This Wednesday’s episode of popular BBC TV show Restoration House, presented by Caroline Quentin, is set in Devon.
With the help of experts Kieran Long and Dr. Kate Williams, local couple Geri and Kevin try to restore the Victorian neo-gothic Barnhill House, near Exeter.
However, their dream home soon becomes a living nightmare as the true condition of the property becomes apparent.
Geri and Kevin fell in love with Barnhill at first sight. Its gothic arches, quirky architectural features and the glass lantern-like cupola sat on top of the house all persuaded the couple to buy the property without even commissioning a survey.
However, as the restoration begins, problems with the house soon emerge. Walls that otherwise looked sturdy, are revealed to be rotting to the verge of collapse, leaving Gail with no option but to double her budget.
As work goes on, the house’s mysterious history is also uncovered. Evidence begins to emerge as to why this 18th century property was so poorly built. As the financial costs threaten to spiral out of control, Gail decides to manage the build herself.
However, the completion of the whole project is put at risk when Barnhill’s defining feature, the glass lantern, is on the brink of collapse.
To find out if Gail and Kevin can rescue Barnhill from oblivion and turn it into their dream home, tune into BBC2 at 8pm on Wednesday 28 August.
