0:00:02 > 0:00:04Across the nation, our homes are too small...
0:00:04 > 0:00:07I can't find space to put my dishes on.
0:00:07 > 0:00:08..too dark...
0:00:08 > 0:00:11It doesn't feel very happy and relaxing.
0:00:11 > 0:00:13..and don't fit our needs.
0:00:13 > 0:00:17The only time we have enough space is when we eat outside.
0:00:17 > 0:00:19'I'm Piers Taylor
0:00:19 > 0:00:26'and I've hand-picked a team a of experts to transform ordinary people's homes.
0:00:26 > 0:00:27'From bold changes...'
0:00:27 > 0:00:29So this is really expensive.
0:00:29 > 0:00:31You're going to do something that costs a lot less.
0:00:31 > 0:00:36'..to stunning interior ideas and finishing touches.'
0:00:36 > 0:00:37I love this.
0:00:37 > 0:00:40- Ah, straight into it. - This is beautiful.
0:00:40 > 0:00:44Together, we'll expand the micro-budget ideas from The House That 100K Built
0:00:44 > 0:00:49to show you what's possible in any home...
0:00:49 > 0:00:51Why didn't we think of that?
0:00:51 > 0:00:52..and on any budget.
0:00:52 > 0:00:54This is really simple.
0:00:54 > 0:00:57This is not designer shelving.
0:00:57 > 0:00:59'We'll need every trick of the trade,
0:00:59 > 0:01:02'whether we're designing furniture...'
0:01:02 > 0:01:04All of that is really just five long scaffold boards.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08'..to choosing the right paint to go on the walls...'
0:01:08 > 0:01:12But if it's dark and outside it's bright, it will reflect the outside.
0:01:12 > 0:01:15'..to prove a limit on your funds...'
0:01:15 > 0:01:17You know, this stuff's free.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19'..does not mean a limit on your dreams.
0:01:19 > 0:01:21This is amazing. I mean, really amazing.
0:01:23 > 0:01:27This time, I'm faced with an exceptional challenge.
0:01:27 > 0:01:32A disastrous extension that's already defeated its owners.
0:01:32 > 0:01:35We've just gone stagnant. We're stuck.
0:01:35 > 0:01:38'But will they be willing to take a punt on alternative ideas
0:01:38 > 0:01:41'that you won't find on the high street?'
0:01:41 > 0:01:44- So what do you reckon? - Looks too plain.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48'Meanwhile, change is long overdue for this dilapidated
0:01:48 > 0:01:50'and claustrophobic flat.'
0:01:50 > 0:01:52It's very challenging to live in house that doesn't fit.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56Can it be turned into a spacious and serene family home?
0:01:56 > 0:01:59There could be some bad news to be delivered here.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15Our first couple this week, Jaimelee and her partner, Lee,
0:02:15 > 0:02:19bought their three-bed semi in Sutton Coldfield in 2011,
0:02:19 > 0:02:22with plans to turn it into a spacious family home.
0:02:24 > 0:02:25The layout didn't work.
0:02:25 > 0:02:29We didn't use a lot of rooms, like, we didn't use the back living room.
0:02:29 > 0:02:32Everywhere you went there was like a wall in the way.
0:02:33 > 0:02:37Lee's a builder by trade, so he did have the skills to rip out walls
0:02:37 > 0:02:41and build a large extension on the back, but he didn't have a plan.
0:02:41 > 0:02:46We've never had really a vision to do what we are doing.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48We're just kind of improvising as we go along.
0:02:49 > 0:02:51Sometimes I wish I hadn't started.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55But now we've got to the stage where I've, you know, I've gone too far.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58Two years since work began, the family are trapped,
0:02:58 > 0:03:00living in a building site.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03- Just a total struggle, isn't it?- Mm.
0:03:03 > 0:03:06We haven't got a cooker, we've got a microwave and a toaster.
0:03:06 > 0:03:08- An outside tap. - SHE LAUGHS
0:03:08 > 0:03:11The kids just wants to run around, enjoy themselves,
0:03:11 > 0:03:14but it's difficult on a building site, really.
0:03:14 > 0:03:16We've just gone stagnant.
0:03:17 > 0:03:18We're stuck.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28I'm on my way to meet Jaimelee and Lee and the biggest surprise
0:03:28 > 0:03:32for me is that Lee has started major structural work
0:03:32 > 0:03:36without any clear idea around what this extension is going to be like.
0:03:37 > 0:03:41The very first rule when designing your home is to consider how
0:03:41 > 0:03:45you're going to use the space, long before you start changing it.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48- Hello.- Hi, Jaimelee. Nice to meet you.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51Ignore this and you could end up with badly planned spaces
0:03:51 > 0:03:53that don't suit how you want to live.
0:03:54 > 0:03:55- This is it?- Yeah.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58So tell me what you're struggling with here.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01We're struggling with the layout.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04Wouldn't you work that out before you build an extension, typically?
0:04:04 > 0:04:07Um, We've never really known what we wanted to do.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12Tell me, what in your mind are you planning to use this for?
0:04:12 > 0:04:15Somewhere for the kids to be while we're cooking and...
0:04:15 > 0:04:18- And where does your kitchen table go?- I don't want a table.
0:04:18 > 0:04:19Because to me,
0:04:19 > 0:04:24you have a table and you end up just putting clothes on it or junk.
0:04:24 > 0:04:27I think the modern way today, I would say
0:04:27 > 0:04:31a lot of people eat while watching telly or talking, sitting on the sofa.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34Jaime, do you feed your kids on their laps in front of the telly?
0:04:34 > 0:04:36- No.- Right.
0:04:36 > 0:04:40- I don't want the kitchen...- So there's already some big difference
0:04:40 > 0:04:43of opinion about something pretty small, which is a dining table.
0:04:47 > 0:04:49I think the biggest surprise for me
0:04:49 > 0:04:52is that they don't really know how they want to live.
0:04:52 > 0:04:55It's all chaotic and up for grabs.
0:04:55 > 0:04:57There's nothing to start building anything from.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01I need to help them with everything here,
0:05:01 > 0:05:05from structural moves to exterior cladding and final finishes.
0:05:05 > 0:05:08But after years of unfocused spending,
0:05:08 > 0:05:11they've not got a lot left to fix the house.
0:05:11 > 0:05:15So far, we've spent around the £20,000 mark.
0:05:15 > 0:05:20Realistically, I'd say about 10,000 to finish the extension.
0:05:21 > 0:05:25But they're able to spend more if it gives them what they want.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28If you leave it too long, the kids will have grown up
0:05:28 > 0:05:30and we're still living in a shell.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33If you want to create a home that suits your family,
0:05:33 > 0:05:35you need to agree on some common ground.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39So I've got a test to flush out the real priorities.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43The pair of you aren't quite singing from the same sheet,
0:05:43 > 0:05:45so here's a little bit of paper.
0:05:45 > 0:05:49Could you just write down for me here, 1-100, how important is it
0:05:49 > 0:05:53that you have a table where you can get six chairs around?
0:05:53 > 0:05:54OK.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02- What do you think that Jaime has written?- 90% or 100%.- OK.
0:06:02 > 0:06:07- And what do you think...?- It'll be 38% or something like that. - That's really not bad.
0:06:07 > 0:06:10- That really isn't bad. So, 28, actually.- Oh.
0:06:10 > 0:06:12Even lower. And 100.
0:06:12 > 0:06:17- If I was dead against it, my answer to that would be zero.- Yeah, OK.
0:06:17 > 0:06:22- So I haven't necessarily got a problem having an area.- Sure.
0:06:22 > 0:06:25- It's what happens to the other things you need?- Yes.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29I want a beautiful kitchen, nice big space, got somewhere really nice
0:06:29 > 0:06:32and cosy to sit, but we've got the great views in the summer
0:06:32 > 0:06:33when we open the doors.
0:06:33 > 0:06:38That's a lot clearer and easier for me to understand.
0:06:38 > 0:06:42You clearly need a kitchen table but sounds like, Lee, you don't
0:06:42 > 0:06:44want it to dominate the rest of the house.
0:06:44 > 0:06:48And I think you need to be quite bold in order to get this to work,
0:06:48 > 0:06:49and if you're not bold,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52I think you'll end up living in what feels like a compromise.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59Making an open-plan layout work is actually one of the hardest
0:06:59 > 0:07:02design challenges to get right.
0:07:02 > 0:07:06The first job here is to start making this space fit their needs.
