0:00:01 > 0:00:04Homes across Britain don't fit our needs...
0:00:04 > 0:00:06We're going to feel like sardines in a can.
0:00:06 > 0:00:08..or our dreams...
0:00:08 > 0:00:12- This is what's known as miserable. - RUBBLE CLATTERS
0:00:12 > 0:00:15I'm Piers Taylor and I've handpicked a team of experts
0:00:15 > 0:00:17to transform everyday houses...
0:00:20 > 0:00:22If you feel that, it doesn't feel like you think it would.
0:00:22 > 0:00:24From bold changes...
0:00:24 > 0:00:26Your room, as it is, would disappear.
0:00:28 > 0:00:30..to stunning interior ideas...
0:00:31 > 0:00:32I think it looks amazing now.
0:00:32 > 0:00:34..and finishing touches...
0:00:34 > 0:00:36It's a bit of a focal point.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38We'll use every trick of the trade...
0:00:38 > 0:00:40You want to give a bit of a wow factor.
0:00:40 > 0:00:42..to prove a limit on your funds...
0:00:42 > 0:00:44This stuff's free.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46..does not mean a limit on your imagination.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49This is amazing, I mean, really amazing.
0:00:52 > 0:00:54This time, the family home that's cramped and chaotic...
0:00:55 > 0:00:58It's just a bit of a hellhole out there, to be honest with you.
0:00:58 > 0:01:02..and ingenious ideas that will transform any room...
0:01:02 > 0:01:05The floor runs all the way underneath it, so this floats.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08How to take your forgotten basement to another level...
0:01:08 > 0:01:11SO many options, so many choices!
0:01:11 > 0:01:14But...will a DIY approach backfire?
0:01:14 > 0:01:15That wasn't like that!
0:01:15 > 0:01:17I think I'll ring my builder and let him know
0:01:17 > 0:01:19that my house is falling down!
0:01:32 > 0:01:34Back in 1998,
0:01:34 > 0:01:37Rob bought this three-bed ex-council house in Warwick.
0:01:39 > 0:01:40I grew up in the area
0:01:40 > 0:01:43and shortly before my father died 21 years ago,
0:01:43 > 0:01:45he made me promise
0:01:45 > 0:01:49that I would plough the inheritance that I got off him into a house.
0:01:49 > 0:01:52Two years later, he got together with Cath
0:01:52 > 0:01:56and the couple now have three children. CHILDREN CHATTER
0:01:58 > 0:02:01The house that once worked for Rob as a single man
0:02:01 > 0:02:04is bursting at the seams now they're a family of five.
0:02:04 > 0:02:07Breakfast is normally chaotic. We haven't really got enough space
0:02:07 > 0:02:09and there's a lot of us in a small room.
0:02:09 > 0:02:12I don't actually get to sit down, I get to eat on the go.
0:02:13 > 0:02:17The first problem is the layout of the ground floor.
0:02:17 > 0:02:19The family are struggling with a small kitchen,
0:02:19 > 0:02:21a dark living room,
0:02:21 > 0:02:23and a cramped hallway.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26This is a real bane of our lives trying to get shoes on,
0:02:26 > 0:02:28and the toilet's there, it's the thoroughfare.
0:02:28 > 0:02:30It's just a really,
0:02:30 > 0:02:32it's a real pinchpoint of our lives this little spot here.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36- GIRL:- And it's a really tiny house! - HE LAUGHS
0:02:36 > 0:02:38Upstairs, the kids have the bigger bedrooms
0:02:38 > 0:02:42and Cath and Rob have been relegated to the smallest one for the last five years.
0:02:44 > 0:02:46This is my wardrobe!
0:02:46 > 0:02:49A big pile of clothes and I kind of have to shimmy down the bed to get into it.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52We just feel compromised and would really like to stop camping.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55It would be really nice to have more space.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59The family have borrowed £55,000.
0:02:59 > 0:03:01They want to build a two-storey extension,
0:03:01 > 0:03:04which they hope will solve all their problems.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06It's not very enjoyable the way it is.
0:03:06 > 0:03:09We can't carry on living like this. It is starting to do our heads in.
0:03:16 > 0:03:19I'm on my way to Warwick to meet Cath and Rob.
0:03:19 > 0:03:22Their house has a huge number of problems.
0:03:22 > 0:03:24The trick will be to find the thing
0:03:24 > 0:03:27that makes the biggest difference for them and their family.
0:03:32 > 0:03:34- Hello, Piers. Hi! - How are you doing?- Good.
0:03:34 > 0:03:36- BOTH: Nice to meet you.- Come on in.
0:03:36 > 0:03:38Busy time of the day for you guys?
0:03:38 > 0:03:41- Yes. It's...- Hello, how are you doing?- Piers, how are you doing? Nice to meet you.
0:03:41 > 0:03:43How you doing? Hello. How are you doing?
0:03:43 > 0:03:45Do you spend most of your time together in here?
0:03:45 > 0:03:48- Or just at mealtimes. - Yeah, just at mealtimes.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Then we're in and out cos there's not enough room.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53Did you see me trying to get to the microwave? It's like shuffling past.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56- And the fridge here, as well, will nearly always... - Smash people on the head.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01'The kitchen is clearly too small for their needs
0:04:01 > 0:04:04'and the poorly designed layout results in dark, miserable rooms.'
0:04:06 > 0:04:10It's a sunny, summer day, but there's no sun in here
0:04:10 > 0:04:13and it just feels a bit...underused and underloved.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17'And like many homes across the country,
0:04:17 > 0:04:20'this house has had a conservatory added on the back.'
0:04:21 > 0:04:23So this is interesting,
0:04:23 > 0:04:26cos it's the best position in the house in some ways.
0:04:26 > 0:04:29It's overlooking the garden, it's got the aspect,
0:04:29 > 0:04:30got the light, all that stuff,
0:04:30 > 0:04:32and yet it's kind of unusable, isn't it?
0:04:33 > 0:04:36We do get a lot of sun in here, and it's just so hot all the time
0:04:36 > 0:04:39apart from the winter when it's completely, bitterly cold.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41Conservatories cut out the natural light
0:04:41 > 0:04:44and ventilation to the rest of the house.
0:04:44 > 0:04:45They just don't work very well.
0:04:47 > 0:04:49'With so much stuff dumped in this room,
0:04:49 > 0:04:52'lack of storage is clearly a problem, too.'
0:04:55 > 0:04:56So this is where we sleep.
0:04:58 > 0:05:00Yes, I can see that this is...
0:05:00 > 0:05:03about as basic as a bedroom gets.
0:05:03 > 0:05:07Everything is conspiring to make you feel oppressed
0:05:07 > 0:05:10by the size of these spaces.
0:05:10 > 0:05:12Is there anything up here in the loft?
0:05:12 > 0:05:15- More junk! - THEY LAUGH
0:05:15 > 0:05:18The easy option to our prayers would be just to go up in the loft,
0:05:18 > 0:05:20but unfortunately, we don't have the head height so...
0:05:20 > 0:05:22we're stuck with what we've got.
0:05:24 > 0:05:29At the moment, a loft conversion is being discounted by Cath and Rob
0:05:29 > 0:05:31because there just isn't the space upstairs.
0:05:31 > 0:05:33But I really want to find a way to go up,
0:05:33 > 0:05:36because I think you get the view, you get the space
0:05:36 > 0:05:39for relatively little cost.
0:05:39 > 0:05:40But...
0:05:40 > 0:05:42quite how we'll do it yet, I'm just not sure.
0:05:43 > 0:05:46'The planned two-storey extension on the back
0:05:46 > 0:05:47'will give them more bedrooms,
0:05:47 > 0:05:49'but I don't think this is the answer.'
0:05:51 > 0:05:53- In an ideal world...- Yeah...
0:05:54 > 0:05:56..one would start again completely.
0:05:56 > 0:06:00BUT I think there is something else that we could do... ROB CHUCKLES
0:06:00 > 0:06:05..and I think it's touch-and-go whether it could work.
0:06:05 > 0:06:06Fundamentally, though,
0:06:06 > 0:06:08the key to this is finding a way to use the loft
0:06:08 > 0:06:11and the loft - at the moment - can't be used
0:06:11 > 0:06:16because there's only about 1,600 mil of head height.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18The key to getting it to work
0:06:18 > 0:06:22is through the middle of the building...
0:06:22 > 0:06:26just dropping the floor of the loft
0:06:26 > 0:06:30- and reconfiguring the stairs so that...- Sounds expensive.
0:06:30 > 0:06:32Well...It's a lot less expensive than spending 50 grand
0:06:32 > 0:06:34on an extension you don't want.
0:06:34 > 0:06:38Then you could build the kind of coolest dormer in the world
0:06:38 > 0:06:41with amazing bed platform in it.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43So let's just deal with the ground floor.
0:06:43 > 0:06:47I think you should be doing a ground-floor extension
0:06:47 > 0:06:49and then I think, critically,
0:06:49 > 0:06:53add a big roof light over the middle of that.
0:06:53 > 0:06:57That change there just opens up the options just amazingly.
0:06:57 > 0:07:01You really do have, well, better living spaces.
