Star Architect, George Clarke: "I Can’t Stop Coming Back to New Zealand!"
Episode Description
Architect and TV presenter George Clarke (Amazing Spaces, The Restoration Man, Homes in the Wild) can’t get enough of New Zealand – and in this episode of the Podcast, he reveals why.
George has been visiting us for years, filming across the country’s wild islands, off-grid homes, and jaw-dropping landscapes. From Marlborough Sounds to Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel, he shares his favourite spots, the Kiwi quirks that make him smile and why NZ’s architecture blends so beautifully with nature.
🎯 In this episode:
The best places he’s visited in NZ – and why they’re unforgettable
How Kiwi architecture compares to the UK
The number one question New Zealanders ask him
Why NZ design is world-leading in eco-friendly living
What keeps him coming back again and again
I caught up with George on a Friday afternoon in between some appointments so the podcast was a little rushed, but I am incredibly grateful that him and his team found time in their hectic schedule for this conversation, and I hope you enjoy it.
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Brief Summary
George Clark discusses his new series on off-grid homes, architecture, and experiences in New Zealand.
Key points
- George Clark's New Series. George Clark discusses his new series, 'Homes in the Wilds', highlighting unique homes.
- Recognition in New Zealand. George shares his experiences of being recognized in New Zealand and the local pride.
- Architectural Journey. George recounts how his grandfather inspired his passion for architecture from a young age.
- From Anger to Opportunity. A careers adviser’s annoyance fueled his passion for architecture, leading to an amazing job.
- The Buzz of Helping Others. He finds joy in offering design advice to strangers, even on a ferry.
- The Impact of Rumors. He discusses the personal toll of false internet rumors on his family.
Ask about Dom Harvey
Episode highlights
- George Clark's New SeriesGeorge Clark discusses his new series, 'Homes in the Wilds', highlighting unique homes.“I’m doing about a whole series about Homes in the Wilds.”0:36Aug 12, 2025
- Recognition in New ZealandGeorge shares his experiences of being recognized in New Zealand and the local pride.“Yeah, just a bit. A lot. Yeah, know a lot actually.”2:42Aug 12, 2025
- Architectural JourneyGeorge recounts how his grandfather inspired his passion for architecture from a young age.“I was probably always destined to become an architect.”13:57Aug 12, 2025
- From Anger to OpportunityA careers adviser’s annoyance fueled his passion for architecture, leading to an amazing job.“That careers officer made me really angry and that’s why I applied for those jobs.”15:54Aug 12, 2025
- The Buzz of Helping OthersHe finds joy in offering design advice to strangers, even on a ferry.“I get a buzz from that.”20:20Aug 12, 2025
- The Impact of RumorsHe discusses the personal toll of false internet rumors on his family.“That crosses a big line for me.”26:06Aug 12, 2025
- Designing for EmotionHe emphasizes the importance of creating beautiful, homely spaces.“Just make it very home.”30:04Aug 12, 2025
- The Importance of Switching OffTaking a break from work can be incredibly refreshing and beneficial for mental health.“Turn your phone off for a week. It was amazing.”31:54Aug 12, 2025

