Grand Designs (1999)

Episode Overview

James Strangeways, a passionate boat lover, welcomes Kevin McCloud to check on the progress of his unconventional new home, designed by his architect nephew, Ben Hebblethwaite. After 35 years of exploring Britain's canals, James, who has never been fond of traditional houses, has chosen to settle on land. Ben’s vision features a stilted structure above a marsh with a keel-shaped roof to reflect his uncle’s nautical obsession. However, when the contractor unexpectedly goes bankrupt, leaving a £87,000 hole in the £300,000 budget, and James proposes some design changes, it raises concerns for the young architect.