerry mc girr on 27/09/2009 22:01:40

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Kia Ora from New Zealand, must admit that i enjoy watching your program on tv. I have to admit that some people have no idea what they are getting them selves into! What, with not knowing what is involve in contruction, bylaws and materials tobe used. But at the end of it all, the end results speaks for itself. I have to say, things can be rather entertaining at times. Some of these homes are rather, well out of this world! I wonder doe's your program influence other people with idea's to incorperate into their own homes? Like to hear your thoughts to that? With reagards Rowan Murray.

Posted by Roawn Murray on 17/09/2009 22:26:27

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Congratulations to Kevin and all involved at Channel 4 on the continuing excellence of Grand Designs. It is the seminal television production of its kind (in my humble opinion!). I'd like to see a series produced here in Australia. As a builder and designer I watch each episode knowing that I will be entertained, informed and often vindicated! I love the wide variation of projects, designs and abilities. Some are awe inspiring. I encourage all of my clients to watch Grand Designs; it reinforces the reality of a major construction process, warts and all, that I try to describe to them. "Yes, there will probably be challenges and delays; once it's finished these will quickly recede into dim memory!" Grand Designs helps counter the must-have-it-now attitude that pervades contemporary society today. Great design and the masterful execution into a great house takes time, skill and money. My philosophy is that building is usually the biggest single investment people will make in their life: it needs to be done properly; maximising the quality, the liveability and increasingly, the sustainability of the house; all within a realistic budget. This is only achievable by investing time and resources into the design and planning process. Great design will pay for itself many times over in so many ways. Grand Designs advocates these values and Kevin convincingly communicates this with passion and authority. Bravo Grand Designs!

Posted by Simon Brooks on 15/09/2009 14:35:08

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Nant Gwrtheyrn in Gwynedd - a very special deserted village by the sea, now being restored as a focus for Welsh language and heritage. Rebirth of this lost village must surely appear on Grand Designs. It doesn`t get much grander than the restoration of a whole village in such a dramatic setting !

Posted by Dr. Carl Iwan Clowes on 08/09/2009 17:03:57

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Please Please Please can you ensure Kevin gets my email i want to be the first to invite him to our town in Lurgan Co Armagh i watched your series on the improvements of the town in which you and the program director/staff advertised for architects to compete to help bring the town alive Lurgan is a historical town but has been blighted by the troubles, unemployment, a high level of suicide and continuous free fall of the customers. Some say the extension of an out of town shopping centre was perhaps the last nail in the coffin. On a more postive note it has the largest park in Ireland outside of the Phoenix in Dublin, it is the historical birthplace of AE Russell (poet, artist etc), it has the Belgium quarter, Jewish Quarter, Master McGrath, Castle and many links to the famine and medical initiatives at this time. It was once a thriving marketing town and many of the old photographs show how beautiful this town really was. i know with your vision, initiative and contacts we can turn this negative situation into a positive one and i hope that you are your colleagues will see the potential and endless possiblities. i look forward to hearing from you yours gratefully! Jane Cairns

Posted by Jane Cairns on 04/09/2009 19:57:58

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Hi Kevin, I am originally from Shrewsbury, Shrops, and have worked in NZ & Australia. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching Grand Designs recently from outback Queensland where we only get rain November to March. How I long for the green,green grass of home ! The last programme we watched was a couple buildinga home from car tyres and glass bottles,I was with you most of the time regarding these items, but when I saw the completion of the home, I loved it, including the bottle windows and the niche's. We shall look forward to more of your programmes on the ABS next year. You are a wonderful presenter, honest and very down to earth. Bye for now, Brenda ex Shropshire lass.

Posted by Brittany on 25/08/2009 05:56:56

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I am the owner of a Holiday dwelling in the heart of the cheshire green belt.. and after 6 years of planning, have just been given full residential rights. The property is currently a one bedroomed bungalow and is set in approx 2 acres .. It is my intention to convert it into a 3 bed ultra modern house but in keeping with the surrounding area.. I am just in the process of having some design work done and wondered if this would be a project that you would like to have appear on Grand Designs.

