EPISODE 6: Caltra, Co Galway
David is originally from Roscommon, but when Eleanor was growing up in bustling and vibrant Manila in the Philippines, she never imagined that her future home would be a doer-upper in rural Ireland that was once the local priest’s residence. But now they are both set to spend their first year as a married couple, renovating this property into their future family home.
Finding an available builder has become an impossible task, which means that these novice DIY-ers have to roll up their sleeves and take on the challenging business of renovating by themselves. Whilst David takes the technology route to DIY upskilling by using AI and YouTube tutorials. Healthcare worker Eleanor is getting first-hand training in lime plastering. But will their newly learnt skills be enough to make this home habitable?
Behind the formal façade of this presbytery lies the story of a rebel priest, who was driven out of the village for his own safety. And the love and respect the local community had for him.
Series overview
Last year, Hugh Wallace embarked on a journey to chart eight more restorations across Ireland. His excitement and enthusiasm about observing buildings being brought back to life was unmatched.
Six of those homes are now complete and ready to inspire the audience. By way of tribute to Hugh and with the help of his friend Brendan Courtney, this series will chart the homeowners journeys to transform six distinct, old buildings that had been left to rack and ruin, as they take on the behemoth task of reviving these buildings. From an old Schoolhouse in Westmeath to a derelict bank in Roscommon, the series tracks their progress as they transform these buildings into liveable homes.
Every aspect of the work is documented. From continuous delays to challenging budgets, from leaky buildings to battles fought – and challenges overcome. Every property is different and each brings with it its own unique set of problems for the brave homeowners, for whom every restoration is a labour of love.
Hugh passionately believed in saving our built heritage, not just to celebrate the crafts of the past, but to create homes fit for the future. In a time where so many struggle to find a place to call home, Hugh challenged us to see the potential in old walls, celebrated traditional methods and building techniques and pushed homeowners to be creative, the result being beautifully unique properties which will be cherished for decades to come.
This series celebrates Hugh’s lasting contribution to Irish architecture, how he helped people create homes, warmed hearts, and made countless people smile along the way.
The two final episodes in the series will be broadcast later this year.
