EDITOR’S LETTER

This month I bring the latest news about Grand Designs Live, which returns to the Birmingham NEC from 5-9 October (granddesignslive.com). Hosted by property expert and TV presenter Kunle Barker, the show welcomes Kevin McCloud for the traditional ribbon-cutting opening ceremony. After which, Kevin, Kunle, Grand Designers and other special guests will appear on the Grand Designs Magazine Theatre stage for an inspiring programme of talks and panel discussions – including a session on keeping warm this winter, a subject many of us are worried about as energy costs continue to rise. Kevin returns for another round of stage appearances on Saturday when you can also hear from Grand Designers Iain and Jenny Shillady, who turned a Scottish bothy into their home.

Addressing the cost-of-living crisis on Thursday 6 October, the Energy Saving Trust is hosting a Q&A session and offering practical guidance on changing the way our homes are heated (energysavingtrust.org.uk). Plus, you’ll find more energy-efficiency advice, along with information on how to self-build or retrofit your home sustainably, at Green Living Live (greenlivinglive.com), which makes its Birmingham debut and runs alongside Grand Designs Live. Architect James Walsh will host experts on stage at the Sustainable Future Theatre, who will outline the many positive steps you can take to mitigate the effects of climate change.

You’ll find further details of some of the exhibitors and features on P75, along with information on tickets and getting to the venue. I look forward to seeing you there.

COV ER PHOTO ANDY HASL AM

K A R E N S T Y L I A N I D E S , E D I TO R @StylianidesK

Perfecting the form of this five-bedroom house in south Manchester proved a challenge for its owners. Turn to P22 for more

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