Posted by Alan Scholes on 23/08/2009 11:12:07

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Hi Kevin, For us you are like one of the family, we have been watching Grand Designs since the late 90's and love it, your comments and love revisting all the episodes time after time (recently bought all the DVD's that are currently avaialble). One thing that has puzzled us for sometime is what ever happened to the Inverted-Roof House in Buckinghamshire, we have tried and tried but cannot locate a DVD series offering which includes either the orginal episode or the full-length follow-up (Revisit) that you did. Why does it appear that this episode from Series Three/Four has been removed from circulation. We love you style, keep up the great job and continue to entertain us with great houses and wonderful commentary. BTW will Grand Designs Abroad ever be seperately released. Cheers from Tasmania

Posted by The Bergs - Tasmania on 13/08/2009 02:17:58

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Hi Kevin I am amongst your legion of fans. You do a great job in presenting some of the finest houses I have ever seen. I first discovered you through your books on painted finishes, and thought you were pretty special and talented. I then found you again on Grand Designs and wondered,is there anything this man can't do. The series finished last week on ABC and I am going to miss you,I hope there is a new series coming up soon. Also the music in the finale and the English country side leaves me feeling quite nostalgic and sad as you walk away. I am from Yorkshire and I wish I was their at the moment,in the hope that maybe one day I would be privileged enough to meet you. Warm Regards Eileen

Posted by Eileen on 06/08/2009 12:16:01

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Hi Kevin. Great combination of design and entertainment. I'd like to add to the invitations to do an Aussie series or sell the concept to the ABC to commission a similar series? Be a big winner in the UK too - every second immigrant in OZ is from Britain these days.

Posted by Joybells on 04/08/2009 02:48:20

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Hi, Kevin - In Sweden, Grand Designs runs 3-5 years behind your schedule. Recently saw an episode where the builders ordered windows from Sweden that were delayed for months because the window-makers closed for summer holidays. This is SO Swedish. People should beware of ordering things from Swedish companies without checking about work schedules for the Swedish workers. I'm a US citizen living and working in Sweden until next year, and I see this all the time. I'm sending you a link to an article in English about Swedish working hours. My very best regards, Karyl Severson

Posted by Swedecakes on 03/08/2009 08:36:41

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kevin, i like nothing more these days than coming home from a hard days work and getting in amongst a bit of location location then a bit of grand designs, what a treat. never liked it before i owned a house, but now it's a fine show to enjoy.

Posted by steve macdonald on 29/07/2009 20:01:55

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HI Kevin, i dont normally follow tv programs untill i spotted your grand design progam which would have to be one of my favourate programs.i plan my week around grand design.the series has just finished on abc in australia this week which i am dissapointed with but hoping there will be a new series in the future.well done

Posted by paul hughes on 29/07/2009 03:27:32

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Dear Kevin, I think that your programme is one of the best on the television. Since i was inducted by a friend i just cant watch it. I normally reside in the UK but when i go abroad i jave found now way were i can watch full episodes. I would be interested to find out why the channel 4 website does not work from abroad do you know when this is going to be working. Is there any other way of accessing your programme from abroad. Mant thanks

Posted by tom on 25/07/2009 20:20:33

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I really enjoy watching Grand Designs, YOU add so much to the program with your witty comments and charm, not to mention your sense of humour! I can't imagine anyone doing the job half as well as you!

Posted by Iness on 25/07/2009 13:41:57

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Hi Kevin, I was watching one of your shows from back in 2003 or 2004 about these people who rebuilt restored a sandstone house in Scotland (Edinburgh) all by them selves I was very impressed. I saw that the man was disappointed with his sash windows and since I'm involved with the sash window business myself I think it would be a good thing to point out to the good people that if they had gotten the sash windows made the way they wanted (no horns) the windows would not be structurally sound. When you have 3mm single glaze it doesn't weigh very much and thus having no horns isn't a big issue but since they got their windows double glazed they had to have a horn on the end of the windows. That's my tuppence worth.