0:07:01 > 0:07:05It's like looking at a different house to what we were a few minutes ago.
0:07:05 > 0:07:08'And I've one final suggestion I want them to consider.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10'A modern porch.'
0:07:10 > 0:07:12What it would give you is something beautiful to look at
0:07:12 > 0:07:14which changed the front of the building,
0:07:14 > 0:07:17cupboard space and a way into the building
0:07:17 > 0:07:19that protected you from the weather.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22It's just a nicer way to arrive at your house.
0:07:22 > 0:07:23- Oh, that's much better. - Absolutely.
0:07:23 > 0:07:27- To be able to cover that off in the whole of this scheme would be incredible.- It would.
0:07:27 > 0:07:31And, whilst getting some more badly needed space would be fantastic.
0:07:35 > 0:07:38'My plan is all about squeezing much more
0:07:38 > 0:07:40'out of the existing space in the house.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45'Dropping the middle section of the floor in the loft
0:07:45 > 0:07:47'and adding a dormer window would give Cath and Rob
0:07:47 > 0:07:50'the additional head height needed to turn this space
0:07:50 > 0:07:52'into a much-needed fourth bedroom.
0:07:54 > 0:07:58'On the ground floor, getting rid of the old conservatory
0:07:58 > 0:08:02'and replacing it with a single-storey extension lit from above by a roof light
0:08:02 > 0:08:05'will solve the problem of a dark middle area of the house.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12'Removing internal walls will then create a new, large open-plan
0:08:12 > 0:08:14'family living and dining area.
0:08:16 > 0:08:19'My final suggestion is that they add a porch
0:08:19 > 0:08:21'to improve the look of the house
0:08:21 > 0:08:24'and it would also give the family some much-needed storage.'
0:08:25 > 0:08:28There's still a lot of ifs in terms of construction
0:08:28 > 0:08:30and in terms of cost.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33If all those "if"s come good,
0:08:33 > 0:08:35then this can be pulled off.
0:08:37 > 0:08:39'It's a really bold plan
0:08:39 > 0:08:42'that could totally transform Cath and Rob's home,
0:08:42 > 0:08:45'but they're going to have to work out what's possible on their budget.'
0:08:51 > 0:08:52Over in Ipswich,
0:08:52 > 0:08:56another couple are struggling with lack of space in their home.
0:08:57 > 0:09:00Church of England reverend David and his wife Karen
0:09:00 > 0:09:02have just bought their first house together
0:09:02 > 0:09:05after 25 years living in church accommodation.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10All they could afford is a tiny two-bed Victorian terrace
0:09:10 > 0:09:14and it's a big change from the spacious vicarages they're used to.
0:09:16 > 0:09:18It is small. The rooms are tiny.
0:09:18 > 0:09:21I've always thought it's one room short.
0:09:21 > 0:09:23It needs one bigger room downstairs.
0:09:25 > 0:09:29Karen and David are used to big rooms in big homes.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32They long for one area to cook, eat and work from.
0:09:32 > 0:09:35But their new dining room is on a different level
0:09:35 > 0:09:37to the cramped kitchen, which spills out into the cellar
0:09:37 > 0:09:39on the level below.
0:09:39 > 0:09:43I like baking, but I can't fit everything in my kitchen
0:09:43 > 0:09:45because there's just not enough space.
0:09:45 > 0:09:47So I have to bake in the cellar.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50I'm always up and down...
0:09:50 > 0:09:53I've made it my little kitchen extension.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55And this small, gloomy cellar
0:09:55 > 0:09:58also doubles as David's home office.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00And so I'm always putting stuff on Dave's desk.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03The flour, the currants
0:10:03 > 0:10:05and all sort of things will suddenly land on my desk.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08Karen and David want to extend their cramped kitchen,
0:10:08 > 0:10:11doubling the space.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13And becoming a homeowner in his 50s,
0:10:13 > 0:10:16David has finally been unleashed to do his own DIY.
0:10:16 > 0:10:20We've already been researching how to load a wheelbarrow.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- There's an exciting one for you! - Yes.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25'But they've got just £10,000
0:10:25 > 0:10:28'to try and transform their small home.'
0:10:28 > 0:10:31It's been two and a half years of saving that
0:10:31 > 0:10:33and I don't want to waste what we've got.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37'For Karen and David, this is about much more
0:10:37 > 0:10:39'than mere bricks and mortar.'
0:10:39 > 0:10:42It's just something, almost the first time,
0:10:42 > 0:10:43that feels like it's ours.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46It's Dave and Karen's house, not the vicarage.
0:10:46 > 0:10:48And I'm really quite emotional about that.
0:10:48 > 0:10:49Sorry.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52It means a lot.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01Helping me transform these homes
0:11:01 > 0:11:04is my hand-picked team of architects.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06And taking on the challenge of David and Karen's house
0:11:06 > 0:11:08is Cheryl Pilliner-Reeves.
0:11:10 > 0:11:13The fact that they've lived in a really large vicarages
0:11:13 > 0:11:16changes their perception of what they expect of this small property.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19They don't have that space that they previously had
0:11:19 > 0:11:22and we're going to need to use every single inch
0:11:22 > 0:11:24to deliver what they want from it.
0:11:25 > 0:11:29Finding more space in this tiny house is a huge challenge
0:11:29 > 0:11:33and Cheryl needs to understand how Karen and David want to live in it.
0:11:33 > 0:11:35Round here is our dining room.
0:11:36 > 0:11:38So what's the issue here?
0:11:38 > 0:11:40It's really too small...
0:11:40 > 0:11:43When all our family and our friends come round, it is really difficult.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46We love socialising, we love having people round,
0:11:46 > 0:11:49but it is, it's really a squeeze.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53And down these stairs...
0:11:53 > 0:11:55is our very...
0:11:55 > 0:11:57tiny kitchen.
0:11:57 > 0:11:59- So it's a really...tight space.- Yes.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04The couple are desperate to knock down the outhouse in the back garden
0:12:04 > 0:12:07to extend the kitchen out further.
0:12:08 > 0:12:11Many homes across the country have additions like this.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14They block light out from the main house,
0:12:14 > 0:12:15making them gloomy and feel smaller.
0:12:16 > 0:12:20We'd love to be able to extend out because it gives a kitchen-diner,
0:12:20 > 0:12:23it makes great use of wonderful space, sunshine,
0:12:23 > 0:12:25and it connects that garden to the house.
0:12:26 > 0:12:29Karen and David may miss their old vicarages,
0:12:29 > 0:12:31but there's one thing they love about here.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35There are some wonderful rooftops and chimneys
0:12:35 > 0:12:38and the sunsets are incredible here.
0:12:38 > 0:12:42It's something we just can't enjoy at the moment.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44So how much do you have to do the project?
0:12:44 > 0:12:47We have got, actually, £10,000...
0:12:48 > 0:12:51- OK. That's quite a tall order. - It is.
0:12:51 > 0:12:53I know it's a big ask.
0:12:53 > 0:12:54We believe in a miracle!
0:12:57 > 0:13:00Bringing rooms situated on three different levels together
0:13:00 > 0:13:02could be complicated
0:13:02 > 0:13:04and easily cost tens of thousands of pounds.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09Cheryl has worked on multi-million pound schemes
0:13:09 > 0:13:12right down to small, clever alterations to existing buildings...
0:13:13 > 0:13:16In this apartment, she created split-level areas
0:13:16 > 0:13:18to increase the sense of space
0:13:18 > 0:13:21and furnished inexpensively with reclaimed items.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26Her biggest challenge here is to find a way to connect an extension
0:13:26 > 0:13:29to the other spaces that are separated by different levels...
0:13:32 > 0:13:37So I know you are keen to knock out your storage shed and build there.
0:13:37 > 0:13:38- Yup.- Yes.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41My issue with that is that I think you're going to end up
0:13:41 > 0:13:45with a very narrow, long kitchen.
0:13:46 > 0:13:50What I'd like to propose is that we go sideways
0:13:50 > 0:13:52to extend into your garden.
0:13:54 > 0:13:57As well as extending sideways,
0:13:57 > 0:13:59Cheryl wants to lower the kitchen floor
0:13:59 > 0:14:02and bring it to the same level as the new extension,
0:14:02 > 0:14:03creating one large kitchen-diner.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10I like the playfulness and the connectedness
0:14:10 > 0:14:12of how we are trying to connect it.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18New staircases will be the key move linking all the spaces together,
0:14:18 > 0:14:21including the dining room that becomes David's new office
0:14:21 > 0:14:23and the basement which becomes a snug.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29We'll have a small flight of stairs down to the kitchen
0:14:29 > 0:14:33and then we'll bring the staircase down to the basement this side...
0:14:34 > 0:14:37It's a bold move with one major drawback -
0:14:37 > 0:14:40sinking the kitchen floor means Karen could lose
0:14:40 > 0:14:42her beautiful views.
0:14:43 > 0:14:45- I think in my head... - SHE SNIFFS
0:14:45 > 0:14:48..I had thought I'd see the sunset
0:14:48 > 0:14:51and I won't see that.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54This isn't going to be that little pokey window you have there now.
