The Story
Hugh Wallace, architect, broadcaster and Electric Ireland Superhomes brand ambassador, believed deeply in the importance of restoring and future‑proofing older homes. Together with Hugh’s husband, Martin, he purchased this end‑of‑terrace Dublin property, a house more than 150 years old, knowing from the outset that it would be a demanding but rewarding project.
At the time of purchase, the house was little more than a shell. It was cold, draughty and damp, with the inefficiencies typical of a building constructed long before modern standards of comfort and energy performance. Yet Hugh was energised by the challenge. As an architect with a passion for restoration, he could see beyond the issues to the potential of what the house could become.
With Martin’s full permission, Electric Ireland Superhomes is proud to share this case study, celebrating Hugh’s legacy, personality and genuine commitment to sustainable homes. Hugh would have wanted people to see the real story, the challenges, the learning curve, the ups and downs, and the moments of humour along the way, as proof that even the oldest homes can be sensitively transformed for modern living.
The Measures
A detailed assessment revealed the scale of the challenge ahead. The home initially carried a BER rating of G, reflecting its age and condition. The ambition for the project was to achieve an A2 BER rating, while respecting the character of the original structure.
Working collaboratively over time, the following retrofit measures were implemented:
- Internal Wall Insulation
- Floor Insulation
- High‑performance Windows and Doors
- Airtightness works
- Heat Pump system
- Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR)
Each measure played a vital role in improving comfort, efficiency and indoor air quality, while ensuring the home would perform to a modern standard.
The Process
This was never a “quick win” retrofit. The age of the property presented significant technical challenges, including an old structural fabric and the requirement for the gable wall to be taken down and rebuilt as part of the works.
Electric Ireland Superhomes worked closely with Hugh and Martin over a four‑year period, supporting a carefully considered and evolving retrofit journey. Hugh’s architectural expertise and curiosity shaped many decisions, and the process reflected his belief that good restoration takes time, thought and collaboration.
Rather than smoothing over the complexity, this project embraced it, showing what is possible when expertise, patience and a shared commitment to sustainability come together under the One Stop Shop model.
The Results
The transformation of the house has been profound. What once was cold, damp and inefficient is now a comfortable, energy‑efficient home, achieving its target A2 BER rating, an exceptional outcome for a property of this age.
The combination of insulation, airtightness, modern heating and ventilation, and high‑quality windows and doors has resolved longstanding comfort issues and created a healthier living environment. The home now reflects the values Hugh believed in so strongly: respect for heritage, intelligent design, and a commitment to a more sustainable future.
This project stands as a fitting tribute to Hugh’s passion for architecture and restoration, and as inspiration for homeowners considering what is truly possible, even in Ireland’s oldest housing stock.
Project Partners
This retrofit was delivered with the support of trusted industry partners:
- Mitsubishi Electric – Heat pump supplied and fitted; ventilation system supplied
- Rationel – Windows and doors supplied and fitted
- Clean Energy Ireland – Ventilation system installed
Start Your Retrofit Journey
If you’re wondering how to begin your own retrofit journey, Electric Ireland Superhomes can guide you every step of the way.
Fill out our form to speak with one of our retrofit advisors and take the first step towards a warmer, healthier and more energy‑efficient home.