After we came to France and saw Chez Jallot, Deni's sister told us that Grand Desings were looking for projects abroad. A quick telephone call put us in contact with the series producer and following three months of nail-biting, we were told that we would be included in the new Grand Designs Abroad series
The whole experience was interesting and in many ways exciting with regular visits from the 'team' including obvioulsy Kevin McCloud. The Grand Designs programme focuses on the property and the problems of renovation, it does not try to make a soap-opera out of individual lives which meant that the whole experience was a pleasure
We did have to dress up for the odd interview, but that was no hardship especially as there was usually a free lunch at the end of the day.
Watch the programme on channel 4's website
What's it like to be on Grand Designs
Chez Jallot is now something like the house it was before it was burned down. Obviously modern requirements and building regulations have changed it slightly and there is no longer a working barn alongside. The barn is now two self catering gites but externally it has kept much of its original style
In order to make it comfortable and pleasant for out visitors the land and gardens are more decorative than practical but in many ways this is a great improvement. Nobody really wants to wade through muddy tractor tracks to get to the front door or have sheep nibbling their toes when they are trying to relax with a good book
Without exception, all the locals are pleased at the fact that Chez Jallot has been restored and is retaining and important part of the area's history