Grand Designs' 'Saddest' Chesil Cliff House Sells After 15-Year Saga

Kevin McCloud, host of Channel 4's Grand Designs, has reflected on the sale of Chesil Cliff House in Croyde, Devon, which has been described as the show's "saddest" and most emotionally taxing project. The house's owner, Edward Short, spent over a decade and millions over budget renovating the property, a project that contributed to the end of his 20-year marriage and left him with £7 million in debt. Despite being listed for over £5 million, the house sold only recently for a reduced £4.35 million, with the proceeds going to creditors rather than Edward himself. McCloud expressed hope that the sale would bring relief and closure to Edward and his family, acknowledging the complex emotions tied to the house that had dominated their lives for years. The project, which was initially intended to be completed in 18 months, became a prolonged struggle marked by financial and personal hardship. McCloud described the sale as "fantastic news," emphasizing the heavy burden it lifted from Edward and his family and their opportunity to move forward.