In 2004, Kunle Barker set up Illustrious Homes, an award-winning construction and design management company, specialising in high-profile projects.

To date, Kunle as delivered over 1,000 residential refurbishments, education, and sports centre refits, as well as countless private renovations. Kunle has also worked on many high-end projects such as the recently completed £100m West Hampstead Square development.

Kunle was also asked to deliver the high profile renovation on the military rehabilitation unit at Headley Court in Surrey which was opened by the then-Prince of Wales.

He is also the COO of Melt Property, a collection of property development and investment companies; is the Non-Executive Director of Studio Anyo, award-winning architects and Interior Designers; and co-founder of Barker-Walsh, an interior design company for high end housing developments.

He has also co-presented the ITV1 Love Your Home and Garden working alongside Alan Titchmarsh, and Project Home (2023) for Channel 4 alongside Nick Grimshaw.

Kunle Barker Social Entrepreneur

A committed social entrepreneur many of Kunle’s businesses offer opportunities for local residents to retrain and find new career paths. Kunle was personally commended by government leaders for his efforts to affect the lives of Londoners in a positive way, and he consults with the government to discuss the country’s construction challenges.

Kunle was recently announced as the lead Masterplan Consultant for Brent Cross Town’s multi-billion-pound regeneration. His role involves envisioning how people will live, work and play in the edge of the city centre’s urban developments.

Kunle Barker Charitable Work

Kunle is also a keen fundraiser for the homeless charity, CRASH, Kunle has raised over £15,000 for the charity running several marathons, triathlons, and even trekking to Everest Base Camp for good causes.

Kunle Barker Corporate Work

Kunle’s extensive career has seen him becoming one of the most dynamic live event hosts, presenters, and speakers on the circuit.

– Regular at Grand Designs & UK Construction Week with Kevin McCloud
– Longstanding Expert at the Ideal Home Show with Phil Spencer and Charlie Luxton
– Presented Grand Designs Live

He has worked extensively with change makers and businesses around the world, including COP26, EMAP, Ocean Media, Ovo Energy, Ridgemont, and the Royal Institute of British Architecture. He is also a regular columnist for Architects Journal and Grand Designs Magazine.