In this episode all about rugs, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Phoebe Holland, managing director of Rugs.ie, discussing the intricacies of rugs, their history, and the importance of quality in home decor.  

They explore various types of rugs, including Persian, Oriental, and Kilim, and delve into the craftsmanship behind them.

Phoebe shares insights on choosing the right rug for different spaces, the significance of material, and practical tips for care and maintenance. 

The conversation emphasizes the evolving role of rugs in modern interiors and the personalized service offered by Rugs.ie.  

The Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit https://farrellyandco.com/pod

Takeaways

• Rugs can significantly enhance the aesthetic of a home.
• Quality craftsmanship is essential in rug production.
• Persian and Oriental rugs have unique characteristics and histories.
• Choosing the right material is crucial for durability and maintenance.
• Rugs should be sized appropriately for the space they occupy.
• Layering rugs can add texture and warmth to a room.
• Rugs can be practical and stylish, suitable for busy households.
• Understanding the differences between hand-knotted and machine-made rugs is important.
• Rugs can be a long-term investment in home decor.
• Personalized service can help customers find the perfect rug for their needs.

A special bonus episode featuring snippets from the top 5 episodes from The Interior Podcast's first 50 episodes since launching in 2022.

These feature Susan McGowan of Ashen & Cloud, Eilish Rickard Interiors and Po McNamee (all interior designers) and builders/QS/engineer respectively, Shay Lally of Houses to Restore and Kieran McCarthy who you may know from RTE's Cheap Irish Homes.

Have a listen, find the original episodes if you like what you hear, and please subscribe, share and stay tuned as we continue with our new weekly cadence!

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Jean Koeppel of Visual Comfort delve into the world of lighting design. They discuss the importance of understanding different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—and how to effectively incorporate them into home design.   Jean shares insights on common mistakes people make when planning lighting, the significance of aesthetic choices, and the technical aspects of lighting such as Kelvin ratings and dimmers.   The conversation also touches on budgeting for lighting, the importance of material finishes, and the experience of visiting showrooms to see products in person. Overall, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their home lighting.   Takeaways:

• Lighting is essential for creating mood and functionality in a space.
• There are three main types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent.
• Common mistakes include not considering lighting early in the design process.
• Aesthetic choices in lighting can enhance the overall design of a room.
• Understanding lighting terminology helps in making informed choices.
• Material finishes in lighting can add character to a space.
• Budgeting for lighting should focus on high-impact areas of the home.
• Functional lighting should not be overlooked in favor of aesthetics.
• Technical aspects like Kelvin ratings and dimmers are crucial for effective lighting.
• Visiting showrooms allows for a better understanding of lighting products.

In this collaborative episode, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan joins the hosts of the Rip It Up podcast Jenny Sheehan (@workerscottage) and Kate O'Driscoll (@victorianrathmines) also a previous guest to discuss the most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them.   They emphasize the importance of planning layouts for functionality, budgeting for interior finishes, and the critical role of lighting in creating a welcoming atmosphere. The conversation is rich with insights and practical tips for anyone considering a renovation project.   Takeaways

• Planning your layouts is crucial for functionality
• Consider long-term needs when designing spaces
• Budget for interior finishes early in the renovation process
• Get multiple quotes to avoid overspending
• Lighting can transform a space and should be planned early
• Think about how you live in your space, not just aesthetics
• Storage solutions are key to maintaining a tidy home
• Flexibility in design allows for future changes
• Don't overlook the importance of electrical planning for lighting
• Choose timeless materials for long-lasting appeal

In this episode, architect Courtney McDonnell discusses her journey in architecture, her design philosophy, and the evolution of client needs in residential projects.   She shares insights into her award-winning projects, including the innovative Pink House and the transformative Griffith Avenue project, highlighting the importance of integrating interior and exterior design while addressing contemporary living requirements.   In this conversation, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Courtney McDonnell explore various aspects of contemporary design, focusing on the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, material choices, and the importance of personal style in creating unique living environments.   They discuss the challenges of navigating design trends and emphasize the significance of feeling comfortable in one's home. The conversation also highlights the role of color, texture, and practical materials in achieving a cohesive and inviting aesthetic.   Some key takeaways

• Courtney won two awards for her project, Griffith Avenue.
• She established her practice in 2017 after a diverse career in design.
• Her approach focuses on creating cohesive interior and exterior designs.
• Clients often seek innovative solutions for maximizing space.
• There is a shift away from traditional open-plan living.
• The Pink House project showcases a unique blend of color and design.
• Courtney emphasizes the importance of understanding client personalities.
• She advocates for clever modifications of existing spaces.
• The Griffith Avenue project involved a complete transformation of a dated home.
• Light and space are central themes in her architectural designs. The garden was in amazing condition, requiring no landscaping budget.
• Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances functionality.
• Creating cozy living spaces involves thoughtful layout and design.
• Achieving a minimalist look can be challenging with varied materials.
• Green tones can add warmth and depth to a design.
• Porcelain is a practical alternative to natural stone finishes.
• Understanding how spaces make you feel is crucial in design.
• Editing design choices helps in navigating overwhelming options.
• Transforming standard homes into unique spaces is achievable with thoughtful design.

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, Jade shares her inspiring journey of self-building her own home in Ireland.   From the initial decision to take on such a project to the challenges of planning permissions, budgeting, and managing local trades, Jade provides insights into the realities of building a home solo. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, making sacrifices, and learning through the process.   Jade's story serves as a motivational guide for anyone considering a self-build project, highlighting that with determination and the right mindset, it is possible to create your dream home. In this conversation, Tanya and Jade discuss the complexities and challenges of self-building a home, focusing on budgeting, material management, and the balance between DIY efforts and hiring professionals.   Jade discusses the realities of budgeting, prioritizing structural elements over aesthetics, and the emotional rollercoaster of the self-building process. Her story serves as a motivational guide for others considering a similar path, highlighting the value of perseverance and community support.  

In this episode, architect Sarah McNulty shares her journey in architecture, emphasizing the importance of empathy in understanding client needs. She discusses her experiences in building her own home, the diverse projects she undertakes, and the significance of a well-defined brief.    The conversation highlights the challenges of budget constraints, the importance of proportions in design, and the collaborative nature of architecture.   The conversation also highlights the significance of solar gain in design, emphasizing the balance between natural light and comfort in living spaces.   Sarah also reflects on a case study of a 1930s renovation, illustrating how client needs evolve and how architects can adapt to create functional and beautiful spaces.   In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate process of architectural design, from initial sketches to the complexities of planning regulations and tendering.    Sarah and Tanya discuss the importance of detailed drawings and bills of quantities in ensuring accurate pricing and project management.    Takeaways

• Empathy is crucial for architects to understand client needs.
• A well-defined brief leads to better architectural outcomes.
• Budget constraints often require compromises in design.
• Proportions in design significantly affect the feel of a space.
• Good design should reflect the client's personality and lifestyle.
• Collaboration between architects and interior designers enhances the final result.
• Understanding the emotional response to a space is essential.
• Architects should consider both interiors and exteriors from the start.
• The design process is iterative and may require adjustments on site.
• Investing time in the brief stage pays off in the long run. The design process begins with sketching to explore options.
• AutoCAD can make designs feel too rigid compared to sketches.
• Understanding planning regulations is crucial for project timelines.
• Detailed drawings are essential for accurate tendering and pricing.
• Bills of quantities help ensure builders price projects accurately.
• Building relationships with contractors is key during the tender stage.
• Solar gain is important for optimizing natural light in homes.
• Value engineering can help clients make cost-effective design choices.
• The architectural process can take a year from initial discussions to site work.
• Consultations with architects can improve project outcomes.

Interior designer & host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews fashion and interiors journalist Sarah Macken (aka @ohegartysarah) about personal style, its evolution, and the intersection of fashion and interiors.   They discuss the importance of authenticity in style, the tools available for developing a personal aesthetic, and the impact of social media on fashion choices.   Sarah shares her journey from fashion intern to editor and freelancer, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's preferences and the influence of various cultural elements on personal style. The discussion also touches on navigating trends, the language of interiors, and the joy of creating unique spaces.   Some key takeaways:

• Personal style evolves over time and is influenced by experiences.
• The three-word method can help distill personal style into practical, aspirational, and emotional descriptors.
• Social media can create pressure to conform to trends, but authenticity is key.
• Exploring various forms of art can enhance personal style and interior design.
• It's important to assess whether purchases align with personal style rather than trends.
• Finding unique pieces can be a rewarding process, especially in local markets.
• Balancing personal style with trends requires thoughtful consideration and experimentation.
• The language of interiors is less defined than fashion, allowing for more instinctive choices.
• Creating joyful spaces can be achieved through small, thoughtful purchases.
• Minimalism can be overused; it's essential to question if it truly resonates with personal taste.

