House wrecks: are these Grand Designs in waiting?

Could these unconverted buildings make the next series of Channel 4 TV stalwart Grand Designs? Would they inspire a budding self-builder to allow presenter, Kevin McCloud, on site during the gruelling months of conversion? We think the following five properties could make the grade.

1. Point of Ayr Lighthouse, Talacre Beach, Flintshire.

This redundant lighthouse would make a very unusual home for someone who likes isolation (except when the beach is full of sunbathers) and the mewing of seagulls.

And we mean unusual; despite looking weatherbeaten, it's Grade II listed and features four circular rooms, each 18 feet in diameter, with steps up to the top.

Also, this 60 feet high lighthouse has some extraordinary property details including all round water frontage and two acres of beach to call home; but is only accessible by foot at low tide.

Going for: £100,000, Strutt & Parker, Chester.

2. The Water Tower, Burton Green, Warwickshire.

A redundant water tower with panoramic views, which could be turned into a stunning and spacious home.

Plans have been drawn up for the 6,136 square feet tower to have a games room and entrance hall at the bottom; sitting room, kitchen, study and large terrace on the first floor; four bedrooms and a bathroom on the second floor and roof terrace and terrace at the top.

Going for: £395,000. Knight Frank, Stratford-upon-Avon.

3. Soley Mews, London, WC1.

This Grade II listed 2,000 square feet former chapel to the House of Retreat, was built in the 1890s and has soaring vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows.

It was used as a photographic studio where many music stars were photographed and has planning permission for a three bedroom house and tremendous potential for someone with vision.

Going for: £1.55 million. Felicity J Lord, Islington.

4. Woodside, Lelant, Nr. St. Ives, Cornwall.

This large detached house, which has been seriously damaged by fire, lies in a secluded half an acre plot off The Saltings, a prestigious residential road by the Hayle Estuary.

It has tree lined boundaries and a 200 feet long driveway, plus a rather useful three bedroom mobile home – perfect for living in when the house is being re-built.

Going for: £425,000, Lillicrap Chilcott, Truro.

5. Millhanger Cottage, near Godalming, Surrey.

Tucked away in a woodland clearing at the end of a long country track, this is an idyllic location in which to create a really spectacular home.

With 11 acres of woodland, barn and 23 acres of grazing land, planning permission has been granted to demolish the two-storey bungalow and build a larger contemporary single-storey flat-roofed dwelling with low environmental impact.

Going for: £900,000, Hamptons, Godalming.