0:07:06 > 0:07:09I think the key is to create three distinct areas
0:07:09 > 0:07:12for cooking, dining and relaxing.
0:07:12 > 0:07:15To make the most of the area at the back of the house,
0:07:15 > 0:07:18I think they should square off this porch and utility room.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21This would give them a spacious kitchen with an island
0:07:21 > 0:07:24and that all-important family table.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26To make this more than just a dumping ground,
0:07:26 > 0:07:29the table must become the heart of their home,
0:07:29 > 0:07:32a special place the family won't want to leave.
0:07:32 > 0:07:35And the naturally darker section in the middle of the house
0:07:35 > 0:07:39should become an intimate snug, centred around a fireplace.
0:07:39 > 0:07:41But to achieve all this,
0:07:41 > 0:07:45Lee will need to unpick two years of big structural changes.
0:07:47 > 0:07:50Tell me what you think about doing that?
0:07:50 > 0:07:53Just flows more. It works.
0:07:53 > 0:07:57I can see it working, it's now me trying to...
0:07:57 > 0:08:00- Build it.- Yeah.- OK.
0:08:01 > 0:08:05- No pressure then.- So you want me to alter...- Hang on, hang on.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08I think that Jaime wants you to alter...
0:08:08 > 0:08:12I want you to stop looking at it and thinking, "Oh, the work."
0:08:12 > 0:08:15Yeah, OK, honestly, I do look at it and think,
0:08:15 > 0:08:17"Well, there's quite a bit there."
0:08:17 > 0:08:21- But it's weeks of hell for 40 years of gain.- Yeah.
0:08:22 > 0:08:25'Indecision has plagued this build.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29'I only hope I've given them enough focus to realise there's
0:08:29 > 0:08:31'an incredible family home within their reach.'
0:08:38 > 0:08:42Just four days later, the build gets under way.
0:08:42 > 0:08:46Lee starts by constructing a wall to square off the back of the house.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49Any significant work that we do to our homes must be approved
0:08:49 > 0:08:52and signed off by Building Control.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54I need to kind of build up the wall,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57and once that's kind of done, I can concentrate on taking
0:08:57 > 0:09:01walls down inside to open up into this space.
0:09:01 > 0:09:03But as I've only got the weekends to work on it,
0:09:03 > 0:09:05just a Sunday, really,
0:09:05 > 0:09:08then I'm going as much as I can in the time I've got.
0:09:10 > 0:09:12This is all familiar territory for Lee,
0:09:12 > 0:09:15but I want to push him on the interior design
0:09:15 > 0:09:17and I've got a building in mind that is packed full
0:09:17 > 0:09:19of extraordinary ideas.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27As your life changes, your needs evolve
0:09:27 > 0:09:30and family space becomes really important.
0:09:30 > 0:09:32But when you're designing a family space,
0:09:32 > 0:09:35often there are conflicting needs and conflicting pressures.
0:09:35 > 0:09:39Jaimelee and Lee aren't the only people feeling that pressure.
0:09:40 > 0:09:45In north-west London, civil servant Suzanne is desperate for change.
0:09:45 > 0:09:48Life in her flat with husband, sales advisor Antonio
0:09:48 > 0:09:51and two-year-old daughter Sophia, is tough.
0:09:52 > 0:09:55When I moved in here, it was a bachelorette pad.
0:09:55 > 0:10:00As our relationship progressed, we started living together.
0:10:00 > 0:10:01Sophia...
0:10:01 > 0:10:09Then, I suddenly realised that the flat was great for me,
0:10:09 > 0:10:13but might not be great when I'm looking to build that family.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18It's very challenging to live in a house that doesn't fit.
0:10:20 > 0:10:22All the rooms come off one corridor.
0:10:22 > 0:10:26So the first problem is that Suzanne can't keep an eye on her daughter.
0:10:28 > 0:10:32I would love to be able to be in the kitchen and still see Sophia
0:10:32 > 0:10:34if she's playing in the lounge.
0:10:35 > 0:10:39It's making the day to day running of the home more cumbersome,
0:10:39 > 0:10:42because I've always got to check on Sophia.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45Next is the small, dilapidated bathroom.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49The bathroom, at the moment, is not working for us.
0:10:49 > 0:10:53It's not practical for our way of life.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56I believe my wife would like to have a space
0:10:56 > 0:11:00where she could actually get a little bit of pampering.
0:11:01 > 0:11:04In desperation, they brought a bath months ago.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08But Suzanne and Antonio can't agree on a new layout.
0:11:08 > 0:11:10So it's abandoned in Sophia's bedroom.
0:11:12 > 0:11:13SHE LAUGHS
0:11:13 > 0:11:15Look at it! It's not practical.
0:11:15 > 0:11:20I mean, I justify it because it's temporary.
0:11:20 > 0:11:21But it's awkward.
0:11:21 > 0:11:22Beyond awkward.
0:11:27 > 0:11:31Helping me transform these homes are my hand-picked team of architects.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34Each challenged to create extraordinary spaces
0:11:34 > 0:11:36with ordinary budgets.
0:11:37 > 0:11:41And taking on the challenge of Suzanne and Antonio's flat
0:11:41 > 0:11:42is Gurmeet Sian.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48- Hi, I'm Gurmeet.- How are you doing? Nice to meet you.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50- Hello.- Antonio. My wife, Suzanne.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53- Suzanne, lovely to meet you. I'm Gurmeet.- Thanks for coming.
0:11:53 > 0:11:54Great to be here.
0:11:54 > 0:11:55Show me around.
0:11:58 > 0:11:59- Yes.- Wow.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01So, this is the bathroom that we need to do.
0:12:01 > 0:12:03It's a tight space, yes.
0:12:03 > 0:12:06I'm quite surprised how small it is.
0:12:06 > 0:12:10There's exposed pipework here and you want to sort that out.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15Messy exposed pipes and a grid of tiles on the walls and floor
0:12:15 > 0:12:18make it feel smaller, as does poor lighting.
0:12:18 > 0:12:21Bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house,
0:12:21 > 0:12:25and Gurmeet will need to find tricks to make this feel bigger.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28What kind of space do you want this to be for you?
0:12:28 > 0:12:33I want to feel relaxed, chilled, calm, serene.
0:12:33 > 0:12:37Sophia needs a bath and I want this to be a pampering space.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39I want this to be...
0:12:39 > 0:12:44- It's going to be your special spiritual temple to Suzanne.- Yeah!
0:12:44 > 0:12:46But to make this a relaxing haven,
0:12:46 > 0:12:50Gurmeet needs to find enough space for a bath in this tiny room.
0:12:50 > 0:12:54The next problem to tackle is the flat layout.
0:12:54 > 0:12:58It's strange, because it's actually a really generously sized flat.
0:12:58 > 0:13:00And you have a really nice corridor.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03But because there's no relationship in terms of views
0:13:03 > 0:13:04or line of sight,
0:13:04 > 0:13:07it makes the flat look a little bit smaller than what it is.
0:13:07 > 0:13:11So the challenge is trying to work out where we can find little areas
0:13:11 > 0:13:14where we can get a glimpse of something else.
0:13:15 > 0:13:20They have £10,000 in savings to make this flat work for the family.
0:13:20 > 0:13:21But how do you make it feel bigger
0:13:21 > 0:13:24when you can't extend in any direction?
0:13:24 > 0:13:28Gurmeet needs to look at everything, from the furniture...
0:13:28 > 0:13:31These settees are dominating this is based.
0:13:31 > 0:13:32..to hidden corners.
0:13:32 > 0:13:33Oh, my word!
0:13:33 > 0:13:37We need to bring this cupboard back into the life of the flat.
0:13:37 > 0:13:40As one of London's most exciting young architects,
0:13:40 > 0:13:44Gurmeet is well placed to make the most out of small spaces.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46But this is an extremely tight budget.
0:13:48 > 0:13:51Any home renovation gets expensive quick.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54But Suzanne and Antonio may have already wasted money.
0:13:54 > 0:13:58Just my own mind, how long this bath is...
0:13:59 > 0:14:02I don't think it's going to fit.
0:14:02 > 0:14:03Moment of truth.
0:14:05 > 0:14:06Ah.
0:14:06 > 0:14:09There could be some bad news to be delivered here.
0:14:11 > 0:14:16The one thing that really struck me is how the bath is currently here,
0:14:16 > 0:14:20and the idea is to get it into this room now.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23Now, I know that that bath doesn't fit into that room at the moment.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25Right.
0:14:25 > 0:14:27Which I know you perhaps don't want to hear.