Posted by John Gormley on 22/07/2009 23:26:40

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Hi Kevin, what a terrific series! You make it easy to follow and understand & I especially love the up front computer gen graphics which make it easy to understand exactly what is about to be undertaken. You obviously know your stuff! Any plans to come down under? Aussie's could do with some help! Regards Sue

Posted by Sue Retter on 21/07/2009 14:52:17

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Dear Kevin, We have just started to see your program on the Australian ABC and I and my wife find it interesting. The only thing that spoils it for us is that the people building the homes are very coy about the costings. I think personally that it should be mandatory that some idea of costing should be shown as it's an essential part of any building project. We have just seen the Welsh Folly episode and wondered if you could advise your educated guess on the final overall cost please as the furnishings alone would have cost a heap.Also what was the price of the original tower and how much land was included in the price. These kind of facts would make it more interesting The one before where the guy had to stabilise the decaying factory building was clearly finished way over his original estimate although he said only 15% Kind regards Dennis

Posted by Dennis Whelan on 01/07/2009 02:00:57

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Your programmes on Disco travel and living entertain my friend ian and i most nights, re what and not to do. we really think a special in Dubai could show the ultimate extremes of vvv bad and vvv good. keep up the good work

Posted by matthew in dubai on 30/06/2009 17:40:10

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Dear Kevin, I was present at your recent meeting in Swindon concerning your housing proposals. As a sales manager for the commercial division of Porcelanosa, I would very much like to discuss our product range with yourself. Kind Regards Chris Eades

Posted by Swindon Developments on 24/06/2009 10:03:43

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Kevin, thank you very much for such an entertaining and informative programme. I live in Australia but appreciate the variances of European architecture and climate. Are there any plans for series outside of Europe? It is good to see someone so passionate about their chosen field

Posted by Kathy on 23/06/2009 16:38:02

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My property in Abruzzo was seriously damaged by the recent earthquake, would you be interested in following all the steps from saving it from collapsing to restructuring it? At the moment the municipality is in charge of making sure it does not collapse and soon will put special scaffolding all around it.

Posted by Antonella Arista on 21/06/2009 09:50:05

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I am about to embark on an exciting new build that you may be interested in. A state of the art boat club with a suspended rowing tank on the first floor

Posted by Alastair on 18/06/2009 11:27:44

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Hi Kevin, my name is Sean. I think Grand Designs is one of the best programmes on housing design. You make architecture very interesting and easy to understand. Be great if you could do some programmes on commerical buildings, offices etc. Regards Sean

Posted by Sean Lorinyenko on 07/06/2009 17:59:43

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Hi Kevin! I live in the South of Russia and I watching Grand Disigns every day. You are amaizing TV presenter I am delighted with you! And of couse I would like to know have you ever been in Russia and what you think about our architecture?

Posted by Irina on 26/05/2009 08:51:43

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i am a town planner in Melbourne Australia and i am thoroughly frustrated with the poor quality of contemporary housing and commercial architecture. Where gains are achieved in the inner city, the suburbs fall yet further behind. We need a revolution driven by exposure to alternate forms of design which can only happen through the media. We need grand designs in Australia!!! please please bring it here!

