Patrons

George Clarke

Civic Trust Awards Patron George Clarke is an architect, television presenter, lecturer and writer, best known for his work on the Channel 4 programmes The Home Show, The Restoration Man, George Clarke's Old House New Home, and George Clarke's Amazing Spaces. 

Born and raised in Sunderland, from the age of 12 George wanted to be an architect. After studying for a BTEC in Building and Construction at Wearside College, Sunderland, he gained a First Class BA Honours in Architectural Studies and a Certificate in Architectural Practice from Newcastle University School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, followed by a post-graduate diploma from London's Bartlett School of Architecture. After graduating in 1995, George trained and worked with FaulknerBrowns in Newcastle upon Tyne, before joining world-famous architect Sir Terry Farrell, working in both London and Hong Kong. In 1998, with partner Bobby Desai, he formed his own company, clarke:desai.

George is passionate about the way architecture can transform our everyday lives and his aim is to make architecture popular and accessible to the public and has set up a charity organisation called Ministry of Building Innovation and Education (MOBIE) which is designed to train and inspire young people into the innovation and design of homes in the U.K. and abroad. MOBIE has also designed a course in partnership with Teesside University. 

George has been a longstanding supporter of The Civic Trust Awards, becoming Patron in 2009. He has help raise awareness of the scheme within the industry and amongst the general public, encouraging practices and organisations to apply each year, as well as participate in the judging process by volunteering as Assessors in their local area. George also presents the Awards Ceremony in March each year.