After visiting Ireland on numerous painting holidays, Sue and her husband Mark decided to take the plunge and buy a traditional cottage with an inspiring coastal setting, and sweeping views of the Iveragh Peninsula.
Back in 2010 Sue came from the States to Ireland with a group of artists to paint and after renting a local artist’s cottage she was totally charmed by it and the surrounding area. ‘Everywhere I looked inside and out, I saw a painting. So from that point I started painting Irish landscapes and interiors, and back in the States these paintings proved to be really popular, so I knew that a few more trips to Ireland would be on the cards,’ says Sue.
Sue planned a second trip and Mark came with her to see the landscape she was so inspired by. He also loved it and on their next trip they decided they really wanted to buy a place. ‘I had always been charmed by this cottage and had driven past it many times in order to paint, so when I saw it was up for sale I knew it was meant to be,’ explains Sue.
The couple completed the sale in 2013, when buyers were ‘as rare as hen’s teeth’ according to their solicitor, and having only spent twenty minutes inside the cottage they admit they were a little nervous about their decision to buy and did have a few sleepless nights over it. Despite this they embraced the decision and with great enthusiasm they booked a container to bring over their things, scouring the States for items that would suit the property. ‘I went all over New England to my favourite antique shops. I found the table and chairs in Essex MA. They were made in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in the 1920s and set the tone for the ‘American Gothic’ style I tend to gravitate towards,’ says Sue.
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Ireland's Homes Interiors & Living Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Ireland's Homes Interiors & Living Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Look up!
This issue our gardening expert Conrad McCormick focuses on climbing plants.
#madeinireland
Support local and add a little artistry and originality into your home with this month's pick of Irish brands and makers.
My Home: Dundalk
Ceramicist Sarah McKenna tells us more about the place she calls home.
Ciao Sicily
This month Marty O'Neill takes us to the historic and picturesque island of Sicily.
Contemporary Class
This Belfast home needed a contemporary kitchen scheme that was functional, durable and made best use of the existing space.
Total Transformation
A complete renovation of this period-style home in Co. Down allowed the owners to create the kitchen they had always wanted.
A Family Connection
Embracing biophilic design combined with bold colour gives this home a unique look that’s easy on the eye and functions perfectly for a busy family of four.
AWARD WINNING KITCHENS
Direct Wholesale Kitchens has just been named as Kitchen Supplier of the Year at the Midlands 103 Customer Service Awards for the fourth year running. We take a closer look at the company’s winning ways and discover the key to its success.
Meeting The Brief
This large home in Holywood, Co. Down was given the all-star treatment thanks to design expert Kunal Trehan.
Lakeside Retreat
Mairead and John’s summer home on Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire draws inspiration from its stunning unspoilt surroundings, with natural materials and textures enhancing its effortlessly cool New England vibe.