Follow Sarah @ohegartysarah on Instagram Follow Tanya and the podcast at @tanyaneufeldflanagan and @theinteriorspodcast Get the latest on interiors and renovation tips and deep dives on podcast topics by joining Tanya's Substack or subscribing to The Interiors Newsletter  

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Jenny Balfe, social worker, mother of three and self-builder behind the @building_willow_cottage Instagram account.

Jenny and her husband have successfully self-built their dream family home in Wexford, 3km from Rosslare aided by their contractors, Next Level Construction.

In this episode, Jenny dives into how and why they opted to build and their journey to finding their site, including working with local planning authorities, evaluating county development plans and testing a site's drainage quality.

She worked closely with an architect technician to help identify the kind of home they could afford, and walks us through the revisions to the plans and sacrifices made along the way.

One of the key takeaways in the conversation centres on how the reduction in their bungalow's footprint allowed for the house to meet their brief while still ensuring they could have the finishes they wanted - a mistake many make when stretching themselves perhaps to have a larger house for the sake of it.

Jenny and her husband were able to design a home that suited their family's needs after renting for a long time and ideating on what their ideal home would look like, especially as their children ranged from 5 to 13 years old while they lived on-site in a mobile while building.

In the redesign process, Jenny talks about reducing bedroom size and number of bathrooms they actually needed, and how to ensure you have separate spaces for your family, plus some of the downfalls of open plan living.

We walk through some of the grants and the build process itself, why Jenny opted for a contractor versus the direct labour route which can offer savings but requires a lot more hands-on work and knowledge, as well as limited access to trades during times in which labour can be hard to find.

All this journey is amidst the backdrop of Ireland's housing crisis, and Jenny's self-build experience shows how buying a site and building a house from scratch can be done really effectively, achieving great value, and a home that fits your needs perfectly. It requires a lot of research and in-depth work on floorplans, and a lot of gumption.

Follow Jenny @building_willow_cottage to learn more about all her self-build and get helpful tips on everything from self-build mortgages to help with refining layouts.

Follow interior designer and host Tanya @tanyaneufeldflanagan and at the podcast's Instagram @theinteriorspodcast.

Welcome back to The Interiors Podcast! Today, Tanya is chatting design pet peeves with her friend Jenny, founder of Jennifer Anne Interiors. The two go on and on about their biggest interior design pet peeves.

This episode hopefully inspires and challenges you to look around in your space, and see where you can make some small and affordable adjustments. 

They start off discussing materiality pet peeves in homes. The materials chosen for a home can make a huge difference, from tile, porelain, and wood. Often people will opt for the fake version of a certain material, without realizing how it can dull and 'cheapen' a space. There are certain materials that are meant to have wear and tear, and some that will not actually last as long. 

They then go into the pet peeve of poorly designed kitchens. Both have seen very impractical and lazy kitchen designs. There are a lot of design mistakes that people make, such as excess bulky cupboards, or a washing machine in the kitchen. We spend a lot of time in our kitchens, and Jenny and Tanya give a lot of great tips to make sure the space does not end up getting cluttered and busy.

They also discuss how fashion and certain trends have started to take over, and people have lost their sense of personal style. They encourage people to really think through a certain choice when paying for something. Will it last long? Do they actually like it? Does it reflect their style?

Photographs, rugs, cushions, and blankets. They discuss it all. Where they should be placed, better fabric options, all things to think about when designing. (And no, you don't need that Dior coffee tabel book!)

This discussion is not intended to offend or make anyone feel like they have to make huge changes to their space if they have some of the mentioned designs already. Jenny and Tanya have seen loads of design mistakes, and they want people to be aware of them, while giving more practical choices, while encouraging them to stay true to their own personal style.

 

 

 

In this 2024 "WRAPPED" edition, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan whizzes through the 5 episodes released this year during her maternity leave, as well as behind-the-scenes on her Georgian protected structure renovation.

In today’s episode, Tanya is joined by seasoned real estate agent Matt Forkin, where they dive into Ireland’s property market.
With nearly two decades of experience, Matt shares his professional journey, starting in 2006, and how he weathered the turbulent 2008 financial crisis. He reflects on the evolution of his business, from starting in property management to becoming an independent real estate brand, Forkin Property.

Matt provides an insider look at the housing crash of 2008-2009, detailing the challenges of a stalled property market and how it still affects the market even today.

From a lack of mortgage lending to a market dominated by bank sales and receiverships, he explains how those formative years shaped his approach to the ever-changing real estate landscape. 

Shifting to present-day trends, Matt discusses his bread and butter, the property market in County Wicklow and beyond.

He highlights the rising demand for new builds, fueled by government affordability schemes which make it easier for first-time buyers to enter the market. He discusses rising construction costs and labor shortages which are pushing prices higher, creating a complex environment for buyers and developers. 

Matt explains why new developments are so appealing when it comes to community and lifestyle, especially for a first time buyer.
From energy-efficient designs to thoughtfully planned neighborhoods with amenities, these homes are ideal for families looking to settle into vibrant communities.

However, he also weighs the benefits of secondhand homes, which often offer better value per square foot, despite requiring renovations. New-builds are becoming more and more popular throughout Ireland, particularly Wicklow.

Matt offers valuable advice for families that outgrow their homes, and for second-time buyers navigating the market.

Should they extend their current property or take the leap into something new with more space? He stresses the importance of home presentation when selling, suggesting simple upgrades to attract higher offers.

Matt and Tanya explore the growing popularity of apartments, particularly among down-sizers and non-nationals who value accessibility and convenience.

He sheds light on the changing dynamics for Irish homebuyers, and offers insights for anyone looking to buy, sell, or invest in today’s property market.

This episode is a great discussion into Ireland’s current property market. Matt Forkin generously shares so much wonderful advice that buyers can use when considering their next move, or their current spaces. 

You can follow Forkin Property on Instagram HERE.

Their website is linked HERE. 

Host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses the emotional challenges of home renovations, offering insights into managing stress, burnout, and relationships during the process.

She shares her own personal experience renovating a Georgian protected structure as well as practical advice on navigating the stress and expectatons from the very beginning of your home journey through to snagging.

Takeaways

• Understand that stress and disappointment start to build up from the buying process
• Expect cumulative "micro-frustrations" throughout the renovation, and energy will ebb and flow
• Do as much as you can when you're excited about the project as it will stand to you when you hit roadblocks or have to make a lot of decisions in quick succession
• Stand up for your role as client, but also know when to walk away/hire different people
• Divide tasks based on skillset within your family to manage workload effectively
• Adapt to the informal nature of the trades industry to avoid resentment
• Keep detailed records of instructions to avoid misunderstandings
• Be prepared for unexpected costs and have a contingency plan
• Use creative energy from others to overcome challenges

Sound bites

• "Front-load decisions to avoid fatigue."
• "Adapt to the informal trades industry."
• "Keep detailed records of instructions."
• "Be prepared for unexpected costs."
• "Divide tasks based on skillset."

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Renovation Challenges
• 00:03:00 Managing Stress and Burnout
• 00:09:00 Planning and Design Insights
• 00:15:00 Navigating Unexpected Hurdles
• 00:21:00 Conclusion and Personal Reflections

Welcome back to the Interiors Podcast! Tanya makes a return after a six-month hiatus, featuring an in-depth conversation with Rachel and Alan Farrelly of Farrelly & Co, a Dublin-based paint company. The duo, both business partners and spouses, first walk through how they founded their company in early 2020 after returning from a three-year stint in Australia. Inspired by the types of design they encountered there, they set out to bring a more customer-focused and detail-oriented approach to the Irish painting industry.

Farrelly & Co’s business model and product line are tailored to a  clientele who value craftsmanship and authenticity. The company operates exclusively online, which allows them to maintain a direct relationship with their customers. They prioritize quality over mass appeal, and they’ve cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates their attention to detail and personalized service. 

Tanya, Alan and Rachel discuss how Farrelly & Co initially thrived despite launching at the onset of the pandemic. They talk about how lockdowns spurred a surge in demand for home renovations, giving the business a strong start. Using their backgrounds, they expanded their skill by launching a line of high-quality, eco-friendly paints in 2022. Their paint is non-toxic, vegan, and safe for children, embodying their commitment to sustainability and premium quality. 

They walk us through what the process is like to remove old layers of paint from period properties, and the true grunt work that goes into it. They then also discuss the common mistakes that other services will make when it comes to prep work and renovations. Their true expertise is their specific process with the prep work, and that’s what makes it so long lasting, making it a better investment for the consumer. 