Posted by Andy Fergus on 17/05/2009 10:45:56

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Dear Kevin, I try my best English , because I be a Dutchman. I look your progam everyday en with many intress. But my question is , what in YOUR mind the most beautiful house its make in your progam. And ofcourse the most bad house too !! I be very currious about this. I wish you very good time. Greets , Jos from Holland

Posted by Jos van Gogh on 16/05/2009 08:20:15

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Kevin, I love your programme and you are gorgeous and sexy with it, those guys are so flirty, I've sky plus all your programmes just to look at you wend

Posted by wendy adams on 13/05/2009 22:38:56

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Dear Mr Mc Cloud Your show has given me inspiration and the "push" to start building my own house. Most importantly it has taught me to be patient and calm (as much as possible) when things dont go as planned. Your presentation of so many couples that have been through so much in search for new techniques and ideas has brought us inspiration and more dedication to our built. If you ever choose to visit sunny cyprus please contact us and we will be happy to either accomodate you, introduce you to well known architects, take you out for Greek Meze or ... all of the above! Hope that you continue to present such beautiful projects in your special way. Katerina and Alex

Posted by katerina demetriou on 12/05/2009 10:50:14

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I am happy only when I look to your show becouse I see that you promote only true value of architecture and "green life". Happy birthday to you !!

Posted by gianina from romania on 07/05/2009 18:49:51

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I am happy only when I look to your show becouse I see that you promote only true value of architecture and "green life". Happy birthday to you !!

Posted by gianina from romania on 07/05/2009 18:46:45

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Never ever have I seen a more absorbing and delicious program like the Grand design. Can I talk to you Colin please. Regards, Prof Naeem Khattak

Posted by Naeem Khattak on 06/05/2009 07:36:33

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please could you tell me if the cruiform house project you covered is in one of your publications? I do not wish to have a dvd thank you. Kind Regards Nigel Kaye Warwickshire.

Posted by NIGEL KAYE on 03/05/2009 18:02:26

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Having watched many of the Grand designs programmes, and being interested in Solar Power, it would appear to me that this programme would be ideal to promote the feasibility of using Photovoltaic collectors in the format of your Grand Designs programme. Peter Finney.

Posted by Peter Finney on 30/04/2009 15:30:47

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Recently I have had to replace 9 large double-glazed panes of glass at considerable expense. This is not good for my pocket or the environment. Many of the houses on the Grand Designs programme have huge amounts of double glazing - are the owners not storing up a great of trouble for themselves after about 10 years?

Posted by les on 29/04/2009 16:34:31

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Just watched the programme wher the house was placed on the side of a loch. Where did you get that hat. Loved it!

Posted by Ian on 26/04/2009 22:39:16

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Have you seen this Huf House for sale in Sandbanks? www.hufhaus.org.uk It looks amazing, I just wish I had the money....

Posted by Richard on 24/04/2009 20:52:39

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Always see the old shows, I mean, fantastic, but the best part is always at the end, when Kevin ties off the house with a brief almost, poetical terminology. Great! Everyone should learn from you!

Posted by Tim on 24/04/2009 20:11:43

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Are you married? as i think that you are absolutley gorgeous, witty, humerous, handsome, and if there is a Mrs McCloud what a lucky lady. Lisa Peterson. Sussex

Posted by lisa Peterson on 22/04/2009 21:38:21

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Your show is great! I watch it in New Zealand and can't wait for each episode every week. I think we're a few years behind you but I have learnt so much about building houses. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Kevin's way with words - especially when he breaks into french or Italian! :o)

Posted by Samantha Herman on 14/04/2009 00:03:40

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I am interested in the HAB project, I have written to the PM on how to build an ECO City and Eco culture, but the project is scaled down to small villages extensions whix in my opinion will not work properly, an ECO city will have everything a citizen needs

Posted by Henry Gilbert on 08/04/2009 10:45:24

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For me there is NO other TV program to watch. I am retired (67) and have been so inspired by 'Kev'and the program, that I have applied as a mature student and been offered a place at U of Portsmouth's School of Architecture. (which I have accepted). So move over Sir Richard! (joke)

Posted by Robert L W Hamon on 07/04/2009 10:21:05

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Love the show, but love the Free Tibet hat just a bit more. Tell me where to buy one!