0:14:27 > 0:14:30No. I'm sorry!
0:14:30 > 0:14:33Did you measure?
0:14:33 > 0:14:35We'll have to dig in a little bit into the wall.
0:14:35 > 0:14:40You may have to dig in a little bit more than you think into the wall.
0:14:40 > 0:14:46I think that a potential for this bathroom to become the luxury room
0:14:46 > 0:14:51that you dream of is to make this storeroom part of this bathroom,
0:14:51 > 0:14:53as in make this bathroom bigger.
0:14:53 > 0:14:54OK.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56This is actually opening new horizons.
0:14:56 > 0:14:57That's great news, though.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00Yeah, it's sounding good to me.
0:15:00 > 0:15:04Knocking through to the cupboard will almost double the size
0:15:04 > 0:15:07of the bathroom, allowing the bath to fit underneath the window.
0:15:08 > 0:15:11Bringing more light into any space will help it feel bigger,
0:15:11 > 0:15:14so Gurmeet suggests replacing the cupboard door with a window,
0:15:14 > 0:15:17improving the bathroom AND the dark hallway.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20His next idea is a bold one.
0:15:20 > 0:15:26We can have some kind of opening between this kitchen
0:15:26 > 0:15:30and this wall, so that not only can you see from room to room,
0:15:30 > 0:15:32but actually, when you're stood here,
0:15:32 > 0:15:35you'll get a glimpse all the way through that kitchen window,
0:15:35 > 0:15:38which is quite a powerful vision, actually.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40I'm seeing that working, actually.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44- Yeah.- Look at your face! You're excited about that!
0:15:45 > 0:15:49The kitchen hatch is an idea that has fallen out of fashion,
0:15:49 > 0:15:52but it could transform this flat.
0:15:52 > 0:15:54I don't suggest that this becomes a place that
0:15:54 > 0:15:56you can actually walk through.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58I can picture it, it'd be lovely.
0:15:58 > 0:15:59Um...
0:15:59 > 0:16:03There's a question in my mind about budget.
0:16:04 > 0:16:07It's going to be tricky and a real challenge,
0:16:07 > 0:16:10but I do think that it can be done.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14Gurmeet's ideas have gone down well
0:16:14 > 0:16:18but it's up to the couple to come up with a final plan they agree on.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23Having got the relevant permissions to change the flat,
0:16:23 > 0:16:26the builders start work on the bathroom.
0:16:27 > 0:16:31Gurmeet's recommended gutting it completely and starting again,
0:16:31 > 0:16:34with the new enlarged space that includes the covered area.
0:16:37 > 0:16:41But whilst at work, Antonio has second thoughts over the layout
0:16:41 > 0:16:44and stops the builders a few hours in.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49Suzanne arrives home to find a job half done.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52Oh, my!
0:16:52 > 0:16:54OK. Oh, gosh.
0:16:55 > 0:16:56Oh, dear.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59It's not a good start.
0:16:59 > 0:17:02The builders were all ready to go today.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08And then Antonio had his reservations.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12SHE SIGHS
0:17:12 > 0:17:14He's a man that needs time to think...
0:17:15 > 0:17:19..and needs to visualise it, but we can't turn back now.
0:17:19 > 0:17:25We've got no bathroom, so we need to just face up and get on with it now.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28Tonight will be the night for him to make a decision.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38Over the last three weeks Lee has opened up the back
0:17:38 > 0:17:42of the house to create space for their new family kitchen diner.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46Jamielee and Lee have been lost in a world of
0:17:46 > 0:17:49conventional domestic back extensions.
0:17:49 > 0:17:52But I need to blow their mind with something that's
0:17:52 > 0:17:55way out of the ordinary, that's way beyond what they've already seen,
0:17:55 > 0:17:59and encourage them to really be quite radical with their own space.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02So I'm taking them to a place full of fresh ideas
0:18:02 > 0:18:05for the inside AND the outside of their home.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10Nestled into a hillside,
0:18:10 > 0:18:13this misshapen studio is as far as you can get
0:18:13 > 0:18:17from the typical four walls and a roof and a bog-standard finish.
0:18:19 > 0:18:24Myrtle Cottage Garden Studio was built for £150,000.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29So immediately you can see it sits very beautifully in this bit of landscape, doesn't it?
0:18:29 > 0:18:32- It does, yes.- But it's a very modern building.- Yes.
0:18:32 > 0:18:34What I like is the earthy kind of colour.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38So this is patinated copper, that actually is amazingly beautiful.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41If you feel that, it doesn't feel like you think it would.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43No, it feels smooth compared to...
0:18:43 > 0:18:45- I actually thought it would feel a bit more rough.- Me too.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48- How about you, Jamielee, what do you think?- I like this.
0:18:48 > 0:18:49This is quite a bold statement.
0:18:49 > 0:18:53And I need to kind of get past that and kind of look at
0:18:53 > 0:18:57different options and what kind of materials we can use.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59'The patinated copper is a premium product
0:18:59 > 0:19:03'and this exterior cost over £14,000.'
0:19:03 > 0:19:06The labour element of this, cos it's quite a specialist thing,
0:19:06 > 0:19:07is expensive, but actually
0:19:07 > 0:19:10there's no reason that you couldn't find something you can do.
0:19:10 > 0:19:14I think the finish is great, and I definitely think it'd be
0:19:14 > 0:19:17something we could possibly work with on the house.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26So, nothing about this space is conventional.
0:19:26 > 0:19:28There's no regular walls.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30All the windows are at an angle.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33Everything's been thought through. So what do you think?
0:19:33 > 0:19:35It's not normal and that's what's nice about it.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- There's just this great quality of space, isn't there?- Yes.
0:19:39 > 0:19:43'I want to unpick the tricks that have been used in this small space.'
0:19:44 > 0:19:46So this floor is very beautiful, isn't it?
0:19:46 > 0:19:49This is a dark concrete, so this has a pigment in it.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51I like the floor.
0:19:51 > 0:19:53I had my eyes on that when we walked in.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56'Polished concrete flooring like this costs from around
0:19:56 > 0:19:58'£100 per square metre
0:19:58 > 0:20:01'and it's the dark, reflective finish that works so well.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04'You could achieve a similar look for less by using
0:20:04 > 0:20:08'concrete-effect ceramic tiles or even floor paint.'
0:20:08 > 0:20:11And with the colours and the contrast between the wood,
0:20:11 > 0:20:13goes really well as well.
0:20:13 > 0:20:17This one material that wraps this back wall is very nice.
0:20:17 > 0:20:22This is oak floorboards cut down in half and then roughed up.
0:20:23 > 0:20:27Wood on the walls adds texture and evokes a feeling of warmth
0:20:27 > 0:20:30far beyond what could be achieved with just paint.
0:20:31 > 0:20:33But it's nice with this black reveal
0:20:33 > 0:20:35that goes into where the wood burner is.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38- Yes, that makes it feel a big space.- It does.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42I like the window seat with the glass above.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44- It's beautiful, isn't it?- Yes.
0:20:44 > 0:20:47And it's beautiful the way this oak goes all the way up to that glass.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50It just lets so much light in.
0:20:51 > 0:20:55'Stonewood Design have carefully planned every inch of this space.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00'The best spot for a stove is always at the heart of a room.
0:21:00 > 0:21:03'Here a snug seat has been placed alongside.
0:21:03 > 0:21:06'A desk then runs the full length of the studio,
0:21:06 > 0:21:10'creating a place to sit and work, or simply enjoy the views.'
0:21:10 > 0:21:13This is the same material as the wall the other side,
0:21:13 > 0:21:15just polished instead of being left rough.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17So this has been really expensive.
0:21:17 > 0:21:19You're going to do something that costs a lot less,
0:21:19 > 0:21:22but actually you could end up, because of your knowledge
0:21:22 > 0:21:24and your skill, doing something that was equally polished.
0:21:24 > 0:21:28It's definitely given me some thought of, you know, what I can do.
0:21:28 > 0:21:33It's just kind of putting it into practice now and experimenting.
0:21:34 > 0:21:36So this is a beautiful secret room.
0:21:38 > 0:21:42'Adding a few surprises to your home is a great way to add interest
0:21:42 > 0:21:45'and fun. The perfect place to do it is often a small bathroom.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50'Here they've used polished copper as a total contrast
0:21:50 > 0:21:52'to the pale wood outside.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56'You could easily achieve a similar look with metallic paint.'