Alan and Rachel discuss how precise they must be when picking the colors of someone’s home, and they do not cut any corners when it comes to making sure someone’s space is curated and then painted to perfection. They walk us through important steps when it comes to sampling, consulting, and coloring a room, as well as common mistakes to avoid in the process. They share the basics that people need to understand when it comes to picking colors for each specific room in their homes. 

They discuss color drenching, picking the right color for your trim or panelling, and the right paint finish for each room in your home. They are always conscious in their design, and they make sure to take their customers' lifestyle into account. They encourage their customers to take risks, be brave with colors, and to follow certain trends that can elevate a space. 

This conversation shows the importance of passion and adaptability in building a successful business. Despite the challenges of starting during a global pandemic, Farrelly & Co has established itself as a trusted name in paint products, carving out a distinctive place in a competitive market.

Welcome back to another episode of The Interiors Podcast. Today, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan had the pleasure of interviewing Shay Lally, QS and founder of Houses To Restore. Shay and Tanya got to discuss renovations and how to work around the challenges of the budgeting when you're considering buying a property. He also gives us an insight of how is Instagram came about, and where his passion for renovation began.

Houses To Restore originally started as an Instagram account that highlighted properties on the market and gave ideas on how a QS would restore each property, sharing budget and ideas. With the success of the account since the pandemic and property boom, Shay moved into consulting services and now offers a full design and build model with the company working with architects, engineers, interior designers and sub-contractors. 

Shay and Tanya discuss how tricky Dublin renovations can be to estimate when you're considering a property or have already bought. Shay and Tanya walk through his entire process in helping a client with a renovation from seeing a property that's on a market to initial costing plans all the way through to project managing an extension or refurb.

Shay discusses the range of costs homeowners can expect depending on the type of property and access and whether kitchens, bathrooms or windows are being updated. They also dive into the cost of an extension and some other "hidden" costs like VAT and professional fees people may not consider until it is too late in the process.

There are a lot of issues that can pop up when purchasing and renovating a home, and Shay emphasizes the importance of seeking out guidance and having a good architect and team working on a space, as well as having a QS to evaluate all aspects of the renovation process. Shay goes into detail about cost plans and how the owner can tweak their renovation and budget to suit their lifestyle needs.

Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of renovation and interior design. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle. 

Resources 

You can learn more about Shay Lally and Houses To Restore on their website: https://www.housestorestore.ie/

Follow Shay on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/houses_to_restore

Welcome back to The Interiors Podcast. In this episode, host interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses inspiration, aspiration, and Irish design with IMAGE Interiors magazine editor Megan Burns. We dive behind the scenes of this iconic biannual magazine and what makes it so special and influential in the Irish interiors scene.

The IMAGE Interiors ethos is to highlight the best of Irish design and craft. Megan Burns, who has recently taken over as editor, explains that ‘trends’ are less of a major focus, but rather showcasing themes, artisans and homes that tell a story and enlighten the viewer. 

We discuss how Irish design is evolving and how every reader can bring something that they see in the magazine into their own spaces. True to their more editorial and curated aesthetic, IMAGE Interiors make an effort to put forth unique interiors homes in every issue. Megan emphasizes that it is important for people to do what THEY want in their homes, rather than adhering themselves to what they think is appropriate in their homes. She encourages viewers to proceed with less caution in approaching how they want their spaces to look.

IMAGE Interiors features many different projects, designers, architects, and focus on the sustainability of the designs being shown - every issue feels timeless and like it could sit on your coffee table without aging out. Megan and Tanya discuss how even though the magazine can include many seemingly complicated designs, it is still focused on making sure that anyone can read and enjoy. IMAGE Interiors seeks to inspire the viewer to think about their own style in an authentic and courageous way, no matter where they are living. 

Join us next time for more insights and inspiring stories from the world of interior design. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle.

Resources

You can learn more about IMAGE and the IMAGE interiors magazine on their website - https://www.image.ie/

Find them on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/image_interiors/

Follow Megan - https://www.instagram.com/megan_burns___/

Welcome back to another episode of The Interiors Podcast. I want to share with you the enlightening journey we took in our latest episode titled "How to Craft Effortless Elegance for Your Lifestyle and Property" with the esteemed interior designer Po McNamee. We delved deep into the art of creating spaces that exude a unique blend of restrained glamour and effortless elegance, a signature style that Po is renowned for.

 

Po, with her 15-20 years of experience in luxury, domestic, and commercial properties, enlightened us with her philosophy of intertwining clients' personalities within their homes. She emphasizes the joy of working on personal projects, bringing clients' visions to life, and the excitement of restoration projects. Her expertise shines through in her ability to modernize while respecting the heritage and character of spaces.

 

We explored the intricate process of interior design, particularly in restoration projects. Po detailed how her team collaborates with architects and other professionals, focusing on interior architecture to ensure that the essence of each project remains strong from concept to completion. She stressed the importance of being involved early in projects, ensuring clients' desires are met, and avoiding costly redirections.

 

The highlight of our conversation was Po's description of her style - elegant, yet restrained, with a focus on quality materials and art. She loves incorporating natural materials and colors, adding touches of fun and personality through unexpected elements. Her approach is client-centric, valuing their input and ideas, which often become the magic in the projects.

 

Listeners, this episode isn't just about interior design; it's a testament to the power of listening to clients, understanding their needs, and transforming their spaces into something that not only looks beautiful but feels like home. Po's work is a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and client's personality, which makes each project unique and personal.

 

Join us next time for more insights and inspiring stories from the world of interior design. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle!

 

Resources

Follow Po on Instagram @pomcnameedesign

In our latest episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Susan McGowan of Ashen and Cloud, a beacon of creativity in Ireland's interior design scene. We dove deep into a topic that many of you have pondered over – how to steer clear of a bland aesthetic in your living spaces. Susan’s insights are a goldmine for anyone yearning to infuse their homes with character and individuality.

Susan's journey from a music-oriented background to the pinnacle of interior design is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Her approach to each project is refreshingly unique, shaped by her experiences and a keen eye for merging client desires with artistic expression. We discussed various design categories – from contemporary sleekness to the intricate charm of refurbishments – each requiring a nuanced touch to achieve balance and allure.

One of the standout stories from Susan was about a project in Kerry, where a traditional farmhouse meets modern design. It's a vivid example of blending the old and new, using natural materials and colors drawn from the surrounding landscape. This project alone could spark a million ideas in your mind about your own home!

We also tackled the ever-daunting kitchen design, where Susan provided sage advice on avoiding 'safe' choices that lead to uninspiring spaces. She encouraged bold decisions, like choosing standout features carefully, to create a kitchen that's not just functional but also a reflection of your personality.

Our conversation took a fascinating turn when discussing a project for clients relocating to a contemporary new build in their retirement. The challenge here was integrating their cherished antiques into a modern setting – a true test of Susan and her team's creative prowess.

And of course, Susan shared her golden rule – detailed planning is key. Whether it's furniture, lighting, or artwork, considering every element from the get-go is essential to avoid bland interiors. She also had a reassuring message about design trends: It's less about following them and more about creating spaces that resonate with your personal style and life's moments.

For those needing a bit of professional guidance, Susan mentioned the various services offered by Ashen and Cloud, from comprehensive design to helpful consultations.

How to Connect with Susan McGowan:

1. Instagram: Follow Susan and her team’s latest projects and get inspired by their unique designs at @AshenandCloud.

2. Website: Discover more about Susan’s work, philosophy, and the range of services offered by visiting the Ashen and Cloud website: AshenandCloud.com.

Through these platforms, you can explore Susan's portfolio, and perhaps even find inspiration for your next design project. Whether it's a full-scale renovation or simply seeking a fresh perspective on your living space, Susan’s expertise is just a click away.

Remember, each episode of the Interiors Podcast strives to bring you closer to the heart of home design, featuring professionals like Susan who are reshaping the way we think about our living spaces.

Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions!

In our latest episode of the Interiors Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the ever-insightful Ciara Elliott, editor of House & Home magazine. We delved deep into the heart of today's housing market, sharing personal stories and the emotional rollercoaster many face when making housing decisions.

 

Ciara and I explored the beauty of personalizing our approach to homes, emphasizing the need to listen to our hearts rather than just market trends. We laughed about the elusive "perfect home" and the dangers of waiting for that ideal moment to buy or sell. Ciara's candid advice on staying open to various housing possibilities, like the charming idea of dropping notes in doors of desired areas, truly resonated with me.