Posted by Hanks on 27/03/2009 23:34:28

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We love your programme, you make it so interesting. We have bought a ruin in North Cyprus (owned by a Brit.before l974!!) it is in a wonderful location with an amazing sea view in a village called Lapta (Lapithos) in greek times we would love you to come and have a look.

Posted by Kevin McCloud on 26/03/2009 14:27:41

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As an artist and art therapist I am interested in all interpretations of the aesthetic application and in no less a manner that of architecture and how people extend their sense of personal identity into making their own home. As an anglo-australian I am very interested in seeing grand designs make its way down under. Regards, Andrea

Posted by Andrea Hulmes on 26/03/2009 09:36:11

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I've followed the series for years and spent many lunch breaks sharing opinions with friends on previous episodes. I would love to buy the DVD's but can only find season for in Australia. Any suggestions?

Posted by Romana on 22/03/2009 00:45:21

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I love the Grand Designs programmes BUT... how few ever get round to having curtains at the windows! Bedrooms, bathrooms - open for all the world to see in..... In fact, there seems to be a general lack of soft furnishings. Can Kevin tell us if, after the programme is over, the owners ever hang curtains, blinds or whatever? I'm intrigued by this common omission

Posted by Andrew Cwmbran on 18/03/2009 22:07:31

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superb programme,we are thinking of a self build project so find kevin,s points of view very informative. ps where did kevin get his parka jacket from,i have sold the car and bought a vespa to suit my new greener image!!!

Posted by n collison on 12/03/2009 16:56:16

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Hi there, absolutely love Grand Designs but can you answer a quick and possibly silly question? when people have living areas with double/full height ceilings (ie barn conversions etc) how do they change the lightbulbs?

Posted by Linda on 10/03/2009 20:06:52

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I recently emigrated to Red Deer, Alberta a wonderful city of 90,000 halfway between Edmonton & Calgary. Although I love my new home town I am shocked to learn that they plan to demolish the only remaining 19th century building, The Arlington Hotel (built 1899). This building is on the corner of downtown in a very prominant spot and is structurally sound. The inital plans for the site are to level the building and use it as a street level car park for a few years and wait to see if any developers express an interest. I work as a economic development officer for a local engineering firm and i know this building can be saved and restored, and actually be the cornerstone of some much needed downtown revitalisation. My problem is we don't get to see amazing shows such as Grand Designs out here, and the attitude is still very much the Northern American...knock it down and replace it with a Walmart! I don't really know what I'm asking for, i suppose any help is greatly appreciated, I just know of so many companies like Urban Splash back in the UK who could do such wonderful things with this vital piece of local history. I just think it will be a crying shame to see this building demolished, with it goes the last link to the pioneer days of Red Deer.

Posted by Matt Cornall on 07/03/2009 06:05:46

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Born and raised in Britain, my husband and I now live in South Africa. We have bought a unique plot of land in a beautiful location where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet; on the outskirts of Cape Town, the so-called ‘Mother City’ of South Africa. We intend to build a house on the plot, starting August 2009 with a time frame of just 9 months. We would love to send you some photographs of the view from our future house and of the plot of land on which it will be built. The plot has a beautiful view onto the ocean. However, since it is on a steep hillside, the design by a local architect and the building will undoubtedly prove to be a challenge. Our budget is tight at: Plot of land: USD 150,000 (paid) Building: USD 200,000 (to be paid in stages) However, here in South Africa, we believe that we can realise our dream house with architectural brilliance, within this budget and finish it before the beginning of the Soccer World Cup in 2010. Not only that. We have in mind a design that is appropriate to its surroundings. Its setting being a beautiful hillside bordering a nature reserve. No houses will be built beyond ours. One problem that we are facing is that the house has to be %u201CBaboon-proof%u201D. These creatures (oversized monkeys) are clever, as they enter houses through tiny openings, such as latched kitchen windows. Garbage bins have padlocks on them, in an attempt to outsmart them, with limited success. We have identified a local Architect, who shares our vision of building with full consideration of the setting, local environment, closeness to a nature reserve and energy-friendliness. Hot water solar panels will be an integral part of the energy provision for the house. My husband, who is an Engineer, will act as Project Leader, while I continue my busy job with UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund. We look forward to your reaction and would love to supply you with additional information as to our suitability for consideration for the BBC Programme %u201CGrand Design%u201D. Greetings from sunny South Africa, Catherine Remmelzwaal Cape Town