0:21:57 > 0:22:01The natural colour is really nice.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04And you just get that natural light there, which is just enough.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08'I need to find a way to bring some of the tricks seen here
0:22:08 > 0:22:11'into Jamielee and Lee's extension.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13'Finding low-cost materials will be key,
0:22:13 > 0:22:17'but I also need to ensure that the all-important family seating area
0:22:17 > 0:22:19'doesn't end up as a dumping ground.'
0:22:19 > 0:22:22This is a beautiful place to sit and linger, isn't it?
0:22:22 > 0:22:25With that sky above us and the view beyond.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27- It is, it's lovely. - Nice and peaceful.
0:22:27 > 0:22:29Has it changed your perspective, coming here,
0:22:29 > 0:22:31in terms of what you might do at your place?
0:22:31 > 0:22:33100%. It's inspiring.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36Even sitting here with the woodwork and using the same material but in
0:22:36 > 0:22:40a different way, this has definitely opened my eyes about what we can do.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42I think you now need to become experimental with
0:22:42 > 0:22:44what you do with the actual space,
0:22:44 > 0:22:48but also then the materials you use to define that space.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53'It's been amazing seeing them really come alive and get this,
0:22:53 > 0:22:56'and really understand why this building is so good.'
0:22:56 > 0:22:59I was worried that Lee would be quite defensive about
0:22:59 > 0:23:02his own work, but actually he's so open-minded,
0:23:02 > 0:23:06and seeing the lessons in this building,
0:23:06 > 0:23:09really understood how he needed to move his own game on.
0:23:15 > 0:23:18Back in north London, weeks have passed,
0:23:18 > 0:23:20and there's still no firm decision
0:23:20 > 0:23:22on the final design for the bathroom.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25I showed you all these pictures yesterday -
0:23:25 > 0:23:28why am I having to show you all these things again?
0:23:28 > 0:23:31- Because you change your mind. - You are so wrong!
0:23:33 > 0:23:36- I'm not changing my mind. - Yes, you do.
0:23:36 > 0:23:39Antonio, what has been happening is I've made a decision,
0:23:39 > 0:23:40I've talked to you about it.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43When the builders have come to install the plan,
0:23:43 > 0:23:46you are like, "Oh, I don't like any of this,"
0:23:46 > 0:23:49and you delay the job and you've done this on a few occasions.
0:23:49 > 0:23:51Mm-hm.
0:23:51 > 0:23:56I need you to be working with me and making these decisions with me.
0:23:56 > 0:23:57Are you done?
0:23:58 > 0:24:00It's a classic mistake.
0:24:00 > 0:24:04If you can't agree on a layout, the build will inevitably get delayed.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07The sanctuary Suzanne craves feels further away than ever.
0:24:07 > 0:24:10I don't want to do the tears,
0:24:10 > 0:24:12um...
0:24:12 > 0:24:14and I do feel the strain
0:24:14 > 0:24:16and it's taking its toll.
0:24:22 > 0:24:26Gurmeet and I urgently need to get this build back on track.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30I think it is a big worry, Antonio just choosing to stop
0:24:30 > 0:24:32this build willy-nilly,
0:24:32 > 0:24:35because actually builders really do need somebody to be decisive
0:24:35 > 0:24:38and they don't need people changing things partway through.
0:24:38 > 0:24:42In a way it's soul destroying to come up with a design
0:24:42 > 0:24:45and take inspiration from Suzanne and Antonio
0:24:45 > 0:24:48and get them involved, get them emotionally involved,
0:24:48 > 0:24:52and there seems to be a stumbling block there.
0:24:52 > 0:24:56Suzanne and Antonio are in danger of ending up with a set of bodges
0:24:56 > 0:24:59rather than something that is a complete vision.
0:24:59 > 0:25:01I think they need to see somewhere that's really clear,
0:25:01 > 0:25:05and is a beautiful, consolidated piece of architecture
0:25:05 > 0:25:08and maybe that will convince them to really hold their nerve here.
0:25:09 > 0:25:12I want Suzanne and Antonio to understand that every
0:25:12 > 0:25:16design choice they make about their interior matters.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19And today I'm going to show them a flat that's about the same size
0:25:19 > 0:25:24as theirs, but feels about twice as big, through clever architecture.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32This maisonette in east London makes a big impact,
0:25:32 > 0:25:35despite its modest footprint of 72 square metres.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41- Oh.- Oh.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44One of the things that I really like here is that this
0:25:44 > 0:25:47whole kitchen is designed to feel like a pod,
0:25:47 > 0:25:50a bit of joinery that's put into the corner of a big room,
0:25:50 > 0:25:54so your sense is not that this room is this big, but your room is
0:25:54 > 0:25:58actually as big as the corners of the floor plate, and then this
0:25:58 > 0:26:01is just something that sits calmly and beautifully in the corner.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04All you can see is windows and feel space,
0:26:04 > 0:26:07there's nothing seems to be...
0:26:07 > 0:26:10obstructing your ability to stretch out or to look at things.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13I can see the light in the kitchen, the light of the door.
0:26:13 > 0:26:15I can see the lights behind me.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18The way it's organised just seems very spacious.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23'The choice of furniture here, all on lightweight legs,
0:26:23 > 0:26:26'allows expanses of flooring to run underneath,
0:26:26 > 0:26:27'making the room feel bigger.
0:26:28 > 0:26:32'Mid-20th-century furniture is often in this style
0:26:32 > 0:26:34'and modern interpretations are widely available.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37'It's a design trick worth remembering when
0:26:37 > 0:26:39'you're furnishing a small room.'
0:26:39 > 0:26:43I think the architect who did this, his idea for this was that this
0:26:43 > 0:26:47was like an apple, so everything on the outside was one colour
0:26:47 > 0:26:50and when you bit into it, everything inside was the same colour.
0:26:50 > 0:26:54There's a beautiful clarity and legibility to this.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00When these hatches were done originally, either in Victorian times
0:27:00 > 0:27:02or in the '60s, they were mean little things
0:27:02 > 0:27:04that you passed a plate through.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07They weren't so big that you could just fit your whole body through.
0:27:07 > 0:27:09Just fantastic, isn't it?
0:27:12 > 0:27:14This is very clever.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17'Every square inch of every piece of storage
0:27:17 > 0:27:19'has also been carefully considered.'
0:27:19 > 0:27:20Bathroom.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23'The home owners have invested in more expensive materials
0:27:23 > 0:27:25'for the worktop and cupboard fronts.'
0:27:26 > 0:27:29All the surfaces that you touch are all steel
0:27:29 > 0:27:31and then the handles are all steel.
0:27:31 > 0:27:33The splashbacks are steel, this hood is steel,
0:27:33 > 0:27:36and it really binds everything together.
0:27:36 > 0:27:41'This stainless steel worktop cost an eye-watering £530 per square metre,
0:27:41 > 0:27:44'but you can find cheaper alternatives on the high street.
0:27:44 > 0:27:49'A tip here is to invest in materials that you touch every day.'
0:27:49 > 0:27:53I like the fact that it makes you want to touch it.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55It's lovely.
0:27:55 > 0:27:59This is a kind of bamboo ply and this is expensive stuff.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03I mean, this is about £135 for a sheet,
0:28:03 > 0:28:08so there are cheaper boards that are veneered boards of veneered ply
0:28:08 > 0:28:11or something that you can use that would be half the price of this.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13It looks like it cost a lot of money.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15But it's the finishing, I mean, that's the bit.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18That's where you need to make the investment.
0:28:18 > 0:28:19The material is beautiful
0:28:19 > 0:28:23but it's the way materials come together that make a big difference.
0:28:23 > 0:28:27I think the message really is don't be afraid of things
0:28:27 > 0:28:29that have real scale in a small space.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32I mean, I think in a way, you need to use bigger things
0:28:32 > 0:28:33sometimes in a small space.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36If this was a small hatch and the doors were all small and mean
0:28:36 > 0:28:41and normal, then actually it would feel much more confined and cramped.
0:28:43 > 0:28:46Definitely going to be a plus to have the hatch
0:28:46 > 0:28:50and being able to interact with people through the hatch.
0:28:50 > 0:28:53What I found exciting with Gurmeet's original plans
0:28:53 > 0:28:58was when from the hallway we could get a bit off the kitchen window,
0:28:58 > 0:29:00we could see through into the bathroom.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03Now being in a space where they've done that really effectively,
0:29:03 > 0:29:05that's what's creating the excitement,
0:29:05 > 0:29:07saying it can be done and it can be done really well.
0:29:08 > 0:29:10'Suzanne and Antonio seem convinced.
