Grand Designs New Zealand
Sunday, ABC1, 7.40pm
SO we’ve had the original Grand Design and Grand Designs Australia – so why not Grand Designs New Zealand. It’s fascinating to watch different takes on the same shows from around the world (the Bachelor New Zealand is a hoot, Four Weddings Canada – not so much).
But the interesting thing about Grand Designs New Zealand is the unique challenges and isolation of the country and their can-do attitude. It’s this combination that makes this show worth watching even for those who are over this genre.
Architects often say that building in New Zealand comes with two main challenges – it rains and it shakes.
But the weather and seismic activity also provide New Zealand with a wealth of dramatic landscapes, which in turn require creative approaches to building.
Combine this with a culture of DIY and you have the perfect fodder for the first New Zealand series of Grand Designs.
Hosted by architect Chris Moller, whose fascination with urbanism brings a new perspective on how building choices shape and reflect who New Zealanders are and how they want to live, Grand Designs New Zealand features a mix of fascinating stories of ambitious and innovative homebuilders trying to realise their dreams.
First up deer farmer and bachelor Lachlan McDonald built a three-bedroom concrete home with hopes to fill it with a family in the future. However, the choice of location was one of the most remote and stormy parts of New Zealand – The Catlins. Lachlan’s hired a top Auckland architect who scratched his head at Lachlan’s decision to project manage his first build himself. His choice of builder was also a good mate who specialises in constructing local milking sheds. This all makes for a bit fascinating viewing while you wait for the next series of Kevin McCloud and the UK crew.
– TANIA PHILLIPS
