Grand Designs Live Returns to London with Kevin McCloud in 2026
Television presenter and design expert Kevin McCloud will bring the celebrated Grand Designs Live exhibition back to London for 2026. Sponsored by Daikin, the UK's premier home and design event will take place at ExCeL London from 1st to 4th May 2026, offering four days of inspiration, expert guidance, and innovative design solutions for homeowners and enthusiasts alike.
The Grand House: A Showcase of Modern Innovation
Taking centre stage at the 2026 exhibition will be the latest iteration of the Grand House. This architect-designed, two-storey contemporary self-build villa serves as a full-scale demonstration of cutting-edge home innovation. Designed to both inspire and educate visitors, the Grand House exemplifies how modern homes can successfully integrate renewable energy solutions and achieve decarbonisation without sacrificing bold architectural design or luxurious finishes.
The showcase property features several remarkable elements:
- A dramatic architect-designed facade that makes an immediate visual impact
- A handmade kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances
- Bespoke glazing incorporating floor-to-ceiling windows
- Advanced energy control systems for optimal efficiency
- A dedicated home gym facility
- Beautifully landscaped outdoor living spaces
Throughout the Grand House, visitors will encounter numerous UK product launches and innovative technologies while having the opportunity to meet expert advisors from featured brands and learn about the solutions available for purchase at the show.
Sustainability at the Heart of the Event
With environmental considerations firmly embedded in its ethos, Grand Designs Live 2026 places significant emphasis on sustainable design. The Sustainability Theatre, sponsored by Daikin, will host live talks from Kevin McCloud's personally selected Green Heroes. These innovators, ranging from emerging start-ups to established industry leaders, will share the stories behind their products and services while demonstrating how they contribute to shaping a greener future for the home design industry.
For the first time, the exhibition will feature a Sustainability Hub that combines a live theatre programme with a dedicated advice centre. This integrated approach allows visitors to receive personalised, one-to-one guidance on making their homes more energy efficient and future-proof.
Comprehensive Support for Home Projects
The 2026 exhibition builds on previous successes with an expanded programme of live talks and specialised advice centres designed to support visitors at every stage of their home improvement journey:
- Kitchen and Bedroom Hub (sponsored by Howdens) featuring theatre programmes focused on design, functionality, and emerging trends
- Architect Advice Centre offering personalised guidance from experienced architectural professionals
- Build and Renovation Hub combining expert talks with practical, actionable advice
- Home and Garden Hub (sponsored by Quiet Mark) featuring both theatre sessions and advice centres focused on improving interior and exterior spaces
Across these various hubs, visitors will have direct access to industry experts, opportunities to ask specific questions, and receive tailored advice relevant to their individual projects.
Industry Support and Brand Partnerships
Grand Designs Live London 2026 enjoys support from numerous leading brands within the home design and construction sectors. Daikin serves as both Headline Sponsor and sponsor of the Sustainability Hub, while additional key partners include Cosentino, Howdens, Quiet Mark, Smeg, Hydropool, and Grabex. Many of these brands will be prominently featured within the Grand House itself, providing visitors with firsthand experience of their products and solutions.
Richard Morey, Show Director of Grand Designs Live, commented: "Grand Designs Live London 2026 is about showing what's possible right now. From smarter ways to design and build, to practical solutions for creating more efficient, comfortable homes, this year's show is focused on ideas visitors can genuinely take away and apply."
"The Grand House brings those ideas to life at full scale, while our theatres and advice centres give people direct access to the experts behind the products and innovations shaping the future of home design. Whether visitors are at the early planning stage or ready to build, the London show is designed to support every step of the journey. Kevin can't wait to welcome you all!"
The exhibition promises to deliver an immersive experience across multiple sectors including build, renovation, kitchens, bedrooms, home and garden, and sustainability. With hundreds of brands represented, bespoke furnishings on display, and innovative products to discover, Grand Designs Live London 2026 aims to be the ultimate destination for anyone planning a home project or seeking design inspiration.