0:29:10 > 0:29:15'Now Gurmeet needs to find low-cost ways to bring these ideas into their home.'
0:29:26 > 0:29:29In Sutton Coldfield, building work is progressing,
0:29:29 > 0:29:33and as there's no way Jamielee and the kids can stay in the house,
0:29:33 > 0:29:35they've moved in with her parents.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37It was just getting a bit difficult with the dust
0:29:37 > 0:29:40and not having a kitchen, which is too much,
0:29:40 > 0:29:43especially with more walls coming down.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45But with the family split apart,
0:29:45 > 0:29:47old divisions are creeping back in.
0:29:47 > 0:29:49Following their trip to the studio,
0:29:49 > 0:29:53Lee is fired up by cladding the exterior in copper,
0:29:53 > 0:29:58but Jamielee has her heart set on the table and seating area bathed in light.
0:29:58 > 0:30:01Lee's very focused on the cladding on the back at the moment.
0:30:01 > 0:30:04I'm a bit concerned about that because, to me,
0:30:04 > 0:30:07that's not as important as a seating area.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10I'd like to get the cladding done, I would.
0:30:11 > 0:30:14I don't really want to compromise on that.
0:30:14 > 0:30:16I want copper.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18I've had a few discussions about that.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22Obviously, I'm all for that but I don't think it's as important
0:30:22 > 0:30:25as certain things inside. But...
0:30:26 > 0:30:29I'm sure we'll come to an agreement with that.
0:30:30 > 0:30:35It's vital this build doesn't get derailed by competing priorities.
0:30:35 > 0:30:37I'm back in the Midlands to try
0:30:37 > 0:30:39and find a way to ensure they both get what they want.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42Their budget is already under pressure and they've spent
0:30:42 > 0:30:46£6,500 on building materials and ordering a new kitchen.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49- So how is it all going? - Yes, it's going all right.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52- It's layout, and how we're going to finish things.- Sure.
0:30:52 > 0:30:53It's going to make a big difference
0:30:53 > 0:30:56- when that wall comes out, isn't it? - Yes. A massive difference.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59Shall we get this lot cleaned out of the way?
0:30:59 > 0:31:02- I'll give you a hand, then we can have a look at it.- Thank you.
0:31:04 > 0:31:08'It's great that Lee is motivated to push on with the plan.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11'The first thing I want to do is help him make the table
0:31:11 > 0:31:12'and seating area work.'
0:31:15 > 0:31:19Lee's yet to plasterboard the ceiling, so this is my opportunity
0:31:19 > 0:31:23to get more light into this family space that's so important to Jaimelee.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26I guess I thought here in particular what we could do is
0:31:26 > 0:31:30play with the shape of the ceiling to make it a bit more
0:31:30 > 0:31:33folded and faceted. If the ceiling was that shape,
0:31:33 > 0:31:35you can see already...
0:31:35 > 0:31:37You can see the light on it straightaway, yeah.
0:31:37 > 0:31:39It would bounce that around.
0:31:39 > 0:31:41The question for us is how do we finish it?
0:31:41 > 0:31:45We could just do one surface that folded along the back there.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51Changing the shape of the ceiling will direct the light down onto
0:31:51 > 0:31:56the table area, making it the focus of the room, which Jaimelee wants.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01- Already you can see how much more interesting this space is.- Yes.
0:32:01 > 0:32:05Actually, I think this could feel amazing.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07Straightaway it's a goer for me. I like it.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14- I think I've always struggled with trying to experiment.- Yeah.
0:32:14 > 0:32:19Now you have kind of pushed me in an experimental way, I can see it.
0:32:19 > 0:32:20If it didn't work, I'd say it didn't.
0:32:20 > 0:32:24There is nothing like just seeing what it's like,
0:32:24 > 0:32:26having a go at trying things out.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31'Lee has a new-found passion for his home.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34'I want to help get his vision for the exterior too.'
0:32:34 > 0:32:36So we need to talk about the outside.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41The metal we saw the other day was fantastic, wasn't it?
0:32:41 > 0:32:44Yes, it's getting the right kind of grade of copper.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47- I would have it unfinished so it's nice and sharp.- Beautiful.
0:32:47 > 0:32:49The only thing is,
0:32:49 > 0:32:53- it's got to be at the right kind of price to work with.- Sure.
0:32:53 > 0:32:58Copper's expensive. The idea he saw at the studio cost 14 grand.
0:32:58 > 0:33:02I've got to find a way to do it on a fraction of that.
0:33:03 > 0:33:04Finding a way to finish
0:33:04 > 0:33:07this as effectively as possible will be critical.
0:33:13 > 0:33:17In London, Suzanne and Antonio's build is finally moving forward.
0:33:18 > 0:33:23After months of waiting, at long last the bath is about to go in.
0:33:23 > 0:33:27Isn't it really sad to get excited about seeing a few legs
0:33:27 > 0:33:28getting put on a bit of steel.
0:33:31 > 0:33:33Suzanne and Antonio are learning the lessons to make this bathroom
0:33:33 > 0:33:35feel bigger.
0:33:36 > 0:33:40They are adding large white tiles to the walls
0:33:40 > 0:33:44and plan to box in all pipes and avoid clutter with built in storage.
0:33:47 > 0:33:51But she also wants them to add some well-judged luxury.
0:33:51 > 0:33:52Today I am taking Suzanne
0:33:52 > 0:33:57and Antonia to a place where I think is a great inspirational point.
0:33:57 > 0:34:00They are heading to a specialist materials store in central London.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03It's packed with thousands of products not normally
0:34:03 > 0:34:06found in mass-market DIY shops.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09A treasure trove for designers and architects,
0:34:09 > 0:34:12shops like these welcome members of the public too.
0:34:12 > 0:34:14- Ah! Straight into it.- I love this.
0:34:14 > 0:34:17'I want them to remember the design lesson about investing
0:34:17 > 0:34:20'your money in the things you touch on a daily basis.'
0:34:20 > 0:34:22This is beautiful.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24Gurmeet wants to spend on a part of the bathroom
0:34:24 > 0:34:28they'll touch every day - the floor.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30With the grid of cold tiles gone,
0:34:30 > 0:34:34he wants them to consider one expanse of rubber flooring.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36This is rubber flooring.
0:34:36 > 0:34:39It comes in some beautiful colours, some rich colours.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42- I like this. - That's definitely the one.
0:34:42 > 0:34:45Flooring like this is £25 per square metre.
0:34:45 > 0:34:48You want to give a bit of a wow factor.
0:34:48 > 0:34:49From an architectural point of view,
0:34:49 > 0:34:52rubber flooring would be seamless, a beautiful rich colour. It
0:34:52 > 0:34:57will always stay that colour as well and light will be bouncing off it.
0:34:57 > 0:35:00Is there any other more economical solution?
0:35:00 > 0:35:02Is it worth to pursue that?
0:35:02 > 0:35:06I suppose that you could perhaps explore vinyl flooring
0:35:06 > 0:35:09which may be £10 per square metre cheaper.
0:35:09 > 0:35:14Not even that much, so over 5 square metres you maybe save £50.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18This is where that extra £50 really goes a long way.
0:35:18 > 0:35:21- It does make sense. - Great.
0:35:23 > 0:35:29The biggest eye-opener was the way that we could actually get to
0:35:29 > 0:35:32a few more exquisite finishes without spending much money.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34That's clever.
0:35:34 > 0:35:38I don't think they were expecting this type of trip. It's given them
0:35:38 > 0:35:41a lot of impetus to push on through.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44I think I've got a very clear vision for the bathroom now.
0:35:44 > 0:35:47If I could see the flat coming together, that's exciting.
0:35:47 > 0:35:49It's all systems go now.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57In the London flat, Antonio is ripping out the old kitchen.
0:35:57 > 0:36:01Feeling inspired, the couple have chosen to invest in a new kitchen
0:36:01 > 0:36:05and have decided it is worth upping their budget from 10 to 15K.
0:36:06 > 0:36:09It feels really good to have my hands stuck in at this stage.
0:36:11 > 0:36:15It's also a big day for the key move in Gurmeet's plan.
0:36:15 > 0:36:18The builders begin to cut out a hatch to link the kitchen
0:36:18 > 0:36:20and the lounge.
0:36:21 > 0:36:22The hatch will give Suzanne
0:36:22 > 0:36:26the connection with her daughter she's been longing for.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38I was a wee bit emotional when it opened
0:36:38 > 0:36:42because all I was thinking of was Sophia...in the spaces.