 

Our chat also touched on the power of DIY and the transformative nature of personalizing our spaces. We discussed the importance of living in the present, making choices that resonate with our current needs, and the joy of creating a home that truly reflects who we are. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the housing market or just need some heartwarming insights on making a house a home, this episode is a must-listen!

 

Resources

You can find out more about the House & Home Magazine through their website - https://www.houseandhome.ie/

Find them on Instagram - @houseandhomemagazine

Also you can find Ciara and look at her own home journey @ciaraelliott

As we kick off season three of the Interiors Podcast, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the gems from season two. From interviewing industry experts to diving deep into personal home renovation stories, we've covered a lot.

 

Jenny Butler shared her transition from commercial to residential design, revealing how her experience influenced her own home's design. I also shared a solo episode on creating your unique style, a formula to ensure your home reflects your personal taste while staying true to its architecture. And for those DIY enthusiasts, Vivian McKendry's journey of climbing the property ladder and her DIY successes (and a few lessons learned) is a must-listen.

 

We had inspiring homeowners like Rob Hennessy, who took on a massive renovation project during the pandemic, and the behind-the-scenes of our new home featured on RTÉ's Home of the Year.

 

For those diving into the technical side, the episode with Dogwood Designs demystifies joinery, breaking down the differences in materials and costs. Kate O’Driscoll's pivot into renovation consulting after her DIY journey with a Victorian home offers insights for those early in their renovation planning. And if you're on a tight budget, Kieran McCarthy's practical advice from the show "Cheap Irish Homes" is invaluable.

 

Lastly, for those navigating the maze of planning permissions, Luke Wymer's episode is a comprehensive guide, especially if you're dealing with historical properties.

 

As we move forward, I promise to continue bringing you both inspiration and practical tips. If you have any recommendations or want to connect, reach out on our Instagram.

 

Thanks for being part of this journey, and I can't wait to share more in season three!

 

Make sure to follow the podcast on whatever platform you are listening. 

Find me on Instagram @theinteriorspodcast

 

 

Episodes Covered in Season Two:

1. Episode 16: Bringing the best of commercial interiors home with interior architect Jennifer Anne Interiors

2. Episode 17: Finding your interiors style & inspiration with a story

3. Episode 18: A lesson in DIY design and renovation with Vivian McKendry of @the.project.home

4. Episode 19: Combining passion and practicality in a Great House Revival with Rob Hennessey

5. Episode 20: Our Home and RTE's Home of the Year

6. Episode 21: The 101 of joinery & custom kitchens with Dogwood Designs

7. Episode 22: A DIY approach to period properties with renovation consultant Kate O’Driscoll

8. Episode 23: The 101 to planning a renovation with build expert Kieran McCarthy

9. Episode 24: A Portobello home makeover by designer Sophie Lundstrom Halbert

10. Episode 25: A guide to your planning journey with Planning Consultant Luke Wymer

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast I am chatting with Luke Wymer, a planning consultant with a large planning and development consultancy here in Dublin. Luke shares his wisdom and expertise when it comes to the planning process both on a professional level and also in his own life since he purchased a protected home in Greystones, Co Wicklow.

 

The episode delves into the realities of historical property projects, emphasizing the importance of being aware of their timelines and costs.

 

In this episode Luke talks us through the planning application process, everything from the standard application for an extension right up to more complicated processes for period / protected homes.

 

We speak about how restoring a historic property often involves strict guidelines and regulations, such as using identical materials for repairs and following specific repair methods, which can add significant costs to the project.

 

This episode is full of so many helpful guidelines for anybody that has recently purchased and is thinking about making changes or for those who are currently looking for a property.

 

Resources

You can find Luke via his company website - http://jsaplanning.ie/

Irish Planning Institute - https://ipi.ie/

If you are considering works that will need planning - check out your local county councils' List of Exemptions / Limitations

 

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, I am speaking with designer Sophie Lundstrom Halbert, who along with her husband, Architect Ronan Kenny, moved back from the US to Ireland to their unique red brick Victorian terrace townhouse in Portobello, Dublin.

Sophie and Ronan's home recently featured in House and Home Magazine, and looking at this illustration I can see why, its so beautiful with so much personality.

Sophie stresses the importance of embracing the ongoing process of decorating and evolving your space, rather than striving for a finished, perfect home. She explains that your taste in decor can change over time, and it's okay to switch things up or rearrange furniture. By relieving the pressure of having a "done" home, you can make better decisions and enjoy the process of creating a space that reflects your personality and style.

Sophie speaks about being inspired by her and Ronan's travels and experiences and bringing elements of those experiences into their home.

We discuss the importance of taking your time when making decisions and finding pieces that truly fit your space and style.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of considering the context of your home and the overall style of your space when making decorating choices.

This was such a wonderful episode as I got to chat with Sophie about how creating a home that tells a story of your journey and personalities is essential and can be achieved by balancing smart decisions and splurges when decorating.

This episode is perfect for anybody who is not ready for a full makeover, instead would like a refresh.

 

Resources:

Follow Sophie on Instagram @__thesoph__

Sophie's brand @thermakota

This episode of The Interiors Podcast features Kieran McCarthy from KMC Homes and the hit tv show Cheap Irish Homes. Kieran talks about his background in civil engineering and how he eventually ended up in the house building business.

 

This episode is jam packed with so much essential information for anybody who is looking to purchase a home, renovate their existing home or considering extending. Kieran has information that will allow you gauge where your budget can be spent and how far it could stretch. 

 

For so many facing into these types of projects, this world can be daunting and hard to navigate, Kieran gives us some guidance on where we should start, what we should be looking for and how to make the most of what you have. 

 

Resources:

KMC Homes - https://kmchomes.ie/

Check out Kieran's podcast on all platforms: Built Around You Podcast

Follow Kieran on Instagram: @kierankmc

In this episode, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Grace McNally from McNally Joinery, discussing the importance of joinery in interior design and architecture.

They explore the evolution of McNally Joinery, the services offered, the design process, and the benefits of bespoke joinery. Grace shares insights on material choices, the significance of specialization, and the collaboration with clients and other trades.

The conversation highlights the value of investing in key joinery pieces and the unique aspects of timber compared to other materials. Grace also discusses exciting current projects and encourages listeners to reach out for bespoke joinery solutions.

Takeaways

• Joinery is essential in transforming spaces.
• McNally Joinery has a rich history since 1978.
• Bespoke joinery offers unique solutions tailored to clients.
• Specialization in joinery leads to better quality and efficiency.
• Supply and installation options are flexible based on client needs.

Sound bites

"Specialization is key in joinery."
"Bespoke means the sky's the limit."
"Don't be ashamed to ask for a price."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joinery and McNally Joinery
03:09 Specialization in External Joinery
07:40 Design Process and Client Collaboration
11:12 Combining Materials and Collaborating with Other Trades
12:12 Benefits of Bespoke Joinery
15:02 Investment in Key Joinery Pieces
16:21 Material Choices for Bespoke Joinery
18:57 Timber vs. Metal in Joinery
22:53 Weatherproofing and Structural Integrity
29:18 The Aesthetic and Emotional Value of Timber
30:54 Choosing the Right Materials for Durability
32:11 Understanding MDF vs. Solid Timber
33:59 Timber Selection for Internal Doors
36:16 The Role of Veneering in Joinery
41:03 Exciting Projects: A Unique Front Door
43:16 The Impact of Bespoke Joinery on Space
45:04 Managing Staircase Changes in Renovations
47:20 Getting Started with Your Joinery Project
50:08 Understanding Lead Times for Custom Work
53:31 The Importance of Budget Conversations

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, I am chatting with Kate O’Driscoll.  Kate and her husband took on huge renovation works on their Victorian home in Rathmines, Kate documented this journey on her Instagram page @victorianrathmines.  Their home also was a finalist on RTE’s Home of the Year in 2021. 

 

In this episode, Kate talks about her experience renovating a derelict Victorian house in Dublin for eight months with her husband.   We delve into this mammoth job, from preserving original elements like stairs and architraves, to electric’s and plumbing.  Kate details the process of flipping a house and the complexities that come with it.

 

Kate imparts so much knowledge and experience in this episode, so if you are considering any kind of renovation project, even if it’s a smaller one than their Victorian home, this is a great episode for you. 

 

She tells us how renovating a house yourself can be a daunting task, but it can also be immensely rewarding. Doing your own renovations can save you money, give you a sense of accomplishment, and let you add your own personal touch to your home. For people who are up for the challenge, taking on a renovation project can be a very rewarding experience.

 

Because of her experience and her background in design, Kate has now established a career as a renovation consulting expert, offering services to help others renovate their own home projects, check out Kate’s website via the resources below.

