Build & Renovate Special Edition by renovateyourhome

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Build

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Renovate

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of the

The Star SPONSORS

County

Down

Richard Rodgers

www.buildandrenovate.ie scandinavian sliding wardrobe design

Front Cove r Im a ge : A n d rew Va ugh a n o f B l a c k s t o n e Me d i a / P h o t o g r a p hy

Pa g e 4

Price: €5.95

info@jackietracey.com 087 980 9539 www.jackietracey.com

Premier Timberframe Homes are a family-run Timberframe company based in Co. Kildare. We supply and ﬁt Timberframe Homes anywhere in Ireland. We use A-rated Windows and Doors and have a range of wall and roof cladding systems to complete a house shell package. We can also Flatpack Internationally..!!

premiertimberframehomes@gmail.com 087 434 3145 www.premiertimberframehomes.ie

There has been

no stopping us!

In conversation with David Mc Words: Emer Kelly

remier Timberframe Homes are a family run timberframe company based in County Kildare. They supply and fit timberframe houses anywhere in Ireland.

Premier Timberframe Homes have a range of different wall and roof cladding systems to complete a house shell package or they can leave it ready for the customer to finish the external leaf in block or render. Premier Timberframe Homes are competitive and realistic about the house pricing for their clients. They understand that your new home is the biggest investment you are likely to make and just how much this means to you. From providing you with a structure to fit your blue print to creating a complete enclosing shell package that can be shipped to your home site, Premier Timberframe Homes are

Images: Webpress

there to help you though it. They will assist you through the design process to identify a floor plan that meets your lifestyle needs vision and budget. Having built numerous timber frame homes, this company have several options of floor plans that are readily accessible. These plans can be modified to fit your site or taken as is to give a style and construction that has already has been proven successful. Premier Timberframe Homes builds beautiful, healthy, well engineered buildings using the worlds most durable and environmentally friendly building material, timber. Timber framing is a craft. Their passion is for these magnificent homes, the lives they inspire and the replace the special feeling every time that you walk through the door of your own timber frame home.

“I find younger people especially those who have ventured abroad and witnessed how other people live so they are leaning towards timber frame construction because they know benefits of it and they know the living benefits of a house like this,’’ added Mr McManus. “These units will last for more than 60 years with a bit of maintenance along the way,’’ he enthused. As to the future of Premier Timber Frame Homes? We’re actually targeting America and Canada with our flat pack kits as people are buying them every day over there as it is the norm. Since the first lockdown was lifted, we have been out the door even though we’re always busy but there has been a lot more interest and people were purchasing over the last number of months. I’m positive about the future and looking at the brighter side of things!’’ concluded David McManus.

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These units will last for more than 60 years.

“We set up the business in 2017 and I have a lot of experience between Ireland, the UK and Australia when it comes to erecting timber frame housing and that is why I started manufacturing and there has been no stopping us since then. We supply and erect timber frame housing across Ireland and we supply internationally and we can ship a flat pack anywhere in the world,’’ said David McManus.

“We specialise in wall and roof cladding so we can supply a house shell package which we can finish with wall and roof cladding systems and the customer then customises it themselves on the interior.

Letterfrom

Editor

the

i there and a very warm welcome to the latest edition of Build & Renovate!We hope everyone is keeping well and beginning to enjoy the fabulous weather that is coming our way. It’s unbelievable to think that in a matter of week’s we’re going to be in the summer months! I, for one certainly can’t begin to believe how quickly this year is going. On the cover, we feature the magnificent home of Richard Rodgers in County Down. The property dates back to the 1800’s and it was originally a schoolhouse which has become a home after it was sympathetically restored and extended to achieve its maximum potential. Each room has been carefully created with colour and textures to complement the integrity of the building. The layout of the house makes the most of the building’s space with bedrooms, bathrooms and an office located on the ground floor and the rest of the main living space located on the floor above.

