RTE viewers got their first look at the 2023 ‘Home of the Year’ contenders and most agreed with the winner of this week's three options.
The judges returned and the homes were open for viewing as the public jumped at the chance to have their say online during the show.
This year the judges making the tough decisions are, architect and founding partner of Douglas Wallace Consultants, Hugh Wallace, award-winning architect Amanda Bone and award-winning interior designer Sara Cosgrove.
The panel headed for Dublin, Armagh, and Meath this week to check out three beautiful properties.
First off in Dublin was a look inside a quirky 1950s house in the suburbs of Dublin. The couple, Ciara McMahon and Richie Hannify said they’re aware their home isn't for everyone - but despite this, the judges were very taken with the 'quirky' renovation project.
“It’s the perfect blend between practicality and prettiness," said Sara as they roamed through the stunning pantry, followed by a red-tiled 'Marrakech-inspired’ bathroom and onto the reading nook.
Despite certain design aspects not appealing to Amanda's tastes, all three judges gave the home nine marks.
They then headed off to Northern Ireland to view a very interestingly restored rural cottage. As they walked from room to room, Wallace said: “I’ve walked from a traditional cottage to a traditional American dream. I even have a wagon wheel”.
Finally, the three judges made their way to Co. Meath, where they visited a unique house with a difference.
The barn-like structure had been re-designed in line with the landscape, and although the judges were very approving of it, Cosgrove couldn’t come to terms with the work desk in the bedroom and said: “I’d struggle to relax here”.
Only in the final minutes of the show did the judges reveal the tallies of their scores for each home. Ultimately, Dublin took the crown this week meaning Ciara and Richie are one step closer to the 2023 title - and it seems most viewers were in agreement.
One content fan of the show took to Twitter and wrote: “Happy with the winner! (Well as long as it wasn't the barn.) #homeoftheyear”.
Among the people flocking to comment on the judge's choice, one person commented: “Best house won to be fair #HomeOfTheYear,” while another wrote: “Definitely home 1. #homeoftheyear,” followed by a fourth comment which read: “Home 1 for me #homeoftheyear.”
You can watch the show every Tuesday and join the judging panel of Hugh, Amanda, and Sara as they explore 21 beautiful homes across Ireland.
The series will feature homes in Cork, Mayo, Kilkenny, Dublin, Down, Wicklow, Meath, Antrim, Galway, Armagh, Derry, and Kildare.
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