Grand re-designs: Iconic UK landmarks reimagined in different architectural styles

The series was created by Grand Designs Live to showcase how different our cities could have been if they’d been designed during alternate architectural eras.

Kunle Barker, property expert and host of Grand Designs Live, reviewed the reimagined landmarks, picking out his favourites and commenting on where the artificial intelligence has got it right or very wrong.

He said, “These AI designs show just how much architecture changes over the course of time – and they give us a fun peek at what our landmarks might look like if they were built in a different era.

“I don’t wholly agree with some of the reinterpretations, and on occasion I definitely think the original is better! It goes to show that while AI is useful, sometimes good old-fashioned humans make the best grand designs.”

LONDON EYE – ART NOUVEAU

Originally built in the early 21st century, the London Eye is known for its modern engineering and iconic silhouette across the London skyline. The AI transformation reimagines it in the Art Nouveau style, featuring flowing lines, ornate details, and intricate patterns that evoke early 20th-century elegance.

Kunle observes, “The Art Nouveau redesign of the London Eye looks really imposing and elegant, which is definitely true to the architecture style. The intricate patterns and flowing forms are very different to the original design we all know, and I actually quite like this one – I’m just not sure why it’s been repositioned to the other side of the river!”

BULLRING BIRMINGHAM - ROMAN CLASSICAL

Originally designed in the 1960s, the Bullring Bull has been reimagined with a Roman Classical influence. The updated design features intricate swirls and decorative patterns that echo the ornate details of Roman sculpture, giving the bull a more classical, refined and almost regal appearance.

Kunle adds, “This Bullring Bull combines modern vibes with a sprinkle of Roman elegance. It’s a fresh, stylish twist on a local favourite, and I can’t help but admire how sophisticated it looks!”

EDINBURGH CASTLE - NEO FUTURIST

Edinburgh Castle, a proud symbol of Scotland,has been transformed into a dystopian sci-fi fantasy. This AI twist takes its storied stone walls and gives them a sleek, futuristic style, creating a strikingly bold and somewhat eerie new personality.

Kunle says, “It’s like Hogwarts Castle meets 1984! This mashup of old and new is absolutely wild—who knew history could take such an avant-garde and dystopian turn? I have to say, I’m not completely sold on it; the original has a charm that’s hard to beat!”