Hugh Wallace’s Home Renovation Journey
Our Brand Ambassador, architect, and Home of the Year judge, Hugh Wallace, is currently renovating and retrofitting his home with his husband, Martin. Having previously lived in Ranelagh, Hugh mentions how they felt they were ‘out in the sticks’.
The house was purchased two years ago. They received planning permission to make significant alterations, including adding a new extension to the rear, with the roof just about to go on. Despite some setbacks, they anticipate moving in by Christmas.
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Condition of the House When They Bought It
Hugh explains that the house was fire-damaged, having suffered two fires, leaving them with a blank canvas internally. They encountered numerous unexpected surprises, including worse conditions than anticipated. This led to the need to remove many walls, adding time and cost to the project. Initially, they hoped to be settled in a year ago, but Hugh notes that time has flown by.
Retrofitting
Hugh’s renovation aims to transform the derelict end-of-terrace house, built in 1890, into a super-insulated home powered by an air-source heat pump. The house was originally constructed from stone with no insulation, single-glazed windows, and leaky suspended floors, with significant heat loss.
Electric Ireland Superhomes is collaborating with Hugh and his construction team throughout the entire process, starting with retrofit design. The goal is to ensure the home is not only warm and efficient but also qualifies for the enhanced grants available through the SEAI One Stop Shop programme. The final result will be a comfortable, low-carbon home with a BER rating of B1, featuring state-of-the-art ventilation and fit for 21st-century living.
Style & Decisions
Hugh enjoys colour, texture, wallpaper, and lots of artwork, while Martin prefers off-whites and, as Hugh jokingly puts it, “dare I even say the word grey.” Hugh acknowledges that the decision-making process has been challenging and overwhelming due to the numerous choices to be made so appreciates the One Stop Shop support from Electric Ireland Superhomes.
Hugh and Martin are chomping at the bit to move in, with Hugh expecting the project to be completed by Christmas.
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