In This Issue Star of the County Down 6 The The house is 200 years old with a six year old extension!

future of Rointe is hot!! 12 The Our heating solutions are easy to install. comes DIY SOS 16 Here In conversation with RTÉ presenter Baz Ashmawy

to Improve in Kildare 24 Room A beautiful renovation in Athgarvan SALES DIRECTOR

Jason O Neill: jason@buildandrenovate.ie

EDITOR

Emer Kelly: editor@buildandrenovate.ie

CONTACT

info@ajmediagroup.ie

In Cork, we feature the amazing home of Rachel and Robert Hobbs. The Hobbs snapped up a 200 year old farmhouse just outside of Ballincollig. They purchased their family home in 2017 and lived in a mobile home with their three children on site whilst transforming the house into the fabulous home it is today. Everything needed to be upgraded and reconfigured to make it suitable for the young couple and their children Indie, Rocco and Forrest. Paul Moore of McCann Moore Architects discusses a modern extension to a 1920’s house in Belfast. “The brief was tweaked a little but the essence of what we first looked at was what was built,’’ explained Mr Moore. Last but by no means least, we return to Cork for the final property in this edition. This project is about how a Cork couple undertook a vast modernisation of the dormer house where they have lived for almost 30 years. The modernisation included the use of modern architectural methods such as zinc cladding and the windows have been cleverly planned to bring in as much light as possible and the house has clever detail throughout. We also feature interviews with companies including Newcastle Blinds, Carn Build & Design Ltd, Copperfish Lighting Company, Rointe, Lavender Landscaping and The Attic Company. In the words of the phenomenal band that was The Beatles; “Here comes the sun do,do,do, here comes the sun and I say it’s alright...” Until the next time, stay safe and continue reading Build & Renovate!

conversation with Paul Moore 34 In I Loved the result in this Belfast Beauty conversation with Peter Finn 44 In Our Mental & Physical Wellbeing Hobbs talks to us 46 Rachel Renovate a 200 year old farmhouse & Styling a Property 60 Updating In conversation with Kerry Hiddleston DESIGN

André Clarke: design@buildandrenovate.ie

ADDRESS

Mill Road, Mornington, Co Meath, ©AJ Media Limited 2020

The Star of the County Down

IN KILDARE The future of Rointe is hot!! 12 IMPROVE

Here comes DIY SOS

Room to Improve in Kildare

In conversation with Paul Moore

“We didn’t want to live out in the countryside or to be isolated but we also didn’t want to be on the road night and day with the kids either. There is also a local link Peter Finn ontoOur Mental bus that they will be able use when they get&that bit 44 Physical Wellbeing older. The house is a split level bungalow and in my opinion it is an attractive house,’’ added Mrs Conlon. As to any advice Nessa would give to anyone who is about to embark on a renovation project? “I definitely think people are naïve when it comes to the cost of renovating. When you are doing a project like this (our house) you want to do it properly and you want to finish it, you don’t want to finish it off six months later and luckily we were in the financial position that we could do that through hard work and saving really hard.

Rachel Hobbs on Renovating an old Farmhouse

“The biggest thing to understand is that you are going to spend more than you think you are going to spend. It is clients expectations that drive the budget and that In conversation with is so true. To get good quality stuff (appliances, flooring, 60 Ker ry Hiddleston kitchen etc), you will pay for it. Everyone that worked on the project was fantastic,’’ concluded Nessa Conlon.

of the

The star County Down Richard Rodgers speaks to Build & Renovate about his fabulous home Words: Emer Kelly Images: Andrew Vaughan of Blackstone Media/Photography

nterior Designer Richard Rodgers of Rodrick Design undertook the project of transforming a stunning country property located in the heart of County Down drumlins.

