The Flatpack World Championships are back at Grand Designs Live London for 2026, launching a global search for the most confident and capable DIY-ers. Competitors will be pushed to their limits as they race to build flatpack furniture at speed, under pressure and in front of a live audience.
After a sensational inaugural year, last year’s champion Hayley McAuley will return to defend her title, following a final performance that saw her assemble a bedside table in just nine minutes and 33 seconds. This year’s challengers will need speed, accuracy and exceptional DIY skill to take the title.
Grand Designs Live, sponsored by Daikin, will host the live competition on its opening day. Eight contestants will showcase their DIY skills and compete to be crowned the Flatpack World Champion 2026.
The competition will be split into two rounds. In the first round, two groups of four will race to assemble a Billy bookcase in the fastest time possible, with two from each group progressing to the grand final. The finalists will then take on a bedside table, battling for the ultimate title.
Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud will be on stage throughout the competition, offering tips, commentary, and encouragement as contestants race against the clock.
Last year’s champion, Hayley McAuley, said, “Being able to come back to the stage is both thrilling and nerve-wracking! I can’t wait to see what the new competitors bring, but I’m ready for them!
“Flatpack furniture may look simple, but at speed, it’s a true test of skill, and a bit of chaos too!”
With sustainability a key priority, all furniture built during the competition will be donated to British Heart Foundation, ensuring every piece has a home after the event.
The Flatpack World Championships was created in response to research by Grand Designs Live, which found that three quarters of Brits would be willing to pay someone else to build their furniture, with nearly half admitting they struggle to assemble flatpack items themselves.
Entries are open to anyone who thinks they can rise to the challenge. Competitors should email flatpackworldchampionships@klaxonn.co.uk, explaining why they or someone they are nominating deserves a place in the championship.
Entries will be accepted from 12th February until 1st April 2026
The Flatpack World Championship will kick off at Grand Designs Live, London at ExCeL on 1st May. Starting at 10.30am at the Home & Garden Stage.