0:36:43 > 0:36:45Now I can interact with Sophia.
0:36:45 > 0:36:47Even if she's in the lounge,
0:36:47 > 0:36:50I can be supervising what she's doing. It feels good.
0:36:50 > 0:36:55Seeing this, I can think, "Yes, I can see how this is going to work."
0:36:55 > 0:36:56It feels nice.
0:37:01 > 0:37:04Back in Sutton Coldfield, Jaimelee and Lee
0:37:04 > 0:37:08have started to solve the problems of finishing their building site.
0:37:08 > 0:37:10They've found some cheap flooring online.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13At the moment we've spent 1,300 on it.
0:37:13 > 0:37:16They've bought 80 square metres of floorboards
0:37:16 > 0:37:20salvaged from an old mill, but it's clinging to its industrial past,
0:37:20 > 0:37:22so Jaimelee has roped in dad Pete to help.
0:37:22 > 0:37:25Have you noticed how Lee does all the exciting jobs and you and me
0:37:25 > 0:37:27get to do the really dirty ones?
0:37:29 > 0:37:32Reclaimed materials are a great way to add character to your home,
0:37:32 > 0:37:35but they can require time and effort to make good.
0:37:39 > 0:37:41We've had a few problems with laying it.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44We've got to square off all the edges to get it to butt up.
0:37:44 > 0:37:47The timbers aren't all the same size.
0:37:47 > 0:37:49Some are a lot of thinner than others,
0:37:49 > 0:37:51where they've had more wear in the mill.
0:37:53 > 0:37:57The floor is proving more expensive than the couple hoped.
0:37:57 > 0:37:59That's like a banana.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02Underlay and levelling compound have doubled the bill to
0:38:02 > 0:38:04over £2,500.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07They've committed to spending more than 10K to get this house done,
0:38:07 > 0:38:12but I want to save them as much as I can on the copper for the exterior.
0:38:15 > 0:38:17The copper I showed Lee is very expensive,
0:38:17 > 0:38:20so usually unthinkable on a low-cost project.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24But I have found a metal wholesaler in nearby Walsall
0:38:24 > 0:38:26which might make it possible.
0:38:27 > 0:38:29- Hey, guys.- Beautiful, isn't it?
0:38:29 > 0:38:32The reason I brought you here is that this is a place
0:38:32 > 0:38:34where you can get it as cheaply as possible.
0:38:34 > 0:38:38You can get access to wholesalers like this all over the country.
0:38:38 > 0:38:41They usually stock a much wider range of metal products
0:38:41 > 0:38:43than a building supplier.
0:38:43 > 0:38:46It comes in lots of different thicknesses.
0:38:47 > 0:38:49Shall we lay that out on this?
0:38:49 > 0:38:53'These thin copper sheets cost just over £45 a square metre,
0:38:53 > 0:38:56'much cheaper than the high-end stuff.
0:38:56 > 0:39:00'Using a tile design could also be a cost-saving trick.'
0:39:01 > 0:39:04- Let's lay out these and see how it looks.- It looks nice.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07- There's different light on it if you change it the other way.- Yeah.
0:39:09 > 0:39:11- It's great, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13You've got quite a small surface area, so I think you might
0:39:13 > 0:39:15need quite small pieces.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18There's a stack over here I can grab and we can have a play with these.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22'Buying large sheets of copper means more wastage
0:39:22 > 0:39:25'when cutting them to size.
0:39:25 > 0:39:28'Using small tiles can reduce this and they can be easier to fit.'
0:39:31 > 0:39:33This is thicker than you would use.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37But actually, it's quite a nice proportion.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41- Yeah, you get more detail, don't you?- You do.- No, I do like that.
0:39:41 > 0:39:44- I actually like it more than the big sheets.- Yeah.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47It looks too plain, in a sense, that does. I think that...
0:39:47 > 0:39:49- I think that looks perfect. - Yes, it does.
0:39:49 > 0:39:51What do you reckon? You'll use this?
0:39:51 > 0:39:55- I think so. I think I like the, um...- Smaller pieces?- Yeah.
0:39:55 > 0:39:57Great, I can't wait to see it.
0:40:00 > 0:40:04It's been wonderful to see Lee's progress from somebody who did
0:40:04 > 0:40:07things in quite a conventional ways through to somebody
0:40:07 > 0:40:10that now is totally prepared to think outside of the box.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13There's still quite a long way to go.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16The danger is that they do things that they already know.
0:40:16 > 0:40:20I think everywhere they need to keep pushing the boundaries.
0:40:24 > 0:40:28In London, work on the flat intensifies and at last Suzanne
0:40:28 > 0:40:32can begin to think about interior details and final finishing.
0:40:32 > 0:40:36It is the final push and I am loving seeing it come together.
0:40:36 > 0:40:40I've lived in dust and dirt for quite some time,
0:40:40 > 0:40:44so it starts becoming more rewarding when you see things take shape.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50The glass has been fitted in the new window between bathroom
0:40:50 > 0:40:54and hallway, and storage units are being installed in the lounge.
0:40:54 > 0:40:58Bespokely-made to utilise every inch of the dividing wall,
0:40:58 > 0:41:01it's another design trick that can make a room feel bigger.
0:41:04 > 0:41:08Having pushed their budget to 15K, they need to save where they can.
0:41:08 > 0:41:13Antonio does the prep work ready for the electrician to rewire the kitchen.
0:41:13 > 0:41:16I think my wife deserves a nice place to come home to.
0:41:16 > 0:41:21She works very hard. It takes its toll. It is difficult at the moment.
0:41:21 > 0:41:23There is still a long way to go
0:41:23 > 0:41:27and the couple have yet to add the touches of colour and luxury
0:41:27 > 0:41:31that could make the flat the relaxing haven they're desperate for.
0:41:31 > 0:41:34Will it come together to become their dream home at last?
0:41:40 > 0:41:43Over five months since he first visited, Gurmeet has returned
0:41:43 > 0:41:47to find out if Suzanne and Antonio have managed to realise his ideas
0:41:47 > 0:41:52to turn the dark and impractical flat into a spacious, light-filled home.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56- Hi.- Hello.- How are you doing? Nice to see you.- Nice to see you.
0:41:56 > 0:42:00- I'm really well.- How are you doing? Are you excited?
0:42:00 > 0:42:03Yeah. Exhausted more.
0:42:03 > 0:42:08- OK... I can't wait to see the results. Shall we have a look?- Yes.
0:42:11 > 0:42:14Previously, the flat was divided by a long corridor,
0:42:14 > 0:42:16the space was gloomy and uninviting.
0:42:20 > 0:42:23- Wow! What a transformation.- Yes.
0:42:26 > 0:42:30The first thing I noticed, that window. I'm so glad you did it.
0:42:30 > 0:42:32- I hope you are as well. - We are very glad.
0:42:35 > 0:42:38The frosted glass panel has replaced the old covered door,
0:42:38 > 0:42:41a simple move that has had a dramatic effect.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- The morning is awesome here.- Really? The sun comes straight through.
0:42:45 > 0:42:49Yes, from everywhere. Basically, we don't need to have the lights on.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51It makes it worth getting out of bed for.
0:42:52 > 0:42:56Keeping a watchful eye on toddler Sophia had been impossible
0:42:56 > 0:42:59and family life was played out across separate rooms.
0:42:59 > 0:43:04So has Gurmeet's big idea of a hatch to link the spaces changed all that?
0:43:11 > 0:43:15Wow! What a transformation. This is incredible. How do you guys feel?
0:43:15 > 0:43:19- We are pleased.- We are very pleased with it. It makes a big difference.
0:43:19 > 0:43:23Yes. It feels just bright and spacious, it feels bigger.
0:43:23 > 0:43:24We're really pleased.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28The light coming through into the kitchen,
0:43:28 > 0:43:32living room, but also bleeding on into the lobby as well.
0:43:32 > 0:43:36I think such a big move and a bold move as well.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39We didn't realise that it would affect us this much.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42It's very, very good.
0:43:42 > 0:43:45Let me go round. Hi!
0:43:45 > 0:43:47You can see each other.
0:43:47 > 0:43:52I realised it made a difference when Sophia was playing around here.
0:43:52 > 0:43:57She was like, "Mummy, mummy!" to get my attention. So I came over,
0:43:57 > 0:44:01stood where you are now and said, "Yes, Sophia," and started talking.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04She was surprised. "Oh, yes! We can see each other now."
0:44:04 > 0:44:06So there is that feeling of being connected,
0:44:06 > 0:44:07regardless of where we are.