0:14:54 > 0:14:56This window is going to be bigger.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59You'll be able to see through this window to that same view.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04The couple have a strong connection to the house
0:15:04 > 0:15:06and big changes can be scary.
0:15:06 > 0:15:07I just need to get my head round...
0:15:07 > 0:15:11Because it's quite a big change to where we were thinking of going.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14Because I'm managing all the finances,
0:15:14 > 0:15:18there's a part of me, kind of, a bit worried...
0:15:22 > 0:15:24Cheryl's plan is asking a lot of two amateurs
0:15:24 > 0:15:27with no experience of renovation.
0:15:27 > 0:15:29But the couple are brave enough to go for it.
0:15:31 > 0:15:34They start by preparing the ground for new foundations.
0:15:34 > 0:15:38This is a whacker that will, once we have got the hard-core on,
0:15:38 > 0:15:40it will push the hard-core down.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42MACHINE WHIRRS
0:15:42 > 0:15:44Karen and David have hired a builder
0:15:44 > 0:15:46and a structural engineer for advice on this journey.
0:15:46 > 0:15:49But they must be careful not to overstretch themselves
0:15:49 > 0:15:52if they're to avoid any nasty surprises.
0:15:53 > 0:15:56We don't know what we're doing, really.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58- Not brilliant, is it?- No.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01It's the fear that we won't do well or we'll make a big mistake
0:16:01 > 0:16:02and something will fall down.
0:16:14 > 0:16:16TOOLS TAP
0:16:16 > 0:16:19In Warwick, Cath and Rob have started work on their plan
0:16:19 > 0:16:22to transform their cramped, chaotic home.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25I'm just really happy they're taking the conservatory down now.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28I can't wait to see the nice big room we're going to have downstairs.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32But before they build the new extension,
0:16:32 > 0:16:35they need to think about how they'll make the most of the new space
0:16:35 > 0:16:38or they risk ending up with a chaotic muddle once more...
0:16:40 > 0:16:43How's it going with your build?
0:16:43 > 0:16:45- OK. - THEY LAUGH
0:16:45 > 0:16:49Well, it's OK, but we're, kind of, coming to crunch time now,
0:16:49 > 0:16:50really, with really making decisions.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53So I've arranged exclusive access to a house in North London
0:16:53 > 0:16:55that's full of architectural tricks
0:16:55 > 0:16:57that make it feel larger than its footprint.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00So this is the house I'm taking you to see.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02Oh, wow, it's amazing!
0:17:02 > 0:17:06I've brought you here, really, to show you how every square inch of a house
0:17:06 > 0:17:07needs to work really hard
0:17:07 > 0:17:10and actually be considered in terms of every detail.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- So let's go in and have a look.- OK.
0:17:16 > 0:17:17Oh, wow.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20It's so bright and light in here, isn't it?
0:17:24 > 0:17:27This house was originally built in the mid-'50s
0:17:27 > 0:17:29and it's recently been extended and remodelled
0:17:29 > 0:17:33to maximise the feeling of light and space in the building.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38It's not actually that big, but it feels like it's really big.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41- It gives a good sense of space, doesn't it?- Absolutely.
0:17:42 > 0:17:47Glass with frosted film allows natural light to fill the hallway
0:17:47 > 0:17:48and the space is clutter-free,
0:17:48 > 0:17:50thanks to built-in storage down one wall.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55In the spirit of every square inch being used effectively,
0:17:55 > 0:17:57this is really clever.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59So a mirror that actually is a cupboard.
0:17:59 > 0:18:02- So having your...- Absolutely. - ..coat and your hat and all that,
0:18:02 > 0:18:04just being able to put it there
0:18:04 > 0:18:07and have a mirror that's flush with the wall is really nice.
0:18:09 > 0:18:12If you build in storage rather than add cupboards or coat hooks,
0:18:12 > 0:18:16it becomes part of the architecture and doesn't dominate the space.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18It's a great trick for a clutter-free home.
0:18:21 > 0:18:25This door head is flush, it's actually wider than normal.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27This is a pair of doors, full height.
0:18:27 > 0:18:31- Being so wide and so high really gives you the sense of space, doesn't it? It's wonderful.- It does.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34You can see just how important something like that is.
0:18:34 > 0:18:38And then, when it comes down to the floor, there's no skirting,
0:18:38 > 0:18:41there's just a shadow gap that runs around.
0:18:41 > 0:18:45Keeping walls free of fussy finishes like coving and skirting
0:18:45 > 0:18:47can save on the cost of materials.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52They just don't have the clutter and the architraves of stuff
0:18:52 > 0:18:53going right in your eyes
0:18:53 > 0:18:56and using up precious bits and inches of space.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00The architects Lipton Plant have designed the house
0:19:00 > 0:19:02so you can see all the way from front to back,
0:19:02 > 0:19:05which makes it feel larger,
0:19:05 > 0:19:07as does the use of one type of flooring,
0:19:07 > 0:19:10laid here on an angle.
0:19:10 > 0:19:13This floor is great, the way it runs from there right the way through.
0:19:13 > 0:19:15It brings your eye out to the garden as well, doesn't it?
0:19:15 > 0:19:17It does, absolutely.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21This is so great because it's a piece of furniture
0:19:21 > 0:19:24that hangs off the wall on several metal brackets.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27- It's, kind of, floating, isn't it? - It does. Yes.
0:19:27 > 0:19:32The nicest thing is that the floor runs all the way underneath it, so this floats
0:19:32 > 0:19:34and there's none of that conventional...
0:19:34 > 0:19:36150 black kickplate...
0:19:36 > 0:19:39- Yes, which we have in our kitchen. - Most kitchens have those.
0:19:39 > 0:19:40Yes, exactly.
0:19:43 > 0:19:47Raising furniture up and allowing the floor to run underneath
0:19:47 > 0:19:49is a design trick that makes a room feel bigger
0:19:49 > 0:19:51by drawing the eye to its full width.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57You can do this with off-the-shelf kitchen units.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00It's a great way you can make a small kitchen feel larger.
0:20:01 > 0:20:05- It just adds to the airiness and the space.- It does.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08- These drawers are beautiful, as well. Look at this.- Oh, yes.
0:20:08 > 0:20:09There's a splash of colour inside.
0:20:09 > 0:20:10So this is pink,
0:20:10 > 0:20:12but you can't quite see the pink
0:20:12 > 0:20:15- until you see the yellow interestingly.- Yeah, yeah.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19Here, sliding doors bring light into the whole of the rear of the house.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22These high-end ones cost around 15K,
0:20:22 > 0:20:25but cheaper ones are widely available.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27This big opening is really nice, isn't it?
0:20:27 > 0:20:30I mean, particularly this great colour.
0:20:30 > 0:20:34I mean, yellow is a pretty bold choice for a window frame,
0:20:34 > 0:20:35but here it's beautiful,
0:20:35 > 0:20:38particularly because you see the yellow against the grey sky.
0:20:39 > 0:20:43Making window or door frames yellow is a really useful design trick.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45It gives the light a warm glow,
0:20:45 > 0:20:48brightening the room even on a dull, grey day.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52I would have thought having yellow doors would be awful,
0:20:52 > 0:20:54but actually seeing them in real life,
0:20:54 > 0:20:57they look great, they're a nice feature.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00The aluminium frames were powder-coated during manufacture.
0:21:00 > 0:21:03A cheaper way you can achieve the same effect
0:21:03 > 0:21:05is to use yellow paint on the window reveals.
0:21:11 > 0:21:12This room is great.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14This is an adult living room
0:21:14 > 0:21:17that you can effectively lock down and shut these doors.
0:21:17 > 0:21:20And instead of having a place which is the family room,
0:21:20 > 0:21:21the messy room where the kids go,
0:21:21 > 0:21:24actually, this is the adult retreat.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27I guess we need to think about where this happens in your house.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29To have a little snug where we can retreat to in the evening
0:21:29 > 0:21:33and have a sit and a cuddle on the sofa and a watch of the telly is great.
0:21:37 > 0:21:39This may be very different from your house,
0:21:39 > 0:21:41certainly in terms of the amount of the stuff -
0:21:41 > 0:21:44and I suspect you have far more stuff...
0:21:44 > 0:21:48But is it quite an eye-opener seeing how well-considered everything is here?
0:21:49 > 0:21:52Everything's clean lines here, I like it.
0:21:52 > 0:21:55In fact, there's no skirtings anywhere,
0:21:55 > 0:21:57every single piece of square inch of the house
0:21:57 > 0:22:00has been carefully thought through and works fantastically.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03That's our challenge.
0:22:16 > 0:22:17Back in Ipswich,
0:22:17 > 0:22:21costs are already spiralling on David and Karen's build
0:22:21 > 0:22:25and they've been hit with a bill of £1,200 to underpin the house.
0:22:25 > 0:22:27So to try and stay on budget,
0:22:27 > 0:22:31they're tackling as much of the work as they can.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34This is some of the soil -
0:22:34 > 0:22:37quite a bit of it - we dug out of the foundations.
0:22:37 > 0:22:41We've carried 82 bags of cement through the house
0:22:41 > 0:22:43and they are 25kg each bag.
