Chateau DIY: Win the Dream

The reading room challenge comes to an end as Janet and Philip return to assist Max McMurdo in evaluating every aspect of the space, from its layout and character to its craftsmanship and comfort. Together they scrutinise each element to ensure the final design meets the project’s standards.

The episode marks the final stage of the reading‑room challenge, bringing the series to its closing point. Viewers see the programme wrap up as the focus shifts to a thorough evaluation of the space that has been under scrutiny throughout the competition, with each element examined in detail. In this concluding segment, Janet and Philip make their return, joining Max McMurdo to conduct a comprehensive review. Together they examine each facet of the reading room, moving from the overall layout through to the room’s character, the quality of its craftsmanship, and the level of comfort it offers. By pooling their observations, they aim to produce a balanced judgement of the room’s overall performance. The layout assessment looks at how the furniture and shelving are arranged, ensuring the space flows logically. Character refers to the atmosphere created by colour, lighting and decorative touches, while craftsmanship evaluates the skill and precision evident in the joinery and finishes. Comfort considers how inviting and usable the room feels for readers. Together, these criteria provide a framework for judging both aesthetic appeal and functional suitability. By addressing these four pillars—layout, character, craftsmanship and comfort—Janet, Philip and Max provide a full picture of the reading room’s strengths and any areas needing improvement. Their joint appraisal brings the reading‑room challenge to a tidy close, offering a clear verdict on the project’s overall success.