Posted by Catherine Remmelzwaal on 05/03/2009 17:05:19

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Hello Channel4, my boyfriend is a massive fan of Kevin McCloud. He is an engineer specialising in renewable energy. I've worked with James (my boyfriend) for 3 years and we became a couple on valentines day this year. I was hoping to do something special for him, as he is such an unbelievable good person. I know his dream would be to meet Kevin. Is their anyway in which you could make this possible? I would really appreciate any help you can give me. C.

Posted by Circean on 04/03/2009 10:12:30

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Hi Kevin, i also went onto channel4.com/takepart but couldnt find a page for grand designs. Is there another link that i can go to to apply for grand designs?? I have a friend who is about to turn their house green and when i suggested Grand designs they asked me to do some research. Many thanks Laura

Posted by Laura Folkes on 03/03/2009 14:36:57

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Hi Kevin, I met you briefly at Grand designs in Birmingham. Thank you for keeping us entertained with your dry sense of humour and your sarcasm. You always put a smile on my face. Love from Rachel xxx

Posted by Rachel on 27/02/2009 22:11:48

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Hi Kevin, Great programme - We live in an old Hall and have an 11th Century Undercroft and are about to start renovation and extension works to our house. I went to channel4.com/takepart as suggested at the end of your show and there is no option to 'apply' for Grand Designs - Can you help? many thanks Rebecca

Posted by Rebecca Hughes on 23/02/2009 12:18:55

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Hi Kevin. Great programme. However, the cost of builds as stated by clients on the programme is extremely misleading although it is appreciated that perhaps people do not wish to disclose the true amount they have spent, even with your prompting. We speak from experience since we are in the throes of having a modern comprenhensive extension to a turn of the century house on a hillside in the Dorset countryside. The position and complexity of the build has made us most aware of the cost of serious groundwork and the cost of glazing systems and it is rather frustrating to hear such silly sums quoted. We are using a very good architect who has produced a very innovative design which is being built by a very respected local building company. We are working to a very tight budget. So far all is going very well. Keen to hear your comments on budgets and costing issues which I'm sure a ot of people watching this programme will be very interested in. Peter & Sylvia lee

Posted by Peter J Lee on 22/02/2009 20:56:50

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Hi Kevin, We think your show is fantastic, the best programme on TV in a long, long time, we never tire of watching Grand Designs and having you as the presenter brings so much life, joy & humour to the show, you are indeed very talented and you make Grand Designs what it is today. Especially like all the eco house/designs! Keep up the great, inspiring work Kevin! Stu & Carmen

Posted by Stuart Pettipher on 20/02/2009 23:48:30

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Hi, Love your programme. Trying to start a project but up against Building Warrant and Architects taking forever. Is six months a reasonable time for Building Warrant to make a decision, going into our seventh month any advice you can give ? Architects blaming Council for delay.