0:22:43 > 0:22:46In here is where we have put all the ballast.
0:22:46 > 0:22:50We have carried, I think, about 16 bulk bags of ballast.
0:22:53 > 0:22:55But while knocking bricks out for steels,
0:22:55 > 0:22:57they hit another problem.
0:22:57 > 0:23:00It's just becoming a bit loose here.
0:23:00 > 0:23:02That wasn't like that.
0:23:02 > 0:23:05It was quite tight, so I think I'll ring my builder
0:23:05 > 0:23:08and let him know that my house is falling down!
0:23:08 > 0:23:12Naivety now could end up costing even more in the long term.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15Everything Karen and David touch must be checked
0:23:15 > 0:23:19and rechecked by the builder, as well as building control.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22Just to let you know, some of the bricks are dropping.
0:23:22 > 0:23:25Can you just let me know that that's OK
0:23:25 > 0:23:27or if there's anything you want me to do?
0:23:28 > 0:23:31You can't question the couple's dedication,
0:23:31 > 0:23:34but there's a chance they could burn out before this build is complete,
0:23:34 > 0:23:37especially when David can't focus on the final vision.
0:23:38 > 0:23:40I'm struggling with it.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42That's a lovely room, so... Until we see it...
0:23:42 > 0:23:46Cos, obviously you are just knocking everything down, so you can't tell what it's going to be...
0:23:46 > 0:23:50So you're more aware of what you're losing than what you're gaining cos you can't see it yet.
0:23:52 > 0:23:56We need to find a way to help them see what all their efforts could achieve
0:23:56 > 0:23:59before the drudgery of the build makes them want to call it a day.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02I'm massively worried about them,
0:24:02 > 0:24:04because now they've started the project
0:24:04 > 0:24:08and they're getting quite tired with the actual physical work required of them,
0:24:08 > 0:24:11they might actually start to lose motivation.
0:24:11 > 0:24:14It is really hard work physically to do this building.
0:24:14 > 0:24:16It's really hard and also, in a way,
0:24:16 > 0:24:20the big architectural idea of these interlinked spaces on different levels
0:24:20 > 0:24:22is quite a difficult thing to understand.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24I suspect if they could visualise all of this
0:24:24 > 0:24:27and see what the endgame was, see what they were getting,
0:24:27 > 0:24:30- then, actually, they may become remotivated and reinspired. - Absolutely.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35I've gained exclusive access to a house in Warwickshire
0:24:35 > 0:24:38which I think shows how split-level living can work,
0:24:38 > 0:24:41combined with inspirational lighting tricks.
0:24:47 > 0:24:49Wow!
0:24:49 > 0:24:51Amazing.
0:24:51 > 0:24:53It's great.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56I just like the hidden light.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58It just shows the roof off.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04I mean, it's really interesting that the space is lit,
0:25:04 > 0:25:07rather than there being lots of lights.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10This lighting is beautiful because it shows the shape of the roof.
0:25:10 > 0:25:12- It does.- Beautiful.- It's very nice.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17Concealed lighting is a great design trick
0:25:17 > 0:25:19for making a room feel light and bright.
0:25:19 > 0:25:21It can add a sense of drama,
0:25:21 > 0:25:23illuminating key parts of the architecture of a building
0:25:23 > 0:25:25or even allude to hidden spaces.
0:25:28 > 0:25:30It doesn't need to cost a fortune.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33You can create it using inexpensive fluorescent tubes.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36The important thing is to plan it early on in a project,
0:25:36 > 0:25:39so you can build in the recesses needed to hide the fittings.
0:25:41 > 0:25:45- The stone...- Yeah.- ..connects you to...the outside of the...
0:25:46 > 0:25:48- It's the walls of the building. - It is, absolutely.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54Strict planning restrictions led the architects Baynes & Co
0:25:54 > 0:25:57to design this clever retractable stone wall,
0:25:57 > 0:26:00so the owners could insert larger windows.
0:26:00 > 0:26:02It's beautiful from both sides
0:26:02 > 0:26:05and allows light to sneak through gaps in stonework,
0:26:05 > 0:26:07as well as views out.
0:26:07 > 0:26:11It's amazing, in the tiny holes you can actually see outside.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14Yeah, you just get glimpses, you get bits of green, bits of sky...
0:26:14 > 0:26:16But you can see it... That's so clever.
0:26:18 > 0:26:22You can achieve similar results through the use of acid-etched glass,
0:26:22 > 0:26:24frosted glass or even stained glass.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28But I think the other really exciting opportunity for you
0:26:28 > 0:26:31in your house is the change in level.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34And, in a way, it's a little bit like this, isn't it?
0:26:34 > 0:26:36And these stairs are beautiful, aren't they?
0:26:38 > 0:26:41'The oversized stairs are a destination in this house.'
0:26:43 > 0:26:46These are places where you would linger and...
0:26:46 > 0:26:47And you sit!
0:26:47 > 0:26:51- It's another seating area, isn't it? - It is, absolutely.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53While this set is made of limestone tiles
0:26:53 > 0:26:55and cost two grand to build,
0:26:55 > 0:26:57you can create chunky steps using cheaper materials,
0:26:57 > 0:27:01like concrete or even recycled railway sleepers.
0:27:02 > 0:27:05- It's like being in an amphitheatre...- It is, isn't it?
0:27:05 > 0:27:06..watching.
0:27:06 > 0:27:08Equivalently, when you come down here,
0:27:08 > 0:27:11you can sort of be in three spaces at once.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15In your house there's really a set of spaces
0:27:15 > 0:27:17that are connected by a set of staircases.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20And you're ending up with in-between spaces like these
0:27:20 > 0:27:23that are really rich and interesting.
0:27:23 > 0:27:25I think this house, like yours,
0:27:25 > 0:27:28gives you unexpected glimpses of things as you move around...
0:27:28 > 0:27:31- It does.- ..unexpected views into different areas,
0:27:31 > 0:27:33but also unexpected views outside.
0:27:33 > 0:27:37It's a house full of surprises, actually.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40By taking in the principles found in the light, space
0:27:40 > 0:27:42and stairs in this property,
0:27:42 > 0:27:45Karen and David can make their multi-level home work.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50Now we begin to see the space appear at home,
0:27:50 > 0:27:52you begin to use your imagination.
0:27:52 > 0:27:53This just lifts it.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56You think, "Ah, could we use that?" without slavishly copying it.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08In Warwick, the build is progressing.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11The extension walls have gone up
0:28:11 > 0:28:13and the builders have removed the old back wall
0:28:13 > 0:28:16to create the new open-plan living and dining area.
0:28:22 > 0:28:26I'm heading back to see Cath and Rob at this critical point of the build.
0:28:26 > 0:28:28With the ground floor opened up,
0:28:28 > 0:28:31my challenge now is to help them to find what it's for...
0:28:31 > 0:28:33- Hi, guys. How are you doing?- Hi.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36- Nice to see you.- Great to see you. - Thanks for coming over again.
0:28:36 > 0:28:37Look at this, it's amazing.
0:28:37 > 0:28:40- It is.- It's a big space, isn't it? - It's huge!
0:28:40 > 0:28:44- We're bit worried now about what we're going to do with it, actually! - THEY LAUGH
0:28:44 > 0:28:48'They've already got some ideas about how they want to use the room...'
0:28:48 > 0:28:51It is a long table and it is going to go here.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Maybe even something here to draw the kitchen and the,
0:28:54 > 0:28:56- you know, the dining area together. - A big fridge going there.
0:28:56 > 0:28:58Storage all the way along here.
0:28:58 > 0:29:01I was thinking of hanging pendants or something over the table.
0:29:01 > 0:29:04A kind of breakfast bar, islandy thing here...
0:29:04 > 0:29:07My head is already spinning with the amount of different things
0:29:07 > 0:29:09that you are going to cram in to these spaces.
0:29:09 > 0:29:13How do you not let this just be a sea of chairs and stuff?
0:29:13 > 0:29:16I think what we ought to just draw it on the wall.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19Just plan it out, move this sofa...
0:29:19 > 0:29:22I want them to remember the lessons from the London house
0:29:22 > 0:29:25about clever storage and making the most of every inch of space.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29You were describing that actually you want your kitchen table along here
0:29:29 > 0:29:31and it wants to be a BIG kitchen table...
0:29:31 > 0:29:33It is a big kitchen table. We've bought it.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Extends to three metres ten.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39So... It's that, kind of scale, isn't it?
0:29:39 > 0:29:44What about building a bench or something around that space...?
0:29:44 > 0:29:47That you could build in a beautiful place to sit,
0:29:47 > 0:29:51so that this is a bench where, you know, you would sit there...
0:29:51 > 0:29:52Do you see what I mean?
0:29:52 > 0:29:55At a table that was there
0:29:55 > 0:29:57and around you is storage.
0:29:59 > 0:30:01There's no reason then
0:30:01 > 0:30:04that you can't start to do something amazing with colour.
0:30:06 > 0:30:08'Building in storage and a bench seat
0:30:08 > 0:30:10'is a really efficient use of space
0:30:10 > 0:30:13'and a great way to define the dining part of the room.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15'My tip for doing this in your own home
0:30:15 > 0:30:19'is to find a really good local joiner or carpenter.'