 

Resources:

Follow Kate on Instagram: @victorianrathmines

Kitchen: Savy Kitchens - @savvy.kitchens

 

In Episode 21 of the Interiors Podcast, we are joined by Danny and Anna from Dogwood Designs, a specialist joinery business based in Westport, County Mayo. 

 

Dogwood Designs specialize in custom made kitchens and bathroom vanities, primarily using birch ply and hardwoods. They have a contemporary and sleek style, with no hardware, influenced by their backgrounds in both Ireland and Australia. This episode explains the role of a specialist joiner, such as themselves, and how they can help customers with design and fitting.

We walk through the difference between a carpenter and a joiner and the importance of contacting a kitchen designer early on in a project. This episode also sets out where homeowners can potentially save money, such as having their builder fit the joinery, and provides insights into joinery aesthetics, functionality, durability, and sustainability

 

This episode will provide you with an abundance of helpful tips and education on joinery if you are looking to invest in your home right now or in the future. 

 

Custom joinery specialists like Dogwood Designs are essential for creating unique, functional, and beautiful spaces. With their attention to detail and expertise, they are able to craft custom joinery products that meet the needs and desires of their customers, and designs that will last for so many years. 

 

This episode really is a 101 of all things joinery, which I know you will love!

 

Resources:

Website: Dog Wood Joinery https://www.dogwooddesigns.ie/

Instagram: @westport.dogwood

 

Episode 20 of the Interiors Podcast is a very special episode.

 

Today I am sharing the story of my own home which we are delighted to say was featured on RTE's Home of the Year 2023 competition.

 

Before finding this home myself and my husband had been living in rentals, and we were always keeping our eyes open for potential homes to buy. We knew the areas we wanted to live around and after a looking at a few houses we found our current home which was for sale, we decided to have a look inside and we knew right away that this was for us.

 

I am sharing my experiences of how we got the absolutely best from our spaces, how we incorporated our love for our surroundings, and how we brought our family history into our home.

 

Our home was my first project in my journey into interiors, and I have thoroughly loved every moment. We really do hope that you enjoy the episode of Home of the Year.

 

Watch the episode

 

Resources

Home of the Year Episode - WATCH NOW

Follow me on Instragram @tanyaneufeldflanagan

Follow the Interiors Podcast on Instagram @theinteriorspodcast

 

 

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, Rob Hennessey joins us on the show to discuss his renovation project on a Victorian terraced house overlooking the River Lee. Rob was the subject of season three episode one of The Great House Revival.

 

Rob took on this project with a limited budget and no prior experience of construction work. He did have the support of his father, who's been in the construction industry for years. 

 

Rob talks about how himself and his partner Katie moved into a freezing cold construction site, how the house originally had no heating, just fireplaces, and how he was drawn to the house for its character and breath-taking views of the harbour.

 

Yet again, as with so many other renovation episodes of the Interiors Podcast, Rob tells us about the importance of enlisting the support and services of experts, understanding what you can easily do yourself to save money and what expertise must be brought onto a project.

 

In this episode we speak about all the DIY aspects of the renovation and how Rob managed to keep on top of his budget, and he shares some valuable tips to managing a tight budget.

 

Rob's story is truly inspirational, a journey of one man who found a spectacular house that needed so much love and attention, but didn't let that stop him going after his dream home.

 

You can follow Rob on Instagram @victorian_renovation_glenbrook. On this page Rob shares so many of his learnings, and this will help anybody who is thinking about taking on a renovation project.

 

I hope this episode will inspire you to not allow the scale of a project put you off the home of your dreams.

 

RESOURCES:

Follow Rob on Instagram - @victorian_renovation_glenbrook

Sola Energy Solutions - https://sola.ie/

Kingspan - https://www.kingspan.com/ie

Savvy Kitchens - http://www.savvykitchens.ie/

Serpentine Interiors - https://www.serpentineinteriors.ie/

Paint colours mentioned are from Farrow & Ball -https://www.farrow-ball.com/

 

A lesson in DIY design and renovation in today’s episode of The Interiors Podcast. We are speaking with Vivian McKendry of @the.project.home.

 

Vivian moved to Ireland with her husband from Hong Kong. Before leaving Hong Kong, she worked in the construction sector as a project manager, where she was exposed to the creative side of interiors and managing projects for hotels, clubs and offices. This role really leads nicely into the DIY renovation journey Vivian found herself taking here in Ireland.

 

Vivian also runs her own business, One More Thing, that specialises in unique interior pieces along with some stunning dried and preserved flowers bouquets and decorations. So, she really does have a creative flair and an eye for beautiful design.

 

Vivian and her husband's first home after moving back to Ireland was an 1980's constructed small home in Dublin. But the size did not restrict Vivian’s design flair and eye for detail, as she made use of every space to ensure her home was not only beautiful but also liveable.

 

After a few years in this home and Vivian's e-commerce business taking off, they soon outgrew this small space, so began the hunt for their next place to call their own. The size home they knew they needed was just not affordable in Dublin for them at that time, but because COVID was changing people's ideas of working locations, they realised that they didn't need to be held to living in Dublin, and that they could cast their net even further, so began to look around Dublin's border counties. A trip to The Curragh, in Co Kildare, showed them exactly where they wanted their next home to be.  

After a false start, they finally found their home.  It was quite a big step up from their 80sqm home in Dublin, this new property was a 5 bedroom 300sqm house, but this didn’t phase them at all. 

 

In this episode, Vivian tells her all about how her project management skills allowed her to design and plan her new beautiful home, what services and trades they employed, and what jobs they took on themselves.

 

This episode is such an interesting story about what is possible and what is available for the work of a DIYER. We talk about the importance of understanding what you want for your home and then finding suppliers and experts that can execute that dream, and how key it is to have good relationships with those suppliers and experts.

 

Even if you are not about to take on a huge renovation journey like Vivian and her husband did, this episode will inspire you to dream about what is possible in your own space. 

 

Resources:

Follow Vivian and her renovation journey on Instagram:  The Project Home by Vivian @the.project.home

Vivian's interiors business:  One More Thing - https://onemorething.ie/

 

Floor planning: https://floorplanner.com/

Kitchen design: Peter Bourke, The Kitchen Shop - @tksdesigns_thekitchenshop

Builder: Peter Doyle from Bridgefield Construction Ltd

Wood experts: http://www.woodworkers.ie/

Windows: Vindr VS Windows - https://vindrvs.com/

Tiles: Tile Merchant - https://www.tilemerchant.ie/ / Floor tiles @tilestyle / Zellige tiles @tile.expert

Marble dining table: @westelmuk

 

 

We are changing up our episode style slightly for season two. Each month I will bring you a guest expert episode but also, we will have a shorter focus burst episode, where I will bring you topics and insights on how you design your space with ease.

 

When I speak with friends and family or clients, I find that so many are unsure about what their style is, people get confused if what they like and don't like doesn't fit into one style box.

 

I want to guide you to find your own interior style, with a story. Understanding your story will allow you to have design your space more simply. It will also enable you to bring together pieces that you already own with new purchases to ensure there is cohesiveness and harmony within your space. 

 

Understanding and really delving deep into what you like and what you don’t like, what fits with your lifestyle, and what marries well with the style of home that you will be living in and the surroundings, will really help stop you being sucked into different trends. For most people, when they are thinking about renovation or making some changes in their home they jump head first into Pinterest and start pinning everything that they love the look of. And whilst this can be helpful, it can also mean that we start trying to recreate somebody else's look or style. And more often than not this look that you are trying to recreate has been created by an interior designer with large budgets and possibly years of experience. So it can be unrealistic.

 

In this episode, I am going to guide you through what you need to understand to create that story, your narrative. Following these steps will make sure that you don't fall down that Pinterest rabbit hole, it will mean that you will be able to design your full home or even a space within your home with complete ease and confidence, armed with the knowledge and understanding of what works for you, your family and your lifestyle.

 

I hope you really enjoy this episode, it is my goal to make design a little less daunting or challenging.

 

Reach out to me on Instagram @theinteriorspodcast and let me know what you thought.

 

Also, please leave us a testimonial / review on whatever platform you are listening so that we can reach more home owners to give them our support too. And make sure you follow the podcast so you don't miss an episode.

 

This is our first guest episode of season two of The Interiors Podcast.

 

I am excited to bring you this episode with Jenny Butler of Jennifer Anne Interiors.

 

Jennifer has many years of experience within the interiors industry, most notably seven years spent at architecture firm Henry J Lyons where she worked in hospitality and other commercial spaces before going out on her own recently.

 

This episode is perfect for anybody who is looking at taking on a renovation project, or updating their home to make it more functional whilst keeping their style and comfort.

