ENTRIES NOW OPEN! THE FLATPACK WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE BACK FOR 2026
Think you’ve got what it takes to conquer flatpack furniture under pressure?
The Flatpack World Championships returns to Grand Designs Live London 2026 and we’re launching a global search for the quickest, steadiest and most skilful DIY-ers out there.
After a show-stopping debut year, reigning champion Hayley McAuley is back to defend her crown. Last year she stunned the crowd by assembling a bedside table in just 9 minutes and 33 seconds. To take the 2026 title, you’ll need speed, precision and skill.
Enter the competition
After a show-stopping debut year, reigning champion Hayley McAuley is back to defend her crown. Last year she stunned the crowd by assembling a bedside table in just 9 minutes and 33 seconds. To take the 2026 title, you’ll need speed, precision and skill.
Enter the competition
How it works
On the opening day of Grand Designs Live (Friday 1 May), eight contestants will take to the Grand Designs Live stage.
Round One:
Two groups of four race to assemble a Billy bookcase in record time. The fastest two from each group go through to the grand final.
The Grand Final:
The final four face the ultimate showdown, building a bedside table at speed, in front of a live audience, for the title of Flatpack World Champion 2026.
Expect drama. Expect tension. Expect at least one person to question the instructions.
Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud will be on stage throughout, offering commentary, encouragement and the occasional raised eyebrow as competitors race against the clock.
If you’re the one your friends call when things need assembling, this is your moment.
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