0:30:19 > 0:30:21It's not something that we considered at all.
0:30:21 > 0:30:24But that drawing there makes it look amazing, you can really visualise it.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27It's functional, it looks great and it gives you exciting ideas
0:30:27 > 0:30:29of how you can introduce colour and light.
0:30:29 > 0:30:31OK, so what about materials?
0:30:31 > 0:30:35I think it's really interesting that spaces are unified
0:30:35 > 0:30:37by having one material that runs through.
0:30:37 > 0:30:39- We're governed by costs...- Yep.
0:30:39 > 0:30:43..and so we've been looking at the obvious options of OSB or plywood.
0:30:43 > 0:30:44Plywood is really cheap.
0:30:44 > 0:30:47- I have a plywood floor because it is super cheap...- Sure. - ..and it looks great.
0:30:47 > 0:30:49It ages beautifully.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52As it gets older, it looks great, as well.
0:30:52 > 0:30:55'Plywood's a really cheap material for a floor
0:30:55 > 0:30:58'and costs from around £11 a square metre.'
0:30:58 > 0:31:01Running this beautiful grid of plywood through would be amazing.
0:31:01 > 0:31:03Exactly. Would it be plywood overload
0:31:03 > 0:31:06if we had the storage made out of plywood, as well?
0:31:06 > 0:31:09I think that plywood on both could look amazing.
0:31:19 > 0:31:22Back in Ipswich, unexpected costs are still mounting up.
0:31:25 > 0:31:28Karen and David need ten steel beams to support the building
0:31:28 > 0:31:32and it's costing them an additional £2,700.
0:31:32 > 0:31:35They've already blown their 10K budget.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37So far we've spent over 12,000.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42It's kept us awake at night...
0:31:42 > 0:31:44Yes.
0:31:44 > 0:31:47Karen and David can continue with money borrowed from family,
0:31:47 > 0:31:50but builder Ralph sees how the increasing costs
0:31:50 > 0:31:52are taking their toll on the couple.
0:31:52 > 0:31:54They have been stressed, yes.
0:31:54 > 0:31:57I heard Karen on the phone in tears.
0:31:57 > 0:32:00But this plucky couple aren't going to give up on their dream
0:32:00 > 0:32:01and they push on with the plan,
0:32:01 > 0:32:04opening up the basement to link up the rooms.
0:32:05 > 0:32:07- I need to leave that wall.- Yes.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09And I don't what the ceiling falling on me...
0:32:11 > 0:32:15The couple are now worried about David's new office.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17Once the new extension is built,
0:32:17 > 0:32:21it will no longer look out onto the garden and risks being dark.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23Cheryl's back to find a solution to link the office
0:32:23 > 0:32:25to the extended kitchen beyond.
0:32:26 > 0:32:29We want to talk about this space here.
0:32:31 > 0:32:33There's going to be a slit window at the top.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36But it's also about this looking good from both sides.
0:32:36 > 0:32:38So it's got to look good from the study side,
0:32:38 > 0:32:39I'd like it to open.
0:32:41 > 0:32:43As well as needing light in the room,
0:32:43 > 0:32:45David also want some privacy while he works.
0:32:46 > 0:32:50There could be an opportunity to enclose the room
0:32:50 > 0:32:54through using a transparent or translucent glazing.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56You could have frosted or acid-etched,
0:32:56 > 0:32:58or you could even use glass blocks.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01There's a bit of privacy provided by that.
0:33:01 > 0:33:05Cheryl might have found a solution right under their noses...
0:33:05 > 0:33:09It may be, if there was some way of using the glazing...
0:33:09 > 0:33:10That might be interesting.
0:33:12 > 0:33:15Karen's recycled stained-glass is a great way to let light in,
0:33:15 > 0:33:18while retaining privacy.
0:33:18 > 0:33:20It would also be an opportunity to add some character
0:33:20 > 0:33:22to David's desk area.
0:33:23 > 0:33:28So one thing I think that could act as a good separator
0:33:28 > 0:33:31is just a half-height screen,
0:33:31 > 0:33:37whereby you're able to not see past the screen when you're sitting,
0:33:37 > 0:33:40and then, when you are standing, you can.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42It would bring colour and light into this room.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45I quite like that, it's a clever idea.
0:33:45 > 0:33:50I like the idea that you are actually using the stained glass in here.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Cheryl's suggesting using a continuous piece of wood
0:33:53 > 0:33:55to create David's desk.
0:33:55 > 0:33:58Fitting it against the wall would save space.
0:33:58 > 0:34:01What I really like is the framing of it.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06Cheryl's given them the vision for the study window.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09Now she wants to help them with the new staircases.
0:34:09 > 0:34:14Karen and David only have £600 to spend on two new sets of stairs.
0:34:14 > 0:34:16It's not a lot,
0:34:16 > 0:34:18so she's taking Karen to a timber merchant.
0:34:18 > 0:34:22- So many options...- Yes. - ..so many choices.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24There are places like this all around the country
0:34:24 > 0:34:27and they stock a much wider range of timber
0:34:27 > 0:34:28than can be found at DIY stores.
0:34:30 > 0:34:34One way which we could achieve that really lovely chunky timber effect
0:34:34 > 0:34:37could be in using sleepers.
0:34:37 > 0:34:40Wow, they're definitely chunky!
0:34:40 > 0:34:43The great thing about them is that they cost very little.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46Planed - £32 plus VAT.
0:34:46 > 0:34:47OK.
0:34:47 > 0:34:50Sawn - £22 plus VAT.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53Probably...for about 12m in length,
0:34:53 > 0:34:56you are going to be looking at £260.
0:34:56 > 0:34:59OK, it is like steps immediately, isn't it?
0:34:59 > 0:35:01- It's like the instant staircase. - Yes.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05All stairs must be agreed with building control
0:35:05 > 0:35:07and made professionally.
0:35:07 > 0:35:10The cost of sawn sleepers would leave them with enough money
0:35:10 > 0:35:12for their carpenter to build them.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15I'm really hoping that with Tom's help, the carpenter,
0:35:15 > 0:35:17we're going to be able to pull this budget together
0:35:17 > 0:35:21and really deliver everything that Karen and David need for the staircase.
0:35:31 > 0:35:33Back in Warwick, the builders are converting the loft
0:35:33 > 0:35:36into Cath and Rob's new master bedroom.
0:35:36 > 0:35:38This build is a massive project
0:35:38 > 0:35:41and they've already spent nearly 40K of their 55 grand budget.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46On the ground floor, the interior fit is underway.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48The plywood floor has been laid
0:35:48 > 0:35:51and the storage units are being constructed by their carpenter.
0:35:51 > 0:35:55He made all the cabinets out of MDF because it was the cheapest thing to do
0:35:55 > 0:35:59and created this lovely built-in storage for us.
0:35:59 > 0:36:02I can't wait to see all the records up there.
0:36:02 > 0:36:06Other places you can build in space-saving storage in a house or flat
0:36:06 > 0:36:09include alcoves either side of a chimney breast,
0:36:09 > 0:36:12under the stairs and in a bay window as a window seat.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19Now Cath and Rob need to tackle the next stage of my plan
0:36:19 > 0:36:22to transform their home - the porch.
0:36:22 > 0:36:25We've spent a lot of time getting the interior ready
0:36:25 > 0:36:29and really we haven't thought about the outside, so it's really important.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32We are now concentrating on getting the porch built.
0:36:32 > 0:36:34But we're not quite sure what covering,
0:36:34 > 0:36:36what it's going to be made of.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40'The advice of the local planning authority should be sought
0:36:40 > 0:36:43'before undertaking external work to a property.
0:36:43 > 0:36:46'I want to help Cath and Rob create something out of the ordinary.
0:36:48 > 0:36:49'So I am taking them to a company
0:36:49 > 0:36:52'that specialises in materials for the construction industry.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56'There are trade warehouses like this all around the country
0:36:56 > 0:36:59'and many welcome members of the public,
0:36:59 > 0:37:01'but it's always worth calling ahead to check.'
0:37:01 > 0:37:03- Hi, Cath. Hi, Rob.- Hello.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05How are you doing?
0:37:05 > 0:37:07So I've brought you here to talk about your porch.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10You need something that works beautifully,
0:37:10 > 0:37:12but actually lifts the whole building.
0:37:12 > 0:37:15You need a piece of architecture on the front of your house, don't you?
0:37:15 > 0:37:17You don't need what everyone else does.
0:37:17 > 0:37:21Making it different, quirky and just a real stand-out feature of the house
0:37:21 > 0:37:24is something we're really hoping to achieve.
0:37:24 > 0:37:26It's the white plastic that we need to get rid of
0:37:26 > 0:37:28and it's white plastic that most people use.
0:37:28 > 0:37:31And I think you need a material that's equally durable,
0:37:31 > 0:37:33but actually is far more beautiful.
0:37:35 > 0:37:38'I want them to consider products normally used
0:37:38 > 0:37:40'by just the construction trade -
0:37:40 > 0:37:42'high-performance cladding board.'