 

I speak with Jenny about how her parents’ decision to embark on an Edwardian house project when she was a child sparked a love for interiors.  How her journey through this industry has taken her from working on huge  commercial projects in hotels and office spaces to where she is today, running her own residential design firm Jennifer Anne Interiors.

 

Jenny has also embarked on a project to renovate a small cottage for herself and her husband to live in. This was not a project for the faint hearted as the walls were literally crumbling away in theirs hands. 

 

Jenny shares with us so many amazing hints and tips on how to create a space that you can use. The importance of understanding your lifestyle and how you move around a space before you make those design decisions. And how you can keep your budget in check and still not compromise those style elements of your design.

 

We also talk about the mistakes people fall into when making decisions about the layout of their home and the items that they are choosing to purchase to furnish their home, like sofas and kitchens etc. 

 

This episode is jam packed with so many valuable tips for anybody who is planning, already started or just toying with the idea of a new renovation project or updating their current home.

 

Enjoy the episode

 

Don't miss another episode, make sure you follow the show

And please, if you enjoyed this episode and the show, leave us a review on whatever platform you are listening in on, and please share the show with your friends and family.

 

Resources

Follow Jenny on Instagram @jenniferanneinteriors

https://www.jenniferanneinteriors.com/

From floors to ceilings, curtains to cushions, architects to interior designers. What a first year for the Interiors Podcast. We have reached the end of season 1, and it has been so amazing to hear from the most inspirational homeowners and industry experts with years of experience and knowledge. We have spoken about building and renovating, choosing paint, deciding when to invest in professional support, the ups and downs of all aspects of renovations and everything in between. 

 

In this episode I recap on all the highlights of our first season together. If you would like to listen back to any of those episodes you can easily find them via the link below, there are some invaluable episodes in there if you are ready to take on a home renovation, build your own home or are simply looking for ways to refresh and elevate your current home.

LISTEN BACK TO THE INTERIORS PODCAST

 

Make sure you are following us over on Instagram so that you don't miss another episode, you can find us @theinteriorspodcast.

We are very excited for season 2, packed full of more advice, hints and tips. Bringing you homeowners who have walked this path before you and industry experts imparting their years of knowledge, all in one place.  This is the ultimate podcast for the home diy’er, the renovator, or anybody who is thinking about building their own dream space

We are looking for guests for season 2, so if you know anybody who our listeners would love to hear about their story, please let us know, you can DM us directly. 

Thank you for listening to our wonderful podcast.  See you in Season 2.

 

Resources

Listen back to any episodes - CLICK HERE

Instagram - @theinteriordspodcast

Website - www.tanyaneufeld.com

Ireland's best kept secret

 

In today's episode, Harry Maharaj from Kilkenny Architectural Salvage talks us through the misconceptions people have around salvage yards and how there are some hidden gems to be found.

 

Salvage yards are an eclectic mix of items. And as Ireland's largest salvage yard, sitting on 90,000 sq feet, Kilkenny Architectural Salvage is the ultimate of eclectic mixes. From old pub signs, to stone water features, sash windows to solid timber floors. An hour spent wandering around here could send you home with such unique pieces and treasures to add to your home.

 

Kilkenny Architectural Salvage is a family run business which is located on the north side of Kilkenny, it was once an old woolen mills built in the 1800's. The yard is run by Harry, his two brothers and their dad. Harry's Dad, Robin, set up the business over 20 years ago after returning from the UK and seeing that there was a need for salvage and repurposing items in Ireland. The Yard provides a happy hunting ground for anybody who is looking to undertake a home renovation, building a new property or simply looking to find that unique gift for somebody special.

 

We speak about sustainability and how now more than ever this is so important. The salvage yard will allow you to acquire a stunning piece while doing your bit for the environment.

 

If you are renovating your home, thinking of making some changes, building your dream home or anywhere between this episode is full of ideas, and tips on how you can make your money go even further whilst achieving that high quality look. Even if you are not planning any work at home, it is an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon in Kilkenny.

 

Resources

You can find them on Instagram: @kilkennyarchitecturalsalvage

Website: https://www.eurosalve.com/

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Eilish Rickard. Eilish, of Eilish Rickard Interiors, is a much sought after interior designer for those seeking to elevate their homes with her classic-meets-contemporary style.

 

We speak about the importance of cohesion within your home, from your floors to your walls. One wonderful and insightful tip from Eilish for anybody looking to change the look and feel of their home, is that the paint colour doesn't have to be the first decision made, it can be almost one of the last. Eilish tells us how using a piece of art that you already own, or a rug that you treasure can begin the design journey.

 

Eilish imparts so many excellent ideas in this episode for styling your home. The importance of creating a feeling in a room, looking at your surroundings, experiencing colour in different light.

 

This episode was brought to you by Dwell by Eilish Rickard, in this beautifully curated shop you will find interiors styling & decorative objects for the casual classic home.

Shop our Black Friday sale from Friday November 25th to Monday November 28th 

https://dwellbyeilishrickard.com/

 

You can find Eilish on Instagram @eilishrickardinteriors or visit her website

https://www.eilishrickardinteriors.com/

 

 

In this mini episode of the Interiors Podcast amidst a choatic move, interior designer and host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses the five biggest misconceptions about interior design.

She emphasizes that interior design is not just a luxury for the wealthy, but a crucial aspect of improving quality of life and maximizing space.

The conversation covers the importance of understanding the true nature of interior design, which goes beyond mere aesthetics to include functionality, budget considerations, and the need for a cohesive design strategy.

Takeaways

• Interior design is a transformational tool for improving quality of life.
• It's not just a luxury; it's essential for maximizing space.
• Interior design involves optimizing layouts, not just choosing furnishings.
• Budgets for quality interior design can be significantly higher than expected.
• Interior design can save on construction costs by optimizing existing spaces.
• It's better to execute interior design projects all at once for efficiency.
• Interior designers help question and refine client assumptions about their needs.
• The bespoke nature of interior design contributes to its cost.
• Interior design overlaps with essential renovation finishes.
• A cohesive design strategy is crucial for successful interior projects.

 

In this week's episode we speak with homeowner Mary Rose Simpson, who took on a big scale renovation of old family home.

Mary Rose's beautiful home came to our attention when she appeared on The Great House Revival on RTÉ.

Mary Rose moved home to Stradbally, Co Laois in 2019 and then inherited her grandmothers home. This home had so much emotion and so many memories attached to it, she tells us the story about how the renovation started and the journey she embarked on to have the beautiful home she lives in today.

Mary tells us about what a difficult journey renovation can be. But how rewarding it is when you reach the end, how you will then have a home that brings you so much joy.

We speak about her vision for the home, the professional services that she engaged with, the ideas she had for her home, the emotional connection to this family home and everything in between.

This episode is perfect for anyone contemplating this journey, or for anybody who is interested in understanding what taking on a renovation can be like. Mary gives us some wonderful insight into the highs and lows of renovation in this very honest episode.

There is so much detail in this episode, we would suggest you pop over and check out Mary Rose on Instagram @maryrosesimpson, so that you can visualize everything while listening.

This episode with Ciara and Richie is full of hints and tips for anybody who is on the renovation journey or considering renovation as the way for them to achieve the home they dream of. 

Ciara and Richie tell us how it's so important to understand your checklist of not only where you want to live, but also understanding what is important to you in terms of inside space and outside space.

They bought their house and moved in, they lived there whilst preparing all their plans for their renovation and figuring out what style they wanted, what was important for them and their lifestyle and where their money would be best spent. 

As with other renovation & self build episodes here on the Interiors Podcast, both Ciara and Richie emphasise the importance of investing in good and trustworthy architects and other professionals. They tell us how their Architect (Courtney McDonnell Studio) was more than just a designer for them, she took the role of project manager. She helped them work through this mammoth process, liaising with tradespeople, and supporting them with decisions that needed to be made and sometimes needed to be made quickly.

Check out all the resources mentioned in this episode below, also check out Ciara & Richie's Instagram page @howstellagotherhouseback for so many more resources and inspiration for anybody embarking on this journey.

Resources

Stella, Ciara and Richie's Instagram: @howstellagotherhouseback

Architect: Courtney McDonnell Studio @courtneymcdonnell_studio

Pink Door: Door: @vindrvswindowsanddoors / Colour: @farrowandball - Calamine

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, I chat with Ciara O'Halloran. Ciara is a Interior stylist and freelance creative director.

 

Ciara has always been immersed in a creative world, growing up she was surrounded by music. At 18 when decisions had to be made about her next step, interiors wasn’t yet a huge interest, so music won out and she undertook her masters.

