CV: George Clarke

The genial architect performs more miracle transformations in George Clarke’s Old House, New Home (8pm, Ch4) – here, we look back at his life and career so far…

Starting out: George was born in Sunderland in 1974, and was brought up in nearby Washington. His father, a printer, died when George was six.

Education: He was educated at Oxclose Comprehensive School, where his mum worked. Both his grandfathers were builders and, after spending his holidays on building sites, he set his heart on becoming an architect from the age of 12. In 1995, he gained a first-class degree in architectural studies from Newcastle University.

Early career: After graduating, he worked with the FaulknerBrowns practice in Newcastle, later heading to London to join world-famous architect – and fellow Newcastle alumnus – Terry Farrell. In 1998, with Bobby Desai, he formed the company clarke: desai, whose clients included Jamie Oliver. TV break: He approached a literary agent after being asked to write a book about architecture, not realising the agency also represented TV presenters. He was asked to screen test for a new Channel 5 programme called Build A New Life In The Country, and was offered the presenter’s job in 2005. George stayed with the show for three seasons before being commissioned to present The Restoration Man for Channel 4 in 2010. Established act: His other TV credits

include The Great British Property Scandal (2011), George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces (2012-present) and

Old House, New Home (2016-present).