0:37:42 > 0:37:46So, I guess, in a way this is like MDF, but an external grade of MDF,
0:37:46 > 0:37:49made not out of wood, but out of cement.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53Actually this is great material because it lasts indefinitely.
0:37:53 > 0:37:57'Cladding board costs from around £35 per square metre
0:37:57 > 0:37:59'and it doesn't just come in basic grey.'
0:37:59 > 0:38:02I mean, I think you COULD use a bit of colour.
0:38:02 > 0:38:06I think a bit of colour at your house would really lift it.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09Actually, '60s buildings use colour really effectively.
0:38:09 > 0:38:12- What do you think about an orange porch?- Yes, I wouldn't rule it out.
0:38:12 > 0:38:13- Wouldn't you?- No.
0:38:13 > 0:38:16- OK!- Would you?- I think...
0:38:16 > 0:38:19I think I probably would rule it out, actually. Yeah...
0:38:19 > 0:38:20There are more muted.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24- I mean, this blue is nice. - I really like that, it's lovely.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27And dark grey looks really good with this orange.
0:38:27 > 0:38:30You can see putting a darker colour next to it looks really good.
0:38:30 > 0:38:31Yes, it does.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37'Cladding board can be used inside or outside your house.
0:38:37 > 0:38:39'It could work as a splashback or even in a wet room.
0:38:41 > 0:38:43'These are all offcuts
0:38:43 > 0:38:46'and I've arranged for Cath and Rob to take what's going spare.'
0:38:46 > 0:38:49Yes, so the great thing about places like this is
0:38:49 > 0:38:51they have all this fantastic stuff lying around
0:38:51 > 0:38:53that is usually free.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- All this stuff here we could literally pick up and lift away? - Yes.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01So we can have a multicoloured, kaleidoscopic,
0:39:01 > 0:39:04- psychedelic porch... - If you wanted...! - ..if we really wanted to?
0:39:04 > 0:39:07- Yes. Cos this is free, this is free material.- OK.
0:39:08 > 0:39:10'It's always worth approaching places
0:39:10 > 0:39:13'to see if you can get building materials for nothing.'
0:39:13 > 0:39:16I mean, I have always had in my mind
0:39:16 > 0:39:19something that has a top that tapers...
0:39:19 > 0:39:22I guess if we were to talk about colour now,
0:39:22 > 0:39:24I think I've always liked the idea
0:39:24 > 0:39:28of doing something very, very bright on the inside
0:39:28 > 0:39:31and doing the rest of it in quite a subdued colour.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33I mean, what do you think about doing that?
0:39:33 > 0:39:36What I really like, Piers, is that it's an unusual shape.
0:39:36 > 0:39:39It's got an angle porch and it is a porch inside a porch, if you like.
0:39:39 > 0:39:40It's quite unusual.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44I guess I'm a little bit more comfortable with the colour being...
0:39:44 > 0:39:46- inside a bit rather than...- Yes.
0:39:46 > 0:39:48You know...
0:39:48 > 0:39:50Beaming like a beacon in the rest of the street.
0:39:51 > 0:39:53I've given them the vision,
0:39:53 > 0:39:56but it's up to the couple to take things forward from here.
0:40:03 > 0:40:05In Ipswich, three months into the build,
0:40:05 > 0:40:07the shell of the extension is complete
0:40:07 > 0:40:09and David and Karen and the builders
0:40:09 > 0:40:11are pressing on with the interior fit.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16They've now spent a whopping 18 grand,
0:40:16 > 0:40:19but they're determined to at least finish the stairs...
0:40:20 > 0:40:24Inspired by their trips to the Warwickshire house and the timber yard,
0:40:24 > 0:40:27they're going for a chunky railway sleeper design.
0:40:28 > 0:40:31That was the rail that went down,
0:40:31 > 0:40:34the original rail going down into the cellar.
0:40:34 > 0:40:37So it's really lovely to be recycling it.
0:40:37 > 0:40:41They're also being as thrifty as possible with fixtures and fittings.
0:40:41 > 0:40:45This is my beautiful Belfast sink
0:40:45 > 0:40:48that I got off an auction site for £10.
0:40:49 > 0:40:54They've also sourced the wood to make David's desk in the office for £175.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57This is a bit of wood that Karen found,
0:40:57 > 0:40:59reclamation yard.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02I think it's an old bar, so we are going to sand it up a bit.
0:41:02 > 0:41:04It needs a little bit of repair.
0:41:04 > 0:41:08We are going to cut it into it so it will sit into the window.
0:41:08 > 0:41:11But a lot of it, even though it is so long, a lot of it we're using.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15The couple have pushed themselves to the limit
0:41:15 > 0:41:19physically and financially in the hope of transforming their house.
0:41:19 > 0:41:23I am really tired and we've just got quite a lot of work to do.
0:41:25 > 0:41:29So have they managed to turn this tiny terrace into a connected, light-filled home?
0:41:38 > 0:41:42Karen and David have had lots of unexpected costs on this project,
0:41:42 > 0:41:44but five months after her first visit,
0:41:44 > 0:41:47Cheryl has returned to see how far they've got.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52The thing I'm really excited about seeing how they've resolved
0:41:52 > 0:41:56is the transition as we go down those level changes
0:41:56 > 0:41:59through the kitchen into that new area where the extension is
0:41:59 > 0:42:02and then down into the new snug...
0:42:03 > 0:42:06EVERYONE: Hello!
0:42:06 > 0:42:09- Lovely to see you.- How lovely to see you.- Hello.
0:42:09 > 0:42:10Lovely to see you.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12Lovely to see you.
0:42:12 > 0:42:14So how are you feeling? How's it been?
0:42:14 > 0:42:16We are exhausted.
0:42:16 > 0:42:17We are tired.
0:42:17 > 0:42:19So I can't wait to see it.
0:42:19 > 0:42:21Come on in, come and see it.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25Before the house was a series of small rooms,
0:42:25 > 0:42:28all cut off from each other.
0:42:28 > 0:42:30The kitchen was tiny and impractical,
0:42:30 > 0:42:34the basement cramped and David lacked a study.
0:42:34 > 0:42:37Cheryl's plan was to extend the house sideways
0:42:37 > 0:42:40and connect the spaces with a series of staircases.
0:42:40 > 0:42:42So has this transformed the house?
0:42:51 > 0:42:52This is fantastic!
0:42:52 > 0:42:54What do you feel?
0:42:54 > 0:42:57It's space. It's like, it's huge.
0:42:57 > 0:42:59It just feels, like...!
0:42:59 > 0:43:01It's real, I can breathe, it's big.
0:43:03 > 0:43:07The extended kitchen is now a large, well-proportioned room.
0:43:07 > 0:43:10Lowering the floor level has made the ceiling height more generous
0:43:10 > 0:43:13and new windows have improved the connection with the outside.
0:43:15 > 0:43:18- And the views out to your wonderful chimney pots!- Yes.
0:43:18 > 0:43:20I can see them now.
0:43:20 > 0:43:23- Yes, and the rooftops. - Yes. That's fantastic.
0:43:24 > 0:43:26It's great.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28Light also now pours in from above.
0:43:30 > 0:43:32And here's this fantastic roof light, the extra addition
0:43:32 > 0:43:35to be able to bring light further into the main part of the house.
0:43:35 > 0:43:38And here - it's one of my favourite parts, where you're stood now,
0:43:38 > 0:43:41is one of my favourite places, just to stand there.
0:43:41 > 0:43:44They've cleverly placed their dining area in the best part of the room
0:43:44 > 0:43:48making it the natural place for family to congregate when they visit.
0:43:50 > 0:43:52This is a big space to have all my family.
0:43:52 > 0:43:55They can all fit in here and I'm going to be a grandmother very soon.
0:43:55 > 0:43:58- Congratulations.- I know!
0:43:58 > 0:44:01So I'm going to have grandchildren so it's perfect,
0:44:01 > 0:44:04because when I am looking after them, we can all be here.
0:44:05 > 0:44:08David and Karen have invested money in the big changes
0:44:08 > 0:44:11and then saved by reusing parts of their old kitchen,
0:44:11 > 0:44:13supplementing with recycled finds.
0:44:14 > 0:44:17This is my £10 sink.
0:44:17 > 0:44:19It came with taps, as well.
0:44:19 > 0:44:21What a fantastic buy!
0:44:21 > 0:44:23A carpenter made this for me
0:44:23 > 0:44:25and then, yes, on an auction site,
0:44:25 > 0:44:29I got this drainer for £30.
0:44:29 > 0:44:31This kitchen hasn't cost me very much.
0:44:31 > 0:44:33All these elements coming together
0:44:33 > 0:44:34and they're a part of your story.
0:44:36 > 0:44:39But the biggest success is how the different areas are now connected,
0:44:39 > 0:44:42making the small home feel much bigger.
0:44:43 > 0:44:46How does it feel now that you have all these different views through?
0:44:46 > 0:44:49You get so many different angles. You can be sat on the sofa,
0:44:49 > 0:44:52we were this morning, and you're looking out that way
0:44:52 > 0:44:55and you're looking right the way through, which we couldn't do before.
0:44:55 > 0:44:57And you can see it all. I'm amazed.