 

Fast forward 10 years and through her experience planning and organising her wedding, Ciara fell in love with the story telling side of design. Also, working with her wedding photographer led her to other opportunities, which brought her into the editorial world of styling where she still sits today.

 

Ciara believes that styling is essentially the art of arranging spaces or things beautifully. Ciara believes it is a skillset anyone can learn and can have a huge impact on a space when used effectively and authentically. 

 

Ciara speaks about her move back to Cork, when herself and her family purchased a renovated Georgian building which had been converted into apartments. We speak about how she brought all her styling experience into this new blank canvas, allowing her families personalities to shine through. 

 

Ciara explains the difference between interior styling and interior design. 

 

If you would like some amazing hints and tips on styling your home then this is the episode for you, Ciara talks us through how styling can elevate your everyday spaces.

 

Resources

If you would like to reach Ciara you can find her on Instagram @ciara.o.halloran

In this week's episode I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Sarah Duggan. Sarah's home was featured on RTE Home of the Year 2022.

 

Sarah tells us all about their house search, how the time they spent looking at the market allowed them to figure out what they didn't want in a home as much as what they did want.  She tells us about how a chance viewing found them this 74sq m house in Portobello, Dublin.

 

They have made the most from this small space, while knowing that it probably wouldn't be their forever home, but it was their now home. This is a wonderful episode for anybody looking to get on the property ladder and anybody looking for inspiration of what to do if the space isn't exactly their first choice.

After purchasing the house they had to do a full renovation, rewiring, plumbing, insulation, the works with hard decisions along the way about extender or adapted the space they had.  

 

In this episode Sarah shares some valuable tips from her experience of undertaking this massive project, for you to learn from and take on board if this is something that you would consider

 

We also speak about the importance of using an architect on any renovations, but especially when space is limited, for them this has meant that every inch has been utilized.  Also working closely with other experts such as joiners has meant that they have cleverly created solutions in this small space. 

 

You can find Sarah on Instagram Sarah Duggan @portobellorenovation

 

Resources

1. EMMET DUGGAN - architect

2. Chartlon Construction

3. Ben Kerrigan / Kerwood Design (kitchens/joinery)

4. Clara Joinery

5. Dublin Mouldings

6. Antique Fireplace Restorations

7. Gaff Interiors (vintage and thrifted furniture)

8. CADesign.ie (midcentury replica furniture)

9. Made.com (mid-range contemporary furniture)

10. House and Home article 

Today I have the pleasure of talking with Dublin-based architect Graham O’Sullivan.

 

With over 15 years’ experience, Graham’s career has brought him from his beginnings in Galway looking after residential and commercial developments, to London where he had to opportunity to work on larger architectural projects. In London, Graham and his interior designer wife Stephanie kept their eyes open for the next up and coming areas to get onto the property ladder. In this episode, Graham walks us through how they identify sound investments and approach the projects they undertook as their lives evolved with children and busy careers.

After two successful renovation projects, Graham, Stephanie and their children moved back to Ireland where they had to get creative in finding a site for their forever home, which ended up being a former warehouse they demolished to build the award-nominated Coal Lane House in Cabra, Dublin 7. Tune in to hear how two industry experts get strategic about buying, selling, renovating and settling down.

 

Resources:

Coal Lane House: @coallanehouse

Henry J Lyons, Architects: https://henryjlyons.com/

In today's episode I have the pleasure of talking with homeowner and renovator Tereseanne O'Reilly, based in Tramore, Co Waterford. Self-employed couple Tereseanne and her husband Declan, owner of Evoke Kitchens, spontaneously bought this second property in 2019, just weeks before their wedding, with a view to renovating it pretty shortly after moving in. Since the pandemic hit, they only started their reno in the last few months. They are turning a 1990s 3 bed bungalow into a modern two-story. The house sits on an acre of land overlooking Tramore Bay in Co. Waterford, with views of Tramore itself, the beach and sand dunes and the Comeragh Mountains in the distance. Tune in to hear how industry pros approach and manage a renovation, and how you might be able to DIY parts of your project to save money and take control of your dream home.

 

Bio: Tereseanne O'Reilly is a homeowner and one half of @ourhouseandthesunset with her husband Declan, who also owns @evokekitchens. Professionally, Tereseanne is the Managing Director of a web design and brand strategy company called The Forest and a presenter, formerly a full-time radio DJ.

Resources & Professionals

Kitchen: Declan Furlong - https://www.evokekitchens.ie/

Architect: David Merrigan, MDP & Partners, Waterford - https://mdpandpartners.ie/david-merrigan/

 

Key moments & stats:

"[My husband Declan's] background is in building and construction, he has an engineering degree from DIT...it was the reason we could do it as whimsically as we did...he had the vision, the forethought, the skills to [take on the project]." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We were in a fortunate position with the market and having equity in our first house that had gone up in value, which I had bought by myself as a PAYE employee in a previous career." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"Very slow process buying a house in the middle of the summer, by the way!" - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We were sale agreed in June [2019], moved in in October. Our plan was to live in through the winter and then start the renovation process. And then the pandemic hit." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"It was going to be [profit from selling the first house] and savings along the way that were going to fund the renovation...and the caution we took early on [because of the uncertainty of the pandemic with Declan being self-employed] allowed us to live in the house for longer than we anticipated and get to know the house through different seasons, and how we lived and flowed through the house." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We didn't know if we were going to add a second storey or not until we lived in it for a while. We didn't have a plan, really." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We worked with David of MDP & Partners who was great...we applied for planning permission and had no objections...David was familiar with the region so well, he guided us on what he thought would work and be accepted." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"The first thing we did was we built our garage - it was a functional space we needed to facilitate us to move out of our [first] house." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"Space wasn't a dictating factor [in the final design]. We went by each space and how we wanted to use them." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We have four dogs - and the house had to accommodate for them." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"I was just thinking - how do I work? How do I live, how do I operate? What are my habits? And how do I design my living space to accommodate those good habits and try and get rid of the bad habits." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"The renovation cost stayed on budget because we worked with the facilities that were already provided [by the existing bungalow], like positioning bathrooms to existing plumbing, it's surprising how much that can save. Being clever like that." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"Even with the size of windows we originally wanted...custom sizes were going to cost so much more...so we went back to standard sizing and opening mechanisms to save." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"You know what we did? We went big then we scaled it right back to still work with the premade standard size materials - we don't have anything custom - we wanted to be creative to still have a luxurious feel without going custom." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"People have unrealistic expectations of 'custom' design. You can still have a premium and beautiful home without everything being made entirely from scratch for you - because the price difference is often not 50% more, but 10x more - simply because of economies of scale." - Tanya Neufeld

 

"Start big and then ask: what is it that you really need? What is it that you can really afford? And what are the luxuries - should things stretch - what are the first priority luxuries we want to add? And what the first luxuries we'd be willing to give up?" - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"We would've paid double - €200K more probably - if we hadn't done the labour ourselves." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

"You get home from a day of work and you'll be working [on your renovation project] until you go to bed, working out every thing that can be done, researching, getting in touch with suppliers...if the only thing you can give your project is time, you will save a lot." - Tereseanne O'Reilly

 

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Welcome to episode 6 of the Interiors Podcast.  Our guest industry expert in this episode is Charlotte Cropper, an International Colour Consultant at Lick Paint with a background in textile, homeware and graphic design.

We speak about the steps required to understand your style and colour needs and how to create the perfect palette for your home.

 

Key moments & stats:

"Ask yourself the question - what mood do you want to create in that space? How do you want to feel? Write down a list of key words of how you want to feel. Next, write down the things you do that help you feel that way. This is very individual. When do you use the space you're in? What time of day? Where is the room in your house? What direction does the room face in? What else is going on in that room? Look at paint holistically with the furniture, flooring and lighting that's going to go in a room." - Charlotte Cropper

 

"One of the biggest misconceptions is around the world colour - black, white, beige and grey are all colours. It doesn't mean we're going to paint your house in a rainbow. You have to define your particular style - someone's minimal is different to my minimal." - Charlotte Cropper

 

"We find white just as interesting as any other colour." - Charlotte Cropper

 

"What is it about an inspiration picture that you really like? Is it the combination of certain items, a mood, a colour, a texture?" - Charlotte Cropper

 

"I wait 6 months before committing to a colour. I might start small and buy some accessories in the colour and live with it to make sure it's not just a trend drawing me to it." - Charlotte Cropper

 

"Take samples shopping with you. And don't skip the moodboard." - Charlotte Cropper

 

"In a north-facing room, cooler colours will feel even colder, so consider warmer undertones. In south-facing rooms, the opposite applies, but rules are made to be broken. Small,

 

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Resources & Professionals

Paint: Lick Paint, https://www.lick.com/eu

 

Welcome to The Interiors Podcast.

