X-Grid at Grand Designs Live

Grand Designs Live, one of the UK’s most recognised events for architecture and home innovation, selected X-Grid as a “Recycled Hero Product” to form the entrance to the Gardens Hall section. The installation placed sustainability at the heart of the visitor experience, while showcasing a high-performance solution for ground reinforcement.

The Challenge

The event team needed a surface that was strong enough to handle high foot traffic, quick to install within a tight build schedule, and reflective of the show’s focus on sustainable design.

The Solution

X-Grid was chosen for its unique combination of strength, ease of use and environmental credentials. Manufactured in the UK from 100% recycled polypropylene, the grid is both lightweight and exceptionally strong. Each square metre weighs just over 5 kg, yet independent testing confirmed a load-bearing capacity of up to 428 tonnes per square metre in line with DIN 1072 standards.

Installation was fast and efficient thanks to the slot-and-peg connection system. A single installer can lay up to 100 m² in an hour, making it ideal for the event’s time-sensitive build. The open-cell structure provided a stable base for gravel, preventing movement while maintaining a neat appearance throughout the duration of the exhibition.

Results

The use of X-Grid delivered a durable, SuDS-compliant surface that supported heavy footfall while also aligning with the sustainability focus of Grand Designs Live. Its permeable design allowed water to drain naturally into the sub-base, easing pressure on drainage systems and avoiding surface water build-up.

Visitors entered the Gardens Hall across a surface that was not only practical but also a clear demonstration of how recycled products can achieve professional standards in both performance and appearance.

Broader Impact

The Grand Designs Live installation highlighted the versatility of X-Grid beyond the exhibition setting. The same qualities that impressed at the event: strength, speed of installation, long lifespan and environmental responsibility, make it a proven solution for permanent projects such as car parks, golf courses, pathways, equestrian facilities, and domestic landscaping.