A Melbourne-based architect has been revealed as the presenter for the Australian version of the hit TV show.

Peter Maddison, founding principal and sole director of South Melbourne practice Maddison Architects will host Grand Designs Australia for the LifeStyle Channel.

Maddison started his practice in 1988 and has thirty years’ experience in residential and commercial work.

“I am really looking forward to hosting Grand Designs Australia for The LifeStyle Channel,” he said.

“After a lifetime as a practising architect I am fascinated by what we are going to witness as we travel around Australia filming a rich and diverse range of Australian homeowners. Some will be building their dream-home, some will be living a nightmare. But every one of them will have a unique story and drama.”

The UK version of Grand Designs hosted by Kevin McCloud charts new homes from inception to construction, with a particular focus the people who are building them.

LifeStyle’s Nicole Sheffield said: “This series is our biggest production commitment to-date and the host is incredibly important to the shows success. We did an extensive search to find the person who could best articulate the grandeur of Grand Designs and also the Australianness we are looking for. Someone who understands Australian architecture and our climate, culture and history … We’re thrilled to have secured Peter Maddison.”

The homes set to appear have all been chosen and the series of 10 episodes planned for 2010 is currently in production.