Posted by Donna on 20/02/2009 21:11:56

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Undershaw, at Hindhead nr Haslemere (Surrey /Hants/West Sussex borders)former home of Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle is again under threat from developers for conversion to housing. Attempts to find a buyer for hotel use (its present perrmited use) have not had the publicity required. Any ideas Kevin? Very grateful for any advice Robert

Posted by Robert Serman on 20/02/2009 11:51:21

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Hello! Just to say I really enjoy Grand Designs and think your a great presenter!!! One thing that I do when watching it guess how long before the women becomes pregnant. Recently I have only seen one program where the featured family isn't expecting a new baby. I mean what is the link with babies and building a house?? What do you think? Daniel

Posted by Daniel Osborne on 18/02/2009 22:06:35

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Hi Kevin My wife and i have been watching grand designs from the start great show ,love your ability to make models (of any material)of houses to demostrate structures. I am machine shop manager at James Purdey &sons in Hammersmith london. I know you are busy ,however if you could make time i would love you to visit our factory/shop ,i am convinced you would apprieciate the craftsmanship still avaliable to view. The tour would only take up a morning or so ,it would be great if you could find time at some stage . Ian Clarke

Posted by IAN CLARKE on 17/02/2009 13:49:25

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Hello, Kevin (or his colleauge) First of all: Thank you for an excellent programseries. It`s very inspiring for us in our property developing business. I wonder it You can help me with one detail: In one program, I think it was one of yours, I saw a double layer white curtain (I don`t know the material) that allowed daylight enlighten the room at the same time as it made an insulating layer. I`m very interested in getting to know this product better.

Posted by Yngve Bruksaas on 11/02/2009 12:29:34

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Hi, great show, how do i notify you of a project i am undertaking and you may be interested in featuring?

Posted by Sandy on 05/02/2009 06:06:54

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We, my wife and I, are looking with much plaesure to your program on our TV channel SBS 6 and enjoy your comment. I hope you understand what I mean,I think it is your program GRAND designs, we are old DUTCH PEOPLE, AND ENJOY your program, Greetings from Badhoevedorp, Holland.

Posted by H.Bouwknegt on 04/02/2009 13:32:32

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Love the show, but a question I have been dying to ask - With only a few exceptions, why don't any of the grand designs have blinds or curtains in their windows?

Posted by Lesley on 01/02/2009 12:10:23

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Having been an avid watcher of "Grand Designs" I was disappointed when the series finished. Being a fan of the 'Ben Law" segment I hope that the new series will have episodes similar to that. Well done Kevin for your entertaining style of presentation. I look forward with much eagerness to the next series. I just hope that our Australian ABC picks it up with no delays. cheers Prue B

Posted by prue from Tasmania on 31/01/2009 23:17:39

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The only reason why I turn on the TV

Posted by Stefano on 22/01/2009 18:09:40

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I am a soon to be self builder, inspired by many epiodes of Grand Designs, my Husband and I are about to embark on our build, however, my Husbandn is now working away from home, leaving me in control of the whole project. I am daunted by takling this on my own. Do you have any advice to help me acheive our dream?

Posted by Gilly on 21/01/2009 23:01:08

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I am severly asthmatic and trying to find an affordable clean energy source. Have discovered Finnovens. Would they be suitable for asthmatics? How many particulates are released during cleaning? Could we build one ourselves?

Posted by sue shaw on 03/01/2009 09:34:21

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Dear Kevin My friend and myself are both Occupational Therapy students studying at Oxford Brookes University. We are due to finish our degrees in 2010, and then we are going to climb to the base camp of Everest. My friend lost her father last year due to a brain injury, and i have just lost a friend from cancer. We are going to raise money for the charities 'Headway' and 'Breast cancer'. We are wanting to raise as much money as possible, doing many different fundraising activities. One of our ideas is to put together a recipe book made of peoples family favourite dishes, using the name that their family give the dish. An example of this is 'Rot -your -Socks' which in my family is a stew, as my Grandad use to say "its so good it will rot your socks". All money made will go to the mentioned charities. Would it be possible for you to send a recipe that is signed, and have your permission to put it in the book. Any other help you are able to give would be gratefully received. Best wishes and keep up the good work. Debbie Greenslade and Rhea Draguisky

Posted by Debbie Greenslade on 12/12/2008 20:30:41

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Grand Designs Extras Kevin McCloud Biography

5. Kevin McCloud

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