Today I have the pleasure of talking with homeowner and renovator extraordinaire Lynn Ferrari, a Dublin native living her best life in Waterford City. Lynn discovered a passion for interiors in her first amateur renovation journey catalogued in her popular Instagram account, @myoldbrandnewhome, which then led her to flip her first property and invest in a new home during the pandemic with two young children in tow. Lynn takes us behind the scenes on how she managed this, and how to achieve a successful home renovation with a “less is more” approach that will be a great listen for all those looking to get creative on a tight budget.

 

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Resources & Professionals:

Contractor: Paul Walsh - http://www.paulwalshconstruction.com/

Flooring specialist: Jonathan at The Floor Gallery, Waterford - http://thefloorgallery.ie/

SEAI grant information: https://www.seai.ie/grants/

In this episode I speak with industry expert, interior designer and stylist, Kate Hobbins-Lockett, a fellow expat who pursued interiors as a second career. Kate is based in Cork City where she runs Interiors by Kate HL with a focus on clean, timeless spaces and the power of styling. Today we're going to explore the topic of trendy vs. classic styles when it comes to interiors and Kate walks us through her signature style formula for a timeless space. We also discuss how to diagnose and understand trends, and how to make them your own, or avoid them altogether if that's what you want!

 

About our guest:  interior designer Kate Hobbins-Lockett

Follow Kate on Instagram @interiorsbykatehl

And learn more at https://www.katehobbinslockett.com/

 

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Welcome to The Interiors Podcast. In this latest episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Alex Calder about self-building in Wicklow over 4+ years through the pandemic. Alex takes us through the timeline of the project, their biggest learnings, the experts that were invaluable and all the nitty gritty details of the planning permission process for a modernist home - from leveraging local politicians to re-building a bridge!

 

Connect with Alex:

@caldalex for family life in Wicklow

@ahouseinwicklow to follow her family’s self-build in real-time

@betweentwoears for all things horsey

 

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Resources & Professionals:

RIAI (Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland)

www.riai.ie/work-with-an-architect

https://www.riai.ie/whats-on/news/riai_building_construction_cost_guidelines_2019

Architect: John McLaughlin Architects - http://johnmclaughlin.ie

Contractor: Carew Construction 

Planning consultant: HPDC - http://www.hpdc.ie

Engineer: David Maher

QS: Murray and Gillespie - https://www.murrayandgillespie.ie

Energy consultant: Passivate https://www.passivate.ie

Self-build mortgage broker: Helen at Rockwell Financial https://rockwellfinancial.ie/

In this episode, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan shares her extensive journey of designing her kitchen, which has been three years in the making. 

She discusses the importance of functionality in kitchen design, the challenges faced during the process, and how design decisions were influenced by the architecture of her home.

Tanya emphasizes the need for a kitchen that not only serves its purpose but also complements the overall aesthetic of the house. She provides insights into the workflow of the kitchen, the significance of the kitchen triangle, and the creative solutions she implemented to maximize space and storage.

Takeaways

• The kitchen is often the most significant investment in a home
• Functionality should be prioritized over aesthetics in kitchen design
• Personal preferences play a crucial role in kitchen decisions
• Iterative design processes lead to better outcomes
• The kitchen triangle is essential for efficient workflow
• Storage solutions should be cleverly integrated into the design.
• A kitchen should be designed to blend with the architecture of the home.
• Consider the orientation of rooms when designing a kitchen.
• Using existing rooms creatively can eliminate the need for extensions.

Timestamps

00:00 The Kitchen Design Journey
09:47 Creating a Functional Space
19:52 Final Design Considerations

In today's episode I am thrilled to interview Stephanie O'Sullivan Stephanie is also the proud owner and builder of Coal Lane House, which you might know from RTE's show, Super Small Spaces with Dermot Bannon.   With over 20 years in the design industry, working in architectural firms in London and Dublin, Stephanie has a wealth of knowledge and experience. We chatted about the role of the interior designer and also when is the right time to hire and so much more.  

 

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Stephanie O’Sullivan at SOSullivan Interiors - Instagram @theinformed creative @sosullivaninteriors 

Interior design is not only a luxury but an necessity in a time where construction and price per square metre is out of reach for many people who have just bought the most expensive thing they will ever buy. Bringing down internal walls, changing windows, converting attics and adding small extensions in transformers space that otherwise leaves much to be desired   On this podcast I will bring you industry experts that will help you make the best decisions when it comes to choosing a home, buying a property, And understanding how much time and energy are going to go into making the changes you want to make it yours. However this podcast is not just for the small Dublin City starter home, We will also visit best practices of interior design and talk with craftspeople so that you know how to invest in the best joinery, furniture and soft furnishings to elevate your space and make it a long-term investment.  

In between our industry expert episodes, we will bring on homeowners who have successfully purchased and renovated homes, So you can understand a little bit of the behind-the-scenes of how it works, from a self build mortgage to flipping your first property as your lifestyle changes.

 

So to give you a bit of an idea of the three main problems as I see in the industry that we will tackle in this podcast are:

1. Money

2. Practicality and logistics

3. Inspiration and style 

 

We will always be on the lookout for high-quality craft people and industry experts from QS to a joiner, a painter to build, so if you have people you want to recommend please don’t hesitate to reach out so we can interview them on the podcast. We are also always looking to talk to homeowners with property buying, building, renovating, redesigning experience who are willing to go behind the scenes and share the nitty-gritty.

In between our industry expert episodes, we will bring on homeowners who have successfully purchased and renovated homes, So you can understand a little bit of the behind-the-scenes of how it works, from a self build mortgage to flipping your first property as your lifestyle changes.

So to give you a bit of an idea of the three main problem is I see in the industry that we will tackle in this podcast are:

1. Money

2. Practicality and logistics

3. Inspiration and style 

We will always be on the lookout for high-quality craft people and industry experts from QS to a joiner, a painter to build, so if you have people you want to recommend please don’t hesitate to reach out so we can interview them on the podcast. We are also always looking to talk to homeowners with property buying, building, renovating, redesigning experience who are willing to go behind the scenes and share the nitty-gritty.

 

Follow the podcast on Instagram @theinteriorspodcast 

Welcome to the Interiors Podcast, Ireland's first show aimed at empowering and educating homeowners and buyers, present and future, to make the most of their spaces.  

I'm your host, Tanya Neufeld, and I left a career in ad agencies and Facebook to run my own business. As I pivoted careers to interior design and bought my first home in Dublin, I realised how much confusion and frustration is out there, and how much potential there is to make your home of your dreams a reality and a long-term investment - which it SHOULD be as the biggest purchase of your life.

 

The mission of this podcast is to elevate YOUR property owning and buying experience in Ireland, arming you with the inspiration, the know-how and practical advice to create a home that lights you up and changes your life.

 

In each episode, I will cover topics ranging from self-building to choosing the right flooring for your house, extensions and paint colours. I will bring you behind the scenes with industry experts and homeowners to give you practical advice and the motivation to create and elevate your spaces.

 

 

In this episode, Lauren Stonnell, CEO of Chase Erwin, discusses the luxury fabric industry, her journey from working in interiors in New Zealand to leading a prominent English fabric house, and the importance of quality materials in interior design.   She emphasizes the significance of understanding fabric performance, the trends in upholstery and drapery, and how layering fabrics can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space.   Lauren also shares insights on working with interior designers, the shift towards sustainable choices, and the versatility of fabrics in creating personalized interiors.     Takeaways

• Chase Erwin is a luxury fabric house, founded 40 years ago
• Quality fabrics can last for decades, making them a sustainable choice
• Understanding fabric performance is crucial for interior design
• Layering fabrics adds depth and sophistication to spaces
• Trends are shifting towards multicolored yarns and warmer tones
• Direct-to-consumer offerings include curated cushion collections
• Investing in a designer can lead to a cohesive interior scheme
• Natural materials are essential for creating timeless designs
• The Chelsea Design Center is a key location for exploring luxury fabrics

  Sound Bites

• "Sheers can soften modern spaces."
• "Fabrics can express your personality."
• "Invest in quality that lasts 20 years."

  Chapters 00:00Introduction to Chase Erwin 03:18Lauren's Journey to CEO 05:16Understanding Luxury Fabrics 08:57The Importance of Material Selection 11:22Trends in Upholstery and Drapery 15:04Layering Fabrics for Aesthetic Appeal 19:44The Versatility of Fabric in Design 24:17Direct-to-Consumer Offerings 29:34Shifts in Consumer Preferences 33:14Working with Interior Designers 38:15Sustainable Investment in Fabrics 42:22Final Thoughts on Fabric and Design