Unlike most reality formats, the personal dramas of the people whose houses it features are not the point of the programme. [McCloud says:] "I'm not interested in filming people just because they've got 18 children or something. What has to be interesting, ultimately, is understanding a building through people."

Never the other way around?

"Oh, no, no, no, no, no. Not at all. It is about buildings."

I've always enjoyed watching Grand Designs, and though McCloud's style takes a bit of getting used to, it's worth it in the long run. The interview shows McCloud in a good light.