The property dates back to the 1800’s and it was originally a schoolhouse which has become a home after it was sympathetically restored and extended to achieve its maximum potential. Each room has been carefully created with colour and textures to complement the integrity of the building. The layout of the house makes the most of the building’s space with bedrooms, bathrooms and an office located on the ground floor and the rest of the main living space located on the floor above. “The house was a shell when I bought it. The house was bought and developed by a builder and then the property crash happened and the house was dormant for a number of years. I’ve always dreamt of living somewhere like this and I’m delighted that I was able to bring the house back to life as it has had so many purposes over the years,’’ said Richard Rodgers. “Straight away I could see the potential for the upstairs living area. It’s not a good room, it is a space that is used! When it came to working on this house, I wouldn’t say that it wasn’t

stressful but I didn’t rush into anything when it came to the house. For the first eight months, we had bare concrete floors as I knew I wanted something that would complement the building. “I really tried to stick to the traditional elements whilst trying to tie in some modern furniture. The house has a lot of character to it,’’ enthused Mr Rodgers. Rodrick Design Ltd is a boutique Interior Design consultancy for residential and commercial projects. Established in 2015 by Mr Rodgers, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to each project. His personal care and attention to detail are key to each design project, creating a timeless style that combines contemporary and traditional elements. At Rodrick Design, their vision is to transform your surroundings with a design approach that highlights purpose, distinction and beauty throughout an all-encompassing design experience.

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The house is 200 years old with a six year old extension!

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The house is lived in, it isn’t a showhouse.

Having worked extensively on design projects throughout the world from Malaysia to the Far East, Rodrick Design’s roots are firmly based in its County Down studio working with more than 100 suppliers, the very latest collections allows them to create that unique look that their clients deserve. Rodrick Design offers a range of services from bespoke curtain and roman blind making to personally designed handmade rugs. They work closely with local crafts people producing everything from bespoke handmade furniture to full residential and commercial fit outs. Richard’s signature classic contemporary designs complement every architectural style with a strong identity that draws inspiration from the location, building vernacular and the client’s requirements, interests and lifestyle. Bespoke design is integral to their approach. Every facet of a project can be custom made to exacting specifications ensuring that the clients’ needs are realised with unwavering creative expression with the very finest quality assured in each project.

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I’ve always dreamt of living in a house like this.

“Other than the living room by the cosy stove, my other favourite space would be the bathroom as it is a really nice space to be in and especially with the summer approaching I really love the garden and being outside working on it.” In terms of advice Mr Rodgers would give anyone who may be about to embark on a similar project to his home? “I think it is about finding really good local tradespeople who know how to work with old buildings as well as how to treat them. It isn’t like a modern house, you really have to know what you are doing with an old house like this and if you get the wrong tradesperson then they can do a lot of damage to your property. “I wanted every space in the house to be used and the house is lived in, it isn’t a showhouse. The layout of the house is very unusual but I love it! Having lived in the house for a few years upon reflection I wouldn’t change anything majorly other than small things such as the placement of light switches. I didn’t rush into anything when it came to the house. Where the extension is, I would love to have a balcony off that. The house is 200 years old with a six year old extension which works as the sunroom,’’ he enthused.

“Don’t rush into any decisions and try to mark out the space for your furniture such as your bed or your sofa and key pieces so then you can figure out the layout of each room as well as figuring out where the sun comes in, how best to use the space and also take lighting into consideration as well. “Try and live in your house for a while before you make any big decisions. Of course you have to pick your kitchen and bathroom but if you can get a feel for it, live in your house for a while! “This is my forever home hence why I took my time doing the work on it whilst also collecting some lovely key pieces,’’ concluded Richard Rodgers.

