Grand Designs Live

When I was part of a session at the Grand Designs Live 2025, I looked out at a room full of people who - just like me - want to live more sustainably, but aren’t sure where to start when it comes to their own homes. That’s exactly why I was there: to show you that retrofit doesn’t have to be scary, expensive, or reserved for TV makeover shows.

Over the course of my “Eco Renovations and Retrofitting Top Tips” talk, I shared the lessons I’ve learned from transforming our draughty 1901 Victorian end-of-terrace into a warm, energy-efficient home, cutting our energy usage by 75% in the process.

What I Covered in the Session

Here are just a few of the key topics from my talk:

• Start with the basics – why insulation, airtightness, and ventilation are your best friends in any retrofit.

• Low-cost wins – simple changes that save energy without draining your wallet.

• Working with builders – how to have informed conversations so you get the results you want.

• Long-term thinking – making choices that protect both your comfort and the planet.

• Avoiding common pitfalls – lessons I learned the hard way so you don’t have to.

I also busted a few myths - like the idea that retrofitting is only for brand-new builds or huge budgets. My home is proof that older, “leaky” houses can be transformed with the right planning and support.

Why It Matters

I’m not an architect or a builder, just a very determined granny with a passion for sustainability and a knack for asking questions.

If my story shows anything, it’s that ordinary homeowners can lead the way in cutting carbon emissions while making our homes warmer and cheaper to run.

If you’re thinking about making your own eco-upgrades, I hope this session inspires you to take the first step. Whether it’s switching to LED lighting, adding loft insulation, or diving into a full retrofit, every action makes a difference.

🎥 Watch the session below ⬇️