Finding her cottage hard to sell, architect Patti O’Neill took a step back and developed the Healthy Flowing Homes approach which transformed the desirability of her home.
Patti’s cottage was part of a single storey terrace from the 1840s and several modifications had been made over the years which created a confused layout. In the 1950s or 60s a kitchen was added to the front, turning the entrance around through the gardens. In the 1980s the floor was lowered and the second floor was added with two bedrooms and a bathroom and toilet, now directly overhead, as you entered the home causing further discomfort in the house.
When Patti first bought the house she undertook a comprehensive conservation renovation which involved removing the cement from the exterior and some interior walls and repairing with lime render. She also rearranged the ground floor to create two living spaces facing the garden to the south. Nine years on, she made a decision to put her house on the market.
‘When I went to sell it there were no offers for the first two years. So I took a step back to understand what someone entering the property for the first time was experiencing. I was so used to living here that when I stood back I was quite shocked to see that the first impressions of entering the house were all wrong – it caused confusion and was unsettling.’ says Patti.
This story is from the May 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 May 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.