Jamie Laing opens up about renovation struggles with his wife, saying it nearly 'ended in divorce'

Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing attend the World Premiere of "A Minecraft Movie" at the Cineworld Leicester Square
Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing almost divorced due to the strains from their renovation (Image credit: Getty Images)

Jamie Laing has given fans a glimpse inside the newly renovated London home he shares with wife Sophie Habboo, but admitted the process wasn’t without its challenges.

The former Strictly Come Dancing and Made in Chelsea star shared that their first renovation project together tested their patience, humour, and even their marriage.

After 14 months of design decisions, disagreements, and late-night stress, the couple can finally enjoy their dream home, and a sense of relief that they made it through together.

Building their first home together

Jamie and Sophie spent over a year transforming their London property into a stylish, modern space that reflects both of their personalities.

The Instagram reel posted by Jamie showcased the impressive “before and after” footage, revealing how the couple turned the dated house into an elegant home.

Highlights include an open-plan kitchen and dining area with a large breakfast bar and a luxurious en-suite bathroom that quickly became a fan favourite.

'Nearly divorced' - Jamie on the challenges behind the project

In a lighthearted but honest caption, Jamie wrote: “My wife and I bought our first home and started renovating it… 14 months, 10,000 arguments and nearly divorced later, we’ve finally finished.”

The TV personality also joked, “10 points to Gryffindor for that transition,” and celebrated with a “victory dance” for surviving the experience together.

While the comment was made in jest, it reflected the common strain many couples face during large renovation projects – balancing budgets, design decisions, and timelines while maintaining harmony at home.

Fans applaud the stunning transformation

Fans and celebrity friends were quick to praise the couple’s results and Jamie’s humour in sharing the journey. Stacey Dooley commented, “WOW!!” while Jess Wright called the finished home “stunning.”

Other followers focused on specific design features, with one writing, “Can we all take a moment for that shower you skipped past - absolutely stunning!” Another added: “En-suite shower is heaven!”

The overall reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with fans congratulating the couple not only for the home’s beauty but for enduring the challenges together.

Joseph Mullane
News Editor

News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals.  Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.