HOME OF THE YEAR

Series 12, Episode 7

Mike and Steve, Kildare

Mike and Steve live in Co Kildare with their dog, Finley. In 2022 the couple purchased their new build home and had plans drawn up, as well as kitchen installers on speed dial, all while eagerly waiting for the sale to go through.

Since moving in, Mike and Steve have given the house a completely different look, from new light fittings, doors and panelling, whilst also having the front and back garden professionally landscaped and developed.

The home has changed so much that their neighbours asked if it was a different design to the rest of the new builds in the estate!

Mike and Steve love how they have adapted their home to suit their lifestyle, with its modern and chic design creating a balance between everyday practicalities and a sense of luxury.

Sarah and Gerard, Roscommon

Sarah and Gerard live in this beautiful vernacular home in Co Roscommon with their three young children – Sylvie, Willow and Oscar.

The family built the home on the site of Gerard’s granduncle and grandaunt’s homestead, of which he has many fond childhood memories. They wanted to create a bright, modern and functional home which would bed easily into its surroundings, reflect their personalities and age well. This was achieved by incorporating lots of glazing and a variety of natural materials, keeping the base palette relatively neutral and adding colourful accents throughout.

Initially, as the family was living in the Middle East, they intended the house to act as a base during visits home; however, they decided to move back to Ireland towards the end of the build and added an extension three years later.

Sarah loves that the house works well for them as a family, but feels quietly luxurious and is a lovely space to be in.

Aisling, Dublin

When Aisling purchased the home, the interior had a neutral colour palette. It was in good condition but needed some updating and personal touches to make it truly hers. The kitchen was one of the biggest projects, she replaced it entirely with the help of her dad, which involved some demolition work. She painted the entire house herself, carefully selecting colours that would brighten the compact rooms and create an uplifting, airy feel throughout. She enjoyed upcycling pieces sourced from vintage stores and sustainable online platforms, giving old items a new life in the space.

For Aisling every room has its own character, with playful and unexpected touches that bring joy and a sense of fun. Her home is a sanctuary for her, where she loves mixing design elements and finding creative ways to express herself through interiors, whether it’s a bold splash of colour, a vintage finds or a carefully curated corner every part of her home tells a story.