Nicki Chapman, the beloved presenter of was left utterly astonished in the latest episode of the series.
During Wednesday’s show, viewers were treated to a heartwarming reunion as Nicki caught up with Darcie and Ian, a couple who had first graced the programme back in 2015 with dreams of relocating from Cambridgeshire to their cherished holiday destination in the Peak District.
The couple had previously fallen in love with the first Derbyshire property they viewed on the show, leading to a purchase that would become their new home.
Fast forward to 2023, and Nicki was keen to discover the renovations the pair had undertaken over the years.
Upon arrival, Nicki immediately noticed the exterior’s transformation, with the original light blue window frames and door replaced by chic black alternatives. Yet, it was the kitchen’s overhaul that truly took her breath away.
Escape to the Country star praises ‘tremendous’ change to home leaving it ‘unrecognisable’ (Image: BBC)
Stepping into the revamped space, Nicki exclaimed: “Now, I don’t recognise this at all! ” To which Darcie humorously responded, “Sometimes I barely recognise it.”
Intrigued by the room’s spacious feel, Nicki queried: “Wow, it’s huge! Was there a wall there?”
Darcie then revealed they had removed a small fourth bedroom to create the expansive area, reports .
Visibly impressed by the couple’s efforts, Nicki praised: “What a transformation. Next time I’m going to do a kitchen up, I’m going to ask you for advice. I think what you’ve done here is tremendous.”
Darcie and Ian moved into their home in 2015, three months after their appearance on the BBC show (Image: BBC)
However, they’d also revamped the living space, with Nicki recognising their unique influence in the room. Ian admitted they’d embarked on extensive renovations throughout their time at the house.
Nicki observed the living room seemed more spacious than she recalled, and Darcie revealed they rearranged the furniture to enhance the room’s size.
They also installed bespoke storage units flanking the chimney breast, reducing the need for additional furniture.
After moving in just three months following their property hunt, Darcie was full of compliments for their new village.
Nicki was blown away by the change the couple had made to the kitchen (Image: BBC)
She saying: “We’ve been part of various different village activities. “We helped organise Hogfest for two summers. There’s been quite a transformation and an evolution as well.”
I Escape to the Country is available to watch on iPlayer.