AEW director’s house stars in Restoration Man

An 18-month project by Andy Critchlow, director of AEW Architects in Manchester, to convert a derelict Grade 2 listed water tower into his home has been filmed for the latest series of Channel 4's, Restoration Man.

Critchlow, who heads up AEW's retained account with McDonald's Restaurants, has completed the £400,000 project in Congleton, South Cheshire, where he now lives with his partner Ana.

The couple bought the property without internal viewing at auction in January 2010. The 15-metre tall tower was converted into a three-storey, five-bedroom family home with a top floor sun room that looks out over seven counties.

Critchlow commented: "The challenge of restoring a building that had sat redundant for 50 years and had never been a home before, was too rare an opportunity to miss. As a designer, it was a unique chance to put my money where my mouth is.

"Having bought the tower without any internal inspection, there have been many surprises along the way, but surrounded by good advice, support and hands on assistance from AEW colleagues, family and friends, we're delighted with the finished article."

• The programme airs on Thursday 12 January on Channel 4 at 9pm. Details are on the C4 website where you will be able to 'watch again' on 4OD and view additional information regarding the conversion and suppliers. http://www.channel4.com/programmes/restoration-man