0:44:59 > 0:45:02- Ah, this is fantastic.- Ah, good.
0:45:02 > 0:45:05What a great space you've made down here.
0:45:05 > 0:45:07It's really lovely.
0:45:07 > 0:45:09It's a great cosy snug.
0:45:11 > 0:45:14With white walls and clever lighting,
0:45:14 > 0:45:16the cellar feels bright, yet cosy.
0:45:16 > 0:45:20Tying the levels together are bespoke chunky stairs,
0:45:20 > 0:45:22which are still work in progress.
0:45:22 > 0:45:24This is very similar to what we were talking about
0:45:24 > 0:45:26when we went to the timber yard.
0:45:26 > 0:45:29I liked the idea and I liked the solid thickness of it.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32They're very solid, very chunky.
0:45:32 > 0:45:37The two sets of stairs cost just £550 in total.
0:45:37 > 0:45:40We still, obviously, need the balustrades in
0:45:40 > 0:45:43and I'm having tension wire infills.
0:45:43 > 0:45:46You've got your brick floor, your timber sleeper staircase.
0:45:46 > 0:45:49Together it will all have a very, kind of, earthy feeling.
0:45:52 > 0:45:54This is a world away from the old dark cellar
0:45:54 > 0:45:56where David used to work.
0:45:56 > 0:45:59But now he has a new office in the room above.
0:46:00 > 0:46:01Oh, this is a lovely room.
0:46:05 > 0:46:08So this is where you are sitting to study and work now.
0:46:08 > 0:46:10Yes, it's a lovely space to be in.
0:46:10 > 0:46:12You get the light coming through.
0:46:12 > 0:46:14I really like the way from this view
0:46:14 > 0:46:18you actually have this sense of being able to see straight out through that upper panel.
0:46:18 > 0:46:21Yes, what I feared was I wouldn't get hardly any light in here at all.
0:46:21 > 0:46:23Actually it's completely the opposite,
0:46:23 > 0:46:25you get quite a lot of light.
0:46:25 > 0:46:29I think this feature of using the stained glass that you had found is wonderful.
0:46:29 > 0:46:31It's really decorative in the room.
0:46:31 > 0:46:34And even though you only have a peek of it above the desk,
0:46:34 > 0:46:37it's just a bit of colour and pattern...
0:46:37 > 0:46:40and obviously below the desk, as well.
0:46:40 > 0:46:42It really livens up this opening.
0:46:42 > 0:46:44It does, it makes a feature out of it.
0:46:46 > 0:46:49The reclaimed bar helps add a sense of quality and history.
0:46:50 > 0:46:53I love the fact it's such a strong clear line
0:46:53 > 0:46:55across from end to end of the wall
0:46:55 > 0:46:57and there's no support.
0:46:57 > 0:47:00It just makes it so much more generous.
0:47:00 > 0:47:03So from being enclosed here and separate from the kitchen and dining space,
0:47:03 > 0:47:06you can then open this window -
0:47:06 > 0:47:08and that's great -
0:47:08 > 0:47:11- and become part of the activity. - Yeah.- That's lovely.
0:47:12 > 0:47:15Karen and David have worked tirelessly on this build
0:47:15 > 0:47:18and have managed to pull off the miracle they were praying for.
0:47:19 > 0:47:21I was worried about you taking on this project
0:47:21 > 0:47:24because obviously there was a lot of building work involved
0:47:24 > 0:47:27- and this is your first building project.- BOTH: Yes.
0:47:27 > 0:47:29It has been exhausting.
0:47:29 > 0:47:30It's been enjoyable, as well,
0:47:30 > 0:47:32because we've been learning new skills.
0:47:32 > 0:47:35- We never thought we would do what we've done, did we?- No.
0:47:35 > 0:47:38And I know all the different types of concrete there is.
0:47:38 > 0:47:40I love making concrete.
0:47:40 > 0:47:42And I love cleaning bricks.
0:47:46 > 0:47:50So you had a £10,000 budget and I'd like to know how you got on.
0:47:51 > 0:47:53Well, we've gone way over the budget,
0:47:53 > 0:47:57but I know... I know that the budget was unrealistic.
0:47:57 > 0:47:58Um...
0:47:58 > 0:48:02We have spent...£23,000...
0:48:02 > 0:48:05£24,000...
0:48:05 > 0:48:06That's everything.
0:48:06 > 0:48:08We had saved £10,000
0:48:08 > 0:48:11and then my sister
0:48:11 > 0:48:14gave us a loan for another ten.
0:48:14 > 0:48:16And then...
0:48:16 > 0:48:19the rest has been my wages each month.
0:48:19 > 0:48:23Just an extension alone could be between £25,000-£30,000.
0:48:23 > 0:48:26The structural work for the basement,
0:48:26 > 0:48:28that could have been another £10,000, £15,000, £20,000.
0:48:28 > 0:48:30The savings you've made
0:48:30 > 0:48:35and the amount you've journeyed to make this home yours is fantastic.
0:48:35 > 0:48:37You feel part of this house,
0:48:37 > 0:48:38it's part of you and your story.
0:48:38 > 0:48:41I actually feel quite proud and emotional about it
0:48:41 > 0:48:45- and it's something I feel privileged to invite people round to.- Yeah.
0:48:45 > 0:48:47I want to share it.
0:48:47 > 0:48:50- Yes, we've already got people booked in for dinner. - THEY ALL LAUGH
0:48:53 > 0:48:55From a muddled and frustrating home,
0:48:55 > 0:48:59Karen and David finally have their own spaces,
0:48:59 > 0:49:00but also ones can enjoy together.
0:49:02 > 0:49:04I haven't made a cake for ages.
0:49:04 > 0:49:06- It's fantastic.- Isn't it beautiful.
0:49:19 > 0:49:21With the structural work complete,
0:49:21 > 0:49:25it's the final push to complete the interior of Cath and Rob's house.
0:49:25 > 0:49:29And having learnt design lessons, they're determined to avoid bog-standard finishes...
0:49:30 > 0:49:32It's called Moroccan Flame,
0:49:32 > 0:49:34but basically it's just bright orange.
0:49:34 > 0:49:37This is completely outside our comfort zone.
0:49:37 > 0:49:39We always go for magnolia or beige or something like that.
0:49:41 > 0:49:43We want something different, we want to be a bit brave.
0:49:45 > 0:49:48Now the builders have to tackle the part of the project
0:49:48 > 0:49:51that will hopefully make the most impact - the porch...
0:49:53 > 0:49:55As a result of our trip to the warehouse,
0:49:55 > 0:49:57the couple have decided to construct it
0:49:57 > 0:50:00from offcuts of laminated particle board,
0:50:00 > 0:50:02but the builders are unfamiliar with this product.
0:50:04 > 0:50:08I've never used this material before. It's quite unusual.
0:50:08 > 0:50:11I, kind of, learn more about this stuff as we go on.
0:50:11 > 0:50:13DRILL WHIRRS
0:50:14 > 0:50:17Rob arrives back home to see what the builders are doing.
0:50:17 > 0:50:21- There's a lot of layers of cladding and stuff, isn't there?- Yeah.
0:50:21 > 0:50:24I thought we were just going to have a simple timber frame
0:50:24 > 0:50:26- with a bit of this shoved on the front.- Yes.
0:50:29 > 0:50:32The offcuts have cost Cath and Rob nothing,
0:50:32 > 0:50:35but they've had to go with whatever colour the company had spare.
0:50:35 > 0:50:38The new porch will dominate the front of the house,
0:50:38 > 0:50:40so will their brave decision pay off?
0:50:41 > 0:50:44With the colour, I'm sure I'll get used to it.
0:50:44 > 0:50:46Yeah, it's quite a statement, really.
0:50:57 > 0:51:01Eight months after my first visit, I'm back in Warwick.
0:51:01 > 0:51:05Cath and Rob had issues with their home that I think many of us could recognise.
0:51:05 > 0:51:08Because they'd been in it for such a long time,
0:51:08 > 0:51:10their needs had changed with a growing family,
0:51:10 > 0:51:11but their home hadn't.
0:51:11 > 0:51:14With that, their home had become completely unloved.
0:51:16 > 0:51:18Previously the outside of the house was dated and uninviting...
0:51:20 > 0:51:22So has a new porch made all the difference?
0:51:23 > 0:51:26- Hi, Cath. Hi, Rob.- Hi, how are you? - How are you doing?
0:51:28 > 0:51:31- Look at this!- I know.- Amazing.
0:51:31 > 0:51:33This big blue thing stuck to the front of our house!
0:51:33 > 0:51:35Made out of a very bright colour.
0:51:35 > 0:51:37It's beautiful, it's great, isn't it? BOTH: Yes.
0:51:39 > 0:51:43'The porch has been made of free offcuts of laminated particle board.
0:51:43 > 0:51:46'Labour and other materials came in at under £1,000.'
0:51:49 > 0:51:51I think the colour with the brick is fantastic.
0:51:51 > 0:51:54It's definitely going to stand out on the street.
0:51:54 > 0:51:55It is...going to stand out.
0:51:55 > 0:51:57And it's also solved another storage issue.
