The ABC is poised to enrich its lifestyle programming with the unveiling of Grand Designs Transformations set to premiere on ABC TV and ABC iview in the coming year.
Capitalising on the enduring appeal of home renovation narratives, the series is the latest addition to ABC’s well-curated factual entertainment slate.
Grand Designs Transformations is to be helmed by Professor Anthony Burke, known for his role in Restoration Australia, and Yasmine Ghoniem, a distinguished figure in interior design. The program will delve into the intimate and challenging journeys of Australian renovators striving to realise their ultimate dream homes.
With the ingenuity of Australian homeowners at its heart, the series will explore innovative design solutions, confronting the trials of renovation head-on.
Susie Jones, ABC’s Head of Factual, articulated the network’s enthusiasm:
“We’re thrilled to build on our suite of premium lifestyle content with Grand Designs Transformations and we are delighted to welcome Yasmine to the ABC to co-host the series with Anthony. The series welcomes us into the homes of a vast array of everyday Australians taking on ambitious projects with creativity and ingenuity.”
The sentiment was echoed by Burke, who shared his observations on the dynamic shifts within the realms of design and architecture:
“Things are moving so fast in design and architecture at the moment. It is fantastic to see the way issues like sustainability, multi-generational living, tiny homes, recycled homes and more are being explored by Australian homeowners, stepping outside the expected and into the provocative at all scales of building.
People are rolling up their sleeves and transforming our ideas of living in Australia, one project at a time.
It’s also incredible to work with my co-host Yasmin Ghoniem who brings her energy and insight to the conversation. The visits we did together were hilarious fun to do!”
Ghoniem reflected on the transformative experiences featured in the series:
“I was blown away witnessing extraordinary achievements by ordinary people. There’s nothing better than seeing others understand the benefits of good design, listen to their gut and go for it.
Watching this series, young homeowners especially are going to be inspired to take risks and give it a red hot go when it comes to realising their own renovation dreams.”
Grand Designs Transformations will journey across diverse Australian landscapes, from a Blue Mountains’ Moroccan sanctuary to a Victorian eco-retreat, showcasing the breadth of innovation and the personal stakes involved in home transformation.
The series is produced by Fremantle Australia for the ABC, with Josie Mason Campbell overseeing the unscripted content department. Production team leads include Brooke Bayvel, Michael Collett, Chris Perry, and Jo Chichester, with Madeleine Hawcroft fulfilling the role of Executive Producer alongside Jones.
This venture aligns with ABC’s vision to provide inspiring, factual content that resonates with Australians’ growing interest in home renovation and design. The international distribution rights are held by Fremantle Distribution.