0:44:07 > 0:44:11I can always have a glimpse of where she is and that feels really nice.
0:44:14 > 0:44:17Other design ideas increase the sense of space in the flat.
0:44:17 > 0:44:21Bespoke storage hides the clutter of family life
0:44:21 > 0:44:26and bulky sofa's gone, lightweight furniture allows views throughout.
0:44:26 > 0:44:28Although not part of Gurmeet's original plan,
0:44:28 > 0:44:31the couple have completely redone the kitchen.
0:44:34 > 0:44:36I'm looking around the kitchen.
0:44:36 > 0:44:39I really love the way you've added that dash of colour.
0:44:40 > 0:44:43I think the way you've opened up this space,
0:44:43 > 0:44:48colour concentrated on a wall allows the space also to be defined.
0:44:48 > 0:44:50This is a kitchen.
0:44:50 > 0:44:52It's a completely different function to that room.
0:44:55 > 0:44:58As well as looking beautiful with the white grout, I think
0:44:58 > 0:44:59it looks really sharp.
0:45:01 > 0:45:05The old bathroom was cramped, dilapidated, lacked storage
0:45:05 > 0:45:07and didn't even fit a bath.
0:45:07 > 0:45:10Gurmeet encouraged them to knock through to the cupboard
0:45:10 > 0:45:13and use tricks to make it feel bigger.
0:45:13 > 0:45:15Has it created the sanctuary Suzanne craved?
0:45:24 > 0:45:29- Wow. A lot bigger and different. - Yes, definitely.
0:45:31 > 0:45:34This was supposed to be your luxury space,
0:45:34 > 0:45:37where you shut the door and you get away from it all.
0:45:37 > 0:45:41- Do you think you have finally got your sanctuary?- This feels lovely.
0:45:41 > 0:45:46What makes me happy is for every little spot, I think
0:45:46 > 0:45:49about the little decisions that are made along the way,
0:45:49 > 0:45:52and it feels good to see it all come together.
0:45:52 > 0:45:54And I like the way, actually, that it's quite a simple,
0:45:54 > 0:45:57clean design, and there's so little clutter
0:45:57 > 0:46:00because, actually, you have dedicated storage space.
0:46:03 > 0:46:06I don't think you anticipated having anything other than
0:46:06 > 0:46:07tiles for the floor.
0:46:07 > 0:46:10The floor is going to be stood on every single day,
0:46:10 > 0:46:12and it is sometimes underrated.
0:46:12 > 0:46:15I'm really glad you went for something a little bit
0:46:15 > 0:46:16outside of the box.
0:46:16 > 0:46:20Well, it was once we went to the inspiration of it,
0:46:20 > 0:46:24and I saw the flooring potential there.
0:46:24 > 0:46:27Then to go back to the tiles didn't seem like an option.
0:46:27 > 0:46:30I knew I wanted something with a bit of colour, so that's nice.
0:46:32 > 0:46:36The floor provides the perfect pop of colour in this space.
0:46:38 > 0:46:41Suzanne and Antonio chose to invest more of their savings to
0:46:41 > 0:46:44completely transform the flat.
0:46:44 > 0:46:49Once we started considering what the impact of having that hatch
0:46:49 > 0:46:54would mean on the overall space, we realised we had to extend
0:46:54 > 0:46:58the budget in order for us to bring the whole of the flat together.
0:46:58 > 0:47:02So, all in all, for everything, we brought it in at 15K.
0:47:04 > 0:47:07They did Gurmeet's plan for 10K, but I think the additional
0:47:07 > 0:47:10spend on a new kitchen and storage units is a good move
0:47:10 > 0:47:14because they can now remain in the flat for many more years.
0:47:14 > 0:47:17It feels homely, it feels like our place, it
0:47:17 > 0:47:20doesn't feel like a transitional home any more, it feels like ours.
0:47:23 > 0:47:27I think, fundamentally, we've brought a family closer together, really.
0:47:27 > 0:47:32The transformation that has occurred in a few months has just been incredible.
0:47:39 > 0:47:41Back in the Midlands, Jamielee
0:47:41 > 0:47:45and Lee now need to tackle two of the most critical parts of the entire project,
0:47:45 > 0:47:48the copper cladding and the family table and seating area.
0:47:51 > 0:47:54Despite money pressures, Jamielee is determined to make that
0:47:54 > 0:47:58all-important family table the heart of their home.
0:47:58 > 0:48:02For the top, she's chosen a material that is more associated with
0:48:02 > 0:48:06the office pinboard than modern furniture - cork.
0:48:06 > 0:48:09We seen the cork tabletop months before we started doing
0:48:09 > 0:48:12the extension, and we quite liked the idea.
0:48:12 > 0:48:15We actually seen it in the shop.
0:48:15 > 0:48:20The tabletop cost just £100 from a self-assembly furniture store.
0:48:20 > 0:48:23As well as being naturally water repellent, cork is a sustainable
0:48:23 > 0:48:27material as it is harvested from the bark of a tree, which grows back.
0:48:29 > 0:48:33For the base, she is planning to use old sewing machine table legs,
0:48:33 > 0:48:37- which have been languishing in the shed for years.- Finally using them.
0:48:37 > 0:48:40And Lee has sort of left the colouring, doing them, up to me.
0:48:43 > 0:48:46I'm going to spray them up, make them look nice,
0:48:46 > 0:48:49and then Lee is going to drill them to the table.
0:48:49 > 0:48:52No-one else is going to have anything like this at the moment,
0:48:52 > 0:48:54we don't think.
0:48:54 > 0:48:57So it is definitely something that's new and unique for our house,
0:48:57 > 0:48:59which is good.
0:49:01 > 0:49:05Lee is at work cladding the exterior back wall with copper.
0:49:07 > 0:49:09I'm going to drill the copper plate
0:49:09 > 0:49:12and then attach it with copper nails.
0:49:12 > 0:49:15I am going to experiment as I go along
0:49:15 > 0:49:18and hopefully get what I want. I've kind of got in my head what I want.
0:49:20 > 0:49:24But to actually do it is something else.
0:49:24 > 0:49:28So, hopefully just kind of get it right the first time.
0:49:30 > 0:49:34He's gambling more than £1,000 on the exterior.
0:49:34 > 0:49:38I only hope his make-it-up-as you-go-along approach pays off.
0:49:38 > 0:49:41I haven't kind of figured out how far I'm going to come across.
0:49:43 > 0:49:46The couple have grafted long and hard to try
0:49:46 > 0:49:50and finish the extension, and there's still a long way to go.
0:49:50 > 0:49:54Will they succeed in turning it into a purposeful, welcoming family home?
0:49:56 > 0:49:57That's all right, isn't it?
0:50:05 > 0:50:06Four months after my first visit,
0:50:06 > 0:50:10I'm back in Sutton Coldfield to see the result.
0:50:11 > 0:50:15When I first came here, Jamielee and Lee were completely divided -
0:50:15 > 0:50:20they just couldn't agree what this newly extended house should include.
0:50:20 > 0:50:23Previously, the extension was an abandoned building site,
0:50:23 > 0:50:25and the couple lacked focus.
0:50:27 > 0:50:31'My plan gave them defined areas to cook, eat and relax in.
0:50:31 > 0:50:33'So have they pulled it off?'
0:50:33 > 0:50:35Hi, Lee, how are you doing?
0:50:35 > 0:50:38- How are you doing, you all right? - Good to see you.- Come on in.
0:50:38 > 0:50:40My God, I can't believe it.
0:50:48 > 0:50:51- It's like a completely different house.- Yeah.
0:50:51 > 0:50:54- It has opened it up, hasn't it? - It's amazing, yeah.
0:50:56 > 0:51:01- It feels three times the size, and totally different, doesn't it?- Yes.
0:51:01 > 0:51:03I think it is just more light as well.
0:51:03 > 0:51:05Is this what you had hoped for?
0:51:05 > 0:51:07A lot more than I was expecting, I think.
0:51:10 > 0:51:13I mean, what's nice is that it isn't just open-plan.
0:51:13 > 0:51:16I mean, you've got very key spaces in here, haven't you?
0:51:18 > 0:51:22Before, the centre of the house was dingy and purposeless.
0:51:22 > 0:51:25This was the poor relation, the bit in the middle that we
0:51:25 > 0:51:28didn't quite know what to do with, and it was dark. It was sort of no-man's-land.
0:51:28 > 0:51:30But now it makes total sense, doesn't it?
