Sarah Off the Grid

Sarah Off the Grid is an exhilarating renovation lifestyle series aired on HGTV in 2017, showcasing the innovative and exceptional talent of acclaimed interior designer, Sarah Richardson. Produced in Canada and directed by Scott McClennan, the show beautifully intertwines reality, adventure, and the artistic triumphs and trials of architectural design. In this captivating series, Sarah, along with her handy husband Alexander Younger and their two daughters, showcases her unique approach to sustainable architecture and self-sufficient suburban living, carving her niche in one of TV’s rapidly growing genres - home improvement shows with a twist.

Renowned for her previous, award-winning design series on HGTV like Sarah’s House, Sarah 101, and Real Potential, Sarah Richardson takes her visionary prowess to an unprecedented level in Sarah Off the Grid. Harnessing over 20 years of design experience, she sets out on a mission to build an off-the-grid dream home, which beautifully harmonizes luxury, comfort, style, and function with sustainability.

Located in rural Ontario, the premise of the show revolves around Sarah and her family’s ambitious project to create a modern and eco-friendly family home. The project underlines the idea of breaking away from modern conveniences, going back to basics, reduced dependency on public utilities, and living a fuss-free, minimalistic life, without compromising on style, luxury, and comfort.

Each episode in the six-part series presents an intriguing journey of discovery and creativity. The viewers witness the meticulous planning and execution of transforming the architectural blueprints into actual brick-and-mortar, imbued beautifully with Sarah’s signature design aesthetics. From purchasing the plot, laying the foundations, selecting the materials, grappling with budgets, dealing with construction issues, to designing the interiors, Sarah offers her audience a first-hand experience of her creative journey, involving the challenges as well as the joys of building a self-sufficient dream home.

Throughout the series, Sarah and her team constantly juggle various tasks, showcasing her charismatic leadership and creative knack for design and renovation. Each episode exhibits her unique design approach as she deftly integrates each room, piece-by-piece, into an energizing, relaxing sanctuary that is close to nature yet sophisticated.

Simultaneously maintaining the integrity of sustainable design, Sarah beautifully coordinates color palettes, furniture pieces, fixtures, layouts, and decorative accents in each room, showcasing her eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary aesthetics. True to her signature style, the journey is filled with budget-friendly DIYs, showcased detailed architectural explanations, and laden with design tips and advice.

In Sarah Off the Grid, collaboration serves to be a critical element. From her husband, Alexander, and the on-site contractor, to energy consultants and local artisans, Sarah works in tandem with a robust team to achieve her ambitious vision. Her dynamic with her family and the team adds a layer of relieving humor and warm camaraderie to this intensive renovation saga.

The show not only focuses on the architectural and design elements, but also provides a genuine insider look at Sarah's life off the screen. The viewers follow the Richardsons as they adapt to rural living, balance work and play, and foster their family bond. The glimpses of Sarah’s family life interspersed within these design narratives give the show a heartwarming personal touch.

Finally, with a triumphant reveal in the last episode, the audience gets to witness the stunning transformation of a plot of land into a tastefully designed, energy-efficient, and self-sustainable family home, a testament to Sarah Richardson’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainable living.

Sarah Off the Grid does a magical job of infusing education, inspiration, and entertainment into a marvelous home renovation odyssey. Sarah Richardson’s charisma, authenticity, unwavering passion for design, and commitment to living responsibly, breathe life into the series, making the audience feel a seamless connection to her off-the-grid journey. Unquestionably, this program is a must-watch for hardcore home renovation enthusiasts, green architecture followers, aspiring interior designers and, of course, Sarah Richardson’s fans who appreciate her incredible talent of creating beautiful spaces.