My Visit to Grand Designs Live 2025 at the NEC
Inspiration, Innovation and Ideas for the Future
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of visiting Grand Designs Live 2025 at the NEC Birmingham — an event I always look forward to as both an architect and a design enthusiast. Surrounded by the latest in home design, sustainability, and building innovation, it was an inspiring day full of ideas that I can bring back to my clients at JB Architect Services.
As an architect working across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Lichfield, Tamworth, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, I’m constantly searching for new ways to make homes more efficient, sustainable, and visually striking. Grand Designs Live has always been one of those rare events that blend creativity with real-world practicality — and this year did not disappoint.
Why I go to Grand Designs Live
For me, Grand Designs Live isn’t just a showcase of products or concepts — it’s a melting pot of innovation, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking design. It’s a place where you can meet passionate makers, ask technical questions, and get hands-on with new materials that could genuinely change the way we build and live.
This year’s event featured several standout zones, including The Grand House, a fully built show home within the exhibition. Walking through it was a brilliant reminder of how space, materials, light, and flow all come together in real life — something no drawing or render can quite replicate.
There were also live talks and theatres, Kevin McCloud’s Green Heroes, and an Architectural Advice Hub where designers and homeowners could chat about planning, materials, and sustainability. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and fresh thinking.
What stood out to me
A few things really caught my attention during my visit:
1. Sustainable technology and materials
It was great to see how far the industry has come with eco-friendly innovation. From smart solar systems to natural insulation and recycled finishes, the emphasis on sustainable design is stronger than ever. I’m keen to integrate more of these solutions into future projects.
2. Turning bold ideas into buildable designs
Many exhibits showcased creative materials and architectural concepts — the kind of bold ideas that push boundaries. As an architect, I’m always thinking about how to make those ideas practical and achievable for real clients, balancing creativity with structural and budget realities.
3. The importance of light and flow
Walking through full-scale interiors reinforced how crucial spatial flow and natural light are in creating a comfortable home. These are the subtle elements that transform a design from good to exceptional — and they’re something I prioritise in every project I take on.
4. Connecting with suppliers and clients
The show was also a great opportunity to meet suppliers and discuss materials firsthand. I came away with brochures, samples, and plenty of contacts that I’ll be revisiting for upcoming client projects.
How it’s influencing my work at JB Architect Services
Events like Grand Designs Live are more than just a day out — they’re a chance to refresh ideas and bring new energy into the studio. After this year’s visit, I’m even more focused on:
Embedding sustainability from the start of every design process, rather than as an add-on.
Introducing new materials and technologies that enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Using real-world examples from the show to help clients visualise what’s possible — from lighting design to spatial flow.
Collaborating with new suppliers and specialists who share the same commitment to quality and innovation.
Final reflections
Walking around the NEC, it was clear that design is constantly evolving — but what doesn’t change is the goal of creating spaces that truly improve how people live. Seeing so many forward-thinking ideas under one roof reminded me why I love what I do.
If you’re thinking about starting your own project — whether it’s a new build, extension, or renovation — I’d love to share some of the inspiration and innovations I discovered at the show. Together, we can turn those ideas into a home that’s both beautiful and built for the future.
— Justin Belgeonne
JB Architect Services