CONTACT LIST INTERIOR DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY

P: 0044-7816820085 W: www.rodrickdesign.com E: info@rodrickdesign.com

P: 0044-2892639942 W: www.blackstonemedia.co.uk E: info@blackstonemedia.co.uk

Richard Rodgers, Rodrick Design

Andrew Vaughan, Blackstone Media/Photography

I’ve always had an interest in houses,

interiors &colours. Jackie Tracey talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

ackie Tracey Interiors is a full service residential design studio assisting clients with a wide range of design challenges including a selection of architectural details and finishes as well as collaborations with Architects and building contractors. Jackie Tracey Interiors bring together a team of professionals to suit the design requirements and individuality of each project. They source all internal finishes, fixtures and fittings, furniture, fabrics, accessories and custom pieces curated especially for your unique living space. Their mission is to create beautiful functional spaces to be lived in and adored by their clients. From large scale development projects to a simple, quick makeover, the design team at Jackie Tracey Interiors will expertly reflect your personal style and taste. Jackie Tracey Interiors specialises in luxury residential interiors for both private clients and developers. Their passion for creating beautiful interiors combined with their professional approach ensures their projects are seamlessly designed and managed from concept through to completion. Tailored to their client’s requirements and lifestyle, their designs encompass inspiring aesthetics and practical functionality. Bringing together a team of skilled contractors and Architects, combined with an extensive network of reputable suppliers, the team have the expertise to create a unique space tailored to the individual client, environment and budget. Ms Tracey’s eye for good design and her attention to detail is evident in each and every project she collaborates on. She likes to draw inspiration from the surrounding environment so that there is a connection to the outside. Through choice of colour and material, this creates a harmonious flow from the outside in and from room to room. Spaces feel connected, there is some sense of ease and a natural flow to her designs. Schemes appear to come together effortlessly. Her design experience together with her background in finance and her extensive experience in residential fit out project management will ensure that all aspects of your project will be managed seamlessly from concept through to completion. Jackie Tracey Interiors services include; a professional consultation to discuss the brief, inspirational mood-boards, a presentation of the design scheme including imagery and materials, consultancy only packages, project management, complete renovation including full interior architecture and design services, bespoke joinery, budgeting and estimating,

procurement and administration, delivery and installation as well as turn key styling. “For as long as I can remember I’ve always had an interest in houses, interiors and colours. I can remember as a child buying paint tester pots with my pocket money and decorating the entire shed! People would always say that I had a very good eye and I suppose it grew from there. To this day, I still get such enjoyment and pleasure from seeing colours and textures come together as well as how lighting impacts a space and how things change when you put them together. I love seeing how much pleasure my work brings to my clients as well,’’ said Jackie Tracey. “I’m currently working on a scheme of 25 apartments as well as doing some design work behind the scenes. I’m also doing online consultancies through Zoom. The business is going well and it’s great that I’m as busy as I am. “Home offices are huge at the moment but if I was to give you one word to describe current trends it would be ‘comfort.’ People have spent and continue to spend so much time in their homes so they just want to be comfortable and there is a lot more colour starting to come through. I’m seeing a lot more layering going on rather than the minimalist look. People want their personal things around them and on in display in their homes. It is about their homes being a reflection of themselves,’’ added Ms Tracey. “Homes are becoming more of a reflection of the people that live in them rather than imitation magazine covers and there is a more personal touch to them instead of the minimalist look.”

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Homes are becoming more of a reflection of the people that live in them. As to future trends? “There is a lot of green coming through and it is about getting back to basics and nature. Green is a lovely colour to work with as you are bringing the outside in; green kitchens are here to stay and I would say the darker the kitchen the better. Retro styling and nostalgic themes are going to be big. Plush upholstered headboards are also going to be something to watch for. There is also definitely a lot more pattern and texture coming through,” she enthused. In terms of what the future holds for Jackie Tracey Interiors? “Things are great at the moment so long may that continue. I would like to continue doing more of the same but I especially enjoy working on the individual projects as there is more scope for creativity. I really enjoy working on an entire house or a big renovation project as I can really get my teeth into it, it is more challenging and there is a lot more scope. I’m very lucky to love what I do as well as being so busy so long may it continue,’’ concluded Jackie Tracey.

info@jackietracey.com 087 980 9539 www.jackietracey.com

The future of

Rointe

is hot!

