Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, best known for his role on the home improvement show Changing Rooms, revealed that he turned down a nearly £500,000 offer to front a television advertising campaign. The presenter stated that he found the prospect of the campaign, for an electrical firm, to be unappealingly dull.
Llewelyn-Bowen, 61, who has also appeared on shows like The Weakest Link and Interior Design Masters, explained that he has always been mindful of his finances, though he admitted to struggling at times. He noted that his daughter, Hermione, who manages his company, often places him on a "money diet." He also shared that he quit smoking 25 years ago, a decision he credits with saving him a significant amount of money.
While he has not received ridiculous sums for appearances, Llewelyn-Bowen acknowledged that he could have earned more by being more commercially driven. He described himself as a "media whore lite."
His income has been relatively consistent over the past three decades, with the 1990s and 2000s being particularly strong periods. He expressed gratitude for the public's continued support, though he is aware of his polarizing nature.
Llewelyn-Bowen's significant purchases for enjoyment tend to be clothing and shoes. His tailor-made suits cost around £1,200 and Jeffery-West boots approximately £600, but he emphasizes their longevity. A significant financial decision he made was establishing his own product design company, which collaborates with retail chains selling his branded products, forming the core of his financial success.
Regarding his finances and family, Llewelyn-Bowen believes parents have a duty to support their children, but not to the extent of over-pampering them. He defended the concept of "nepo babies," noting that his daughters, who grew up in the business and are involved in its management, are well-positioned to promote his brand.
He has a 17th-century manor house on the outskirts of Cirencester, which he purchased for £1.2 million two decades ago and has since more than doubled in value. The property has been subdivided to accommodate his family.
If he were Chancellor, Llewelyn-Bowen indicated he would address the impact of VAT on school fees, which has affected his sons-in-law. His immediate personal financial priority, however, is ensuring his wife has enough gin.