0:51:30 > 0:51:34Yeah, we have essentially doubled the size of the living room.
0:51:35 > 0:51:39The log burner is a welcoming focal point, and the exposed
0:51:39 > 0:51:43brick of the chimney breast helps define the space and costs nothing.
0:51:44 > 0:51:47They look great just left exactly as they are.
0:51:47 > 0:51:49- Yeah, you don't even need to touch them.- We like...
0:51:49 > 0:51:51Yeah, the ruggedness of it, I think.
0:51:51 > 0:51:53But I think they work really well with
0:51:53 > 0:51:56- the crispness of the white paint and the plastering.- Yes.
0:51:59 > 0:52:04The extension ceiling was in danger of being bog-standard.
0:52:04 > 0:52:07I saw an opportunity here to use it to get more light in the room,
0:52:07 > 0:52:10and encourage Lee to angle it to direct
0:52:10 > 0:52:13light down into the kitchen and dining area.
0:52:13 > 0:52:15So, has it worked?
0:52:22 > 0:52:24Wow, this ceiling looks amazing.
0:52:24 > 0:52:28Those two roof lights now look totally intentional and perfect.
0:52:28 > 0:52:31I remember I was holding up those batons up there
0:52:31 > 0:52:33and wondering whether it would work,
0:52:33 > 0:52:37but actually it looks better than I could ever have imagined, actually.
0:52:40 > 0:52:42Lee has added his own twist to this ceiling -
0:52:42 > 0:52:46some LED lights costing just £25.
0:52:46 > 0:52:48In the evening, we've got some more light that shines up it.
0:52:48 > 0:52:53It is still making a feature of it in the evening and the dark.
0:52:53 > 0:52:56My biggest structural move was to encourage the couple to incorporate
0:52:56 > 0:53:01the space occupied by the utility room and position the kitchen here.
0:53:05 > 0:53:08Because of course there was this wall here before, wasn't there?
0:53:08 > 0:53:13- Yes.- And this was space that was a very long, thin utility. - That's right.
0:53:13 > 0:53:15But it works so well, doesn't it?
0:53:19 > 0:53:21Having learned the lesson from the studio visit,
0:53:21 > 0:53:25they've taken every opportunity to get light into the room.
0:53:25 > 0:53:27But it's such a nice space - this is beautiful.
0:53:27 > 0:53:31It is full of light and you've added in that big roof light up there.
0:53:31 > 0:53:34- That's right. - And it's really, really effective.
0:53:37 > 0:53:39I mean, what's great is you've got so much space,
0:53:39 > 0:53:42but it doesn't just feel like a big open barn, it feels
0:53:42 > 0:53:47like a house with these beautiful, delightful light-filled spaces.
0:53:49 > 0:53:52Critically, you've got this beautiful sitting area.
0:53:52 > 0:53:56- And a kitchen table.- Yes, we sit there most evenings.
0:53:56 > 0:53:58- Every night now as a family. - And you eat there?
0:53:58 > 0:54:00Yeah, eat there.
0:54:00 > 0:54:03The base of the seating area was created using
0:54:03 > 0:54:05self-assembly wall units,
0:54:05 > 0:54:09and are topped with the same cork as the quirky home-made dining table.
0:54:09 > 0:54:11- This cork looks great. - Yes, it is lovely.
0:54:11 > 0:54:15We were looking at different ideas for the kitchen island, and we come
0:54:15 > 0:54:20across the tabletops and thought that would be perfect for this area.
0:54:24 > 0:54:26I remember when I first came here,
0:54:26 > 0:54:30I asked you both how important
0:54:30 > 0:54:34it was to have a kitchen table.
0:54:34 > 0:54:36Now that you've got it, if I asked you both again,
0:54:36 > 0:54:38how important would you say this is?
0:54:38 > 0:54:41Now we've got it, you realise how much you need it.
0:54:41 > 0:54:44After all the hard work we've put in, you don't want the kids
0:54:44 > 0:54:47walking around with food, or at their table,
0:54:47 > 0:54:48and it's important to be together.
0:54:48 > 0:54:52It's better that you've built in this, rather than having chairs around it.
0:54:52 > 0:54:55You've actually made this seating area
0:54:55 > 0:54:57part of the architecture of this space.
0:54:59 > 0:55:02'The bench seats that fit right up against the walls are a very
0:55:02 > 0:55:04'efficient use of space.
0:55:05 > 0:55:08'Jaimelee and Lee increased the scope and budget of this project
0:55:08 > 0:55:10'since I first met them.'
0:55:10 > 0:55:13How much have you spent?
0:55:13 > 0:55:16We've just spent under 17,000.
0:55:16 > 0:55:19I've never had a problem spending more if it's something I want.
0:55:19 > 0:55:22- It had to be the right... - Yeah, it has to be right.
0:55:22 > 0:55:24You know, I can always go cheaper
0:55:24 > 0:55:26on getting different materials.
0:55:26 > 0:55:29If it's not what we want, we were never going to be happy with it.
0:55:29 > 0:55:32That's where we had to kind of do things.
0:55:32 > 0:55:35We've got to get it just to what we want and be happy with it.
0:55:35 > 0:55:39Here also, you've done work that you probably thought you weren't going to do originally.
0:55:39 > 0:55:42- Yeah.- Oh, yeah.- You made a new bit of building.- Yeah, yeah.
0:55:42 > 0:55:44You've got a much bigger kitchen
0:55:44 > 0:55:46and you've made this built-in seating area.
0:55:46 > 0:55:50There's also some work that you have got as well as the things that you thought you were going to do.
0:55:50 > 0:55:54There is still one thing I haven't seen and I think that's outside.
0:55:54 > 0:55:58I'm wondering whether you've done the copper cladding.
0:56:04 > 0:56:06This looks amazing.
0:56:07 > 0:56:09- It's nice, isn't it? - It's fantastic.
0:56:11 > 0:56:15I think it just gives you a total different kind of character, really.
0:56:15 > 0:56:18This will age, as well, In seven years' time it can be green.
0:56:18 > 0:56:19It looks really tactile.
0:56:19 > 0:56:22- Can I have a closer look at it? - Yeah.
0:56:23 > 0:56:27'Having fallen in love with the £14,000 cladding on the studio,
0:56:27 > 0:56:29'this cost him just 1,400.'
0:56:30 > 0:56:34- It's a very soft metal, copper, isn't it?- Yes.
0:56:34 > 0:56:37This looks like you've used quite a thick copper.
0:56:37 > 0:56:39This copper is 1.5mm thick.
0:56:39 > 0:56:42That now gives it a totally different character,
0:56:42 > 0:56:44than just one big sheet of copper.
0:56:44 > 0:56:48For you, have you enjoyed the whole process, the questioning
0:56:48 > 0:56:50the way you were doing things and trying new ways?
0:56:50 > 0:56:54Yeah, definitely. It's pulled me out of my comfort zone
0:56:54 > 0:56:59and I'm now kind of wanting to try even more materials.
0:56:59 > 0:57:02It's all been plusses on my side, really.
0:57:04 > 0:57:08Jaimelee and Lee's home is now one where they can welcome family
0:57:08 > 0:57:12and friends, a far cry from the disused building site of old.
0:57:12 > 0:57:14- Cheers!- Cheers!- Cheers!
0:57:14 > 0:57:16Jaimelee and Lee, well done.
0:57:20 > 0:57:25Initially, Lee had built a very straightforward extension
0:57:25 > 0:57:28that just moved the space out without really thinking about
0:57:28 > 0:57:32how they could use all of the space in the ground floor of their house.
0:57:32 > 0:57:38Like many people, he and Jaimelee thought open plan meant NO plan,
0:57:38 > 0:57:42but they've learnt that giving each area a purpose was the key to
0:57:42 > 0:57:44making this family house work for them.
0:57:44 > 0:57:49Though the house is open plan, each space has its own character
0:57:49 > 0:57:51and I think that's really successful.
0:57:59 > 0:58:01Next time...
0:58:01 > 0:58:04There's a radical idea to create more space...
0:58:04 > 0:58:07Your room, as it is, would disappear.
0:58:07 > 0:58:10..as we break new ground in an old Post Office.
0:58:10 > 0:58:13There's a lot left to do, that's worrying me at the minute.
0:58:13 > 0:58:16I help one couple rip it out and redesign.
0:58:16 > 0:58:19They make these out of something beautiful and interesting,
0:58:19 > 0:58:20but can they pull it off?
0:58:20 > 0:58:22Frankly, we've about blown our budget.