0:51:57 > 0:51:59You did have a very narrow corridor.
0:51:59 > 0:52:02Yes, and only a small shoe cupboard, as well.
0:52:02 > 0:52:03And so we can chuck a load of it out here now.
0:52:03 > 0:52:05So if you've done this on the outside,
0:52:05 > 0:52:07I can't wait to see what you've done on the inside...
0:52:07 > 0:52:11- Looking forward to showing you. Come on in!- Let go and have a look.
0:52:11 > 0:52:14Before, the family were struggling with a small kitchen,
0:52:14 > 0:52:16a dark living room
0:52:16 > 0:52:18and a cramped hallway.
0:52:18 > 0:52:21The unloved conservatory had become a dumping ground.
0:52:27 > 0:52:29Look at this! Wow! I can't believe it, it's amazing.
0:52:34 > 0:52:37- It's much lighter, as well. - It's so much lighter.
0:52:37 > 0:52:40I mean, it really is a different house this, isn't it?
0:52:40 > 0:52:43I really can't believe the difference, actually,
0:52:43 > 0:52:45because here you've taken out a wall,
0:52:45 > 0:52:47- taken away the conservatory...- Yep.
0:52:47 > 0:52:49..and used the same space,
0:52:49 > 0:52:52but it feels like a completely different amount of space.
0:52:54 > 0:52:56'The ground floor is now a generous space,
0:52:56 > 0:53:00'flooded with light thanks to the roof light and bifold doors
0:53:00 > 0:53:03'and it's zoned into places for cooking, eating and relaxing.'
0:53:06 > 0:53:10Before, you used to have a very small kitchen table here, didn't you?
0:53:10 > 0:53:13Now we've got a nice large area to eat around.
0:53:13 > 0:53:15This looks so inviting.
0:53:15 > 0:53:18- Yes, absolutely.- I mean, it really is.
0:53:18 > 0:53:20- Fantastic.- And it's orange! - THEY LAUGH
0:53:20 > 0:53:23Here's the man that claims he doesn't like bright colours.
0:53:23 > 0:53:25Well, you know, I'm open-minded!
0:53:25 > 0:53:28Having a table this...further over towards it,
0:53:28 > 0:53:32means it gives you a lot more space actually in the room.
0:53:32 > 0:53:33So it's purely functional, as well,
0:53:33 > 0:53:37- because that's all storage under there, as well.- In here?- Yep.
0:53:37 > 0:53:38It where the naughty kids go.
0:53:38 > 0:53:41Naughty kids! Or naughty grown-ups! THEY LAUGH
0:53:41 > 0:53:43They can lock you in. That's fantastic.
0:53:43 > 0:53:45- What a great use of space. - Yeah, absolutely.
0:53:45 > 0:53:47You know, every inch is being used of all this space.
0:53:47 > 0:53:50But it's lovely the way it goes up to the ceiling,
0:53:50 > 0:53:54because I think if you'd got something just from a flat pack supplier,
0:53:54 > 0:53:56it just wouldn't fill the space and define this lovely bench.
0:53:58 > 0:54:01'I'm so pleased Cath and Rob have learnt the lessons about using every inch of space.
0:54:03 > 0:54:05All this joinery cost than £2,000
0:54:05 > 0:54:08and the carpenter even added his own touches.
0:54:09 > 0:54:12It looks like he's had some fun with these handles.
0:54:12 > 0:54:16And that's just bits of ply glued together with a bit of varnish
0:54:16 > 0:54:19and, again, totally bespoke - no-one else has got that anywhere.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24'Having been inspired by the visit to the London house,
0:54:24 > 0:54:27'Cath and Rob have managed to carve out some space for themselves
0:54:27 > 0:54:29'and have built a bar.'
0:54:29 > 0:54:33So this is great, isn't it, for you guys to have this.
0:54:33 > 0:54:35I mean, I probably relinquished the sense
0:54:35 > 0:54:38that I could ever have any adult space in my own house,
0:54:38 > 0:54:41but you've really done the sensible thing and clawed some back.
0:54:41 > 0:54:43Absolutely. Everyone that comes in loves it.
0:54:43 > 0:54:46And, you know, this great big piece of wood here,
0:54:46 > 0:54:48have a guess how much this, all this top cost.
0:54:48 > 0:54:50- Why don't you tell me.- Five pounds. - Five pounds?
0:54:50 > 0:54:53- Five pounds for a fantastic piece of timber...- That's amazing!
0:54:53 > 0:54:55..with great history behind it.
0:54:57 > 0:55:02So I can see over here this great yellow in this reveal,
0:55:02 > 0:55:04- which we talked about, didn't we? - Yes.
0:55:04 > 0:55:06We have banana yellow in our living room.
0:55:06 > 0:55:08I never thought I'd say those words.
0:55:09 > 0:55:11I mean, it does do something, doesn't it?
0:55:11 > 0:55:15- It bounces a lovely warm light into the room.- Yeah, absolutely.
0:55:15 > 0:55:18We've carried on the idea of having some colour
0:55:18 > 0:55:20into the recess here, where the lantern is.
0:55:20 > 0:55:21Put a bit of blue.
0:55:21 > 0:55:25Just the subtly of knowing that a little bit of colour
0:55:25 > 0:55:27can make a big difference.
0:55:27 > 0:55:28And the quality of the space,
0:55:28 > 0:55:32the flat ceiling with the lovely step up into the lantern is beautiful.
0:55:33 > 0:55:36The couple have invested £1,200 on the skylight.
0:55:36 > 0:55:40This key move floods the previously dark central part of the house with light
0:55:40 > 0:55:43and they've saved on the floor, using plywood at just £16 a sheet.
0:55:46 > 0:55:47It's really light, really durable
0:55:47 > 0:55:52and actually, running through this, makes it seem really spacious
0:55:52 > 0:55:55without any threshold strips or anything like that.
0:55:57 > 0:55:59'The loft conversion is still work in progress,
0:55:59 > 0:56:02'but I want to see how they've squeezed three storeys
0:56:02 > 0:56:04'into their two-storey house.'
0:56:04 > 0:56:06- Let's go and have a look.- OK.
0:56:06 > 0:56:07So this is great.
0:56:07 > 0:56:10This is a really interesting space.
0:56:10 > 0:56:13What I like about this is that this is space that's stolen.
0:56:13 > 0:56:16You've gained it by dropping the floor only by a foot
0:56:16 > 0:56:20and I think it's really great the way you've squeezed
0:56:20 > 0:56:22every inch out of this house.
0:56:22 > 0:56:23Yes, yes, absolutely.
0:56:24 > 0:56:27'There's still a way to go to finish this build,
0:56:27 > 0:56:30'but Cath and Rob have achieved so much over the last few months.
0:56:30 > 0:56:33'So how has their budget fared?'
0:56:33 > 0:56:37You told me you had about 55,000 to do all of this work.
0:56:37 > 0:56:38How much have you spent?
0:56:38 > 0:56:40We're at the point of about...
0:56:40 > 0:56:4365, something like that.
0:56:43 > 0:56:47Do you think you have got good value in your house here?
0:56:47 > 0:56:49Oh, I think it's transformed our lives, really.
0:56:49 > 0:56:51Because it's a lot of money,
0:56:51 > 0:56:53but actually every bit of the house has been reconfigured.
0:56:53 > 0:56:55I mean EVERY SINGLE bit.
0:56:55 > 0:56:58Do you think you've learnt through looking at design
0:56:58 > 0:57:00and doing this house?
0:57:00 > 0:57:04Maybe not everything you need to do has to be
0:57:04 > 0:57:08what you see in magazines or in shops...
0:57:08 > 0:57:13It doesn't cost a lot to introduce really interesting ideas to your home.
0:57:13 > 0:57:14CHILDREN SHOUT
0:57:14 > 0:57:17'Cath and Rob have embraced this whole process
0:57:17 > 0:57:20'and their remodelled house is testament
0:57:20 > 0:57:24'to their willingness to think differently about design, materials and interior finishes.
0:57:25 > 0:57:28'They've ended up with a home that is now fit for them
0:57:28 > 0:57:30'and their family and how they want to live.'
0:57:32 > 0:57:34I'm so pleased now that they've got a house
0:57:34 > 0:57:39that they really will grow into over the next 10 or 15 or 20 years
0:57:39 > 0:57:41and hopefully stay in love with.
0:57:41 > 0:57:44- Now I can see what you're cooking for tea!- That's right.
0:57:44 > 0:57:46More importantly, we'll be able to see what you're up to!
0:57:46 > 0:57:48And I'll go up the ladder!
0:57:53 > 0:57:58Next time, the owner of one of Britain's thinnest homes is desperate for help...
0:57:58 > 0:58:00There you go, you won't get lost in this place.
0:58:00 > 0:58:02But how do you make a lot out of a little?
0:58:02 > 0:58:05- What do you think?- It's amazing.
0:58:05 > 0:58:08Meanwhile, a family of four have enormous dreams for their home...
0:58:08 > 0:58:10I just love the grandeur.
0:58:10 > 0:58:13..but bigger isn't always better...
0:58:13 > 0:58:15This isn't architecture. This is just getting more space.