CONTACT YOUR NEAREST IRISH WHOLESALER OR CALL US ON 01 553 0523 www.rointe.ie

@rointe_ireland

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Our heating solutions are easy to install.

In conversation with Antonio Dengra CEO Rointe Words: Emer Kelly

Images: Hiddleston Interiors

hether it’s heating options for your home, office, hotel or flat, Rointe provides technologically advanced, energy-efficient electric heating systems that create comfortable properties without excessive consumption or unnecessary costs.

They offer a wide range of electric heating options including radiators, towel rails, underfloor heating and their latest unvented domestic electric hot water solutions. With more than 30 years of experience, Rointe is guided by their commitment to quality and easy installation that gives you complete control over consumption and costs from your smartphone anytime, anywhere. Heating is not just an essential item in a home, it provides comfort and well-being, as well as warmth. That’s why they developed advanced electric heating systems that they could install into their own homes. Rointe works hard to create perfect solutions capable of providing maximum comfort and efficiency that the whole family can enjoy. With installations across Europe, you can trust them to keep you warm and cosy. Discover a new concept of efficient electric heating today with Rointe and find the right solution for your needs! “We are a professional company that specialises in energy efficient electric heating. We began over 30 years ago in 1985, because we recognised the need for an electric (or dry) heating system without pipes or maintenance,’’ said Rointe CEO, Antonio Dengra. “Our company mission is to replace old-fashioned gas heating products with technologically advanced solutions that our customers can rely on. I took over the business in 2005. I had a vision for expansion and continuous investment in Research & Development. Now we create cutting edge solutions that everyone can own, so investment in our low consumption technologies is paramount to our success. Our headquarters are based in Murcia, Spain. We have grown so much in the last few years and now operate in nine countries across Europe with more still to come. We produce more than 400,000 products each year and only source the highest quality components. We expanded our product portfolio recently to include new water heaters and a special finishes collection called DESIGNLINE,’’ added Mr Dengra. “We regularly work with property investors, offices, universities and the hospitality sector like hotels. They come to us because they need professional and efficient heating systems from experts in the field, no job is too big or small for us! Our heating solutions are easy to install. This gives business owners the option to replace old and inefficient products with minimal disruption. They also only want heating solutions that are stylish, modern and convenient which is what Rointe brings to the table,’’ he enthused.

CONTACT YOUR NEAREST IRISH WHOLESALER OR CALL US ON 01 553 0523 www.rointe.ie

“In the modern era, we guarantee that you can have complete control over our products from any smartphone. This is so important as it gives you the option to adjust temperatures and lock the heating remotely so other users cannot interfere. With Rointe heating, it can be cheaper to install and last up to 50% longer than the average gas system.

“We have also sold to new markets across Europe. France, Sweden & Russia are some of our newest ventures with great response. The market has changed rapidly and so has the user’s mentality. A few years ago, they were looking for cheap, easily available products but now they realise they need a reliable and valuable product that can be connected and controlled smartly,’’ Antonio explained.

As our heating solutions use only electricity, the biggest factor is cost! Our products are 100% efficient at the point of use so you can be sure that the money spent on heating is used as efficiently as possible, a wise investment! Rointe is a very well structured and flexible company, ready to adapt and make changes that appear in the market.

What does the future look like for Rointe? The next five years are very important for us as a business. We want to build on our success and be the number one business in the heating market in Europe. In order to do this, we will focus on Research & Development to meet the needs of our customers.

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The heating market moves very quickly.

Our focus is to ensure we give customers the advice, support and expertise that they need to make the right heating choice for their home or business. We employ more than 200 people across Europe and have an extensive network of distributors and installers. We are committed to great customer service and our employees work hard to maximise this. We offer a 360* service starting with our sales managers. They provide advice and on-site support along with generating leads. Our after sales care provides advanced diagnostics should any issue arise,’’ imparted Antonio. “We also ensure our customers have lengthy guarantees in case of faults so that they have peace of mind when choosing a Rointe heating product. In fact, we are one of the only brands in the market to include a 10 year guarantee on electric radiators. Our team has a wide range of skills.

Technology is always evolving. The world is becoming more aware of energy usage and how it affects the environment. Therefore, we must continually evaluate and improve to ensure our customers get the lowest consumption possible from their Rointe products,’’ said Antonio. “We also want to expand our market share. It’s growing year on year and we are very competitive against some of the more well-known brands. Customers choose Rointe because they enjoy the personal service we can give them and the quality of our products. We are also expanding our product portfolio even further over the next few years. These are exciting times for us, and we want to make sure we offer a wide range of diverse elec-

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We also want to expand our market share.

We have technicians, production operatives, sales representatives and a Research & Development department alongside the Marketing & Finance teams. We also have a specialised department dedicated to our app and e-life technology. They are all highly talented, hardworking and form an intricate part of this company,’’ he explained. As to how the business has changed in the last few years? “The heating market moves very quickly, and we’re known to adapt to any new change extremely well. Over the last five years, we have expanded our product portfolio to include the D series range and underfloor heating. To think when we started over 30 years ago, we only had one radiator and now we have a huge product offering that caters to everyone.

tric heating products that everyone can experience and own. “The Irish market is extremely important for us and generates many sales. We have strong plans to expand here over the next few years, and that will start with the opening of a new distribution centre in Dublin to support our Irish customers. We felt this was a key investment in our Irish logistics network in order to meet local customers’ growing needs.

The success of our heating systems is down to the correct sizing of the product. Our projects team provide a free technical CONTACT YOUR NEAREST IRISH OR CALL US ON 01 553 0523 study on every installation that takes into account the size of WHOLESALER the room, the number of elements required and climatic zone. This www.rointe.ie It means we can offer a better service by providing new day ensures the customer has the correct product and size installed delivery, along with click and collect options, showing that we along with the most balanced consumption,’’ can adapt to changes in shopping habits,’’ continued Mr Dengra. concluded Antonio Dengra.

@rointe_ireland

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CONTACT YOUR NEAREST IRISH WHOLESALER OR CALL US ON 01 553 0523 www.rointe.ie

Forget DIY, here comes

Baz & DIY SOS In conversation with RTÉ presenter Baz Ashmawy Words: Emer Kelly

is an Emmy and IFTA Award Winning Radio and TV Broadcaster who has been a truly exciting Talent on our airwaves for over ten years. Most recently, Baz’s show ‘Wingman’ aired to phenomenal praise on RTÉ One.

Image: Noel Kelly Management

there was an element as to whether or not we could pull this off in Ireland and we were thinking are we too small of a country compared to the UK and its population and even from the point of view of companies coming on board and donating.

The show saw Baz guide many different characters from all walks of life on a journey towards making their dreams a reality. The show has been commissioned for a second series. In 2018, Baz took to the shiny stage of ITV to host their musical game show called ‘Change Your Tune’, He also created and presented ‘All Bets Are Off’, a documentary on the topic of gambling for RTÉ. For one of his epic adventures, Baz was joined by his Mammy Nancy for a whirlwind journey across the globe for the hit Sky 1 show, 50 Ways To Kill Your Mammy. His first TV adventure was the wildly energetic and hugely successful hit comedy/travel series How Low Can You Go? on RTÉ Two which ran for five seasons. After this his first solo project saw him delve into the weird and the wonderful, from witches to biker gangs and from eccentrics to people who lived only on road kill with his brilliant and insightful series Baz’s Culture Clash on RTÉ Two. With no time to stop Baz began his next project Baz’s Extreme Worlds traveling to a maximum security prison in Oklahoma, trekking through the Arctic and working on a Trawler ship in Ireland. On RTÉ, Baz followed his spiritual journey back to practicing Islam for The Lost Muslim. He also presented The Fanatics on Sky 1. He can be found regularly guest presenting on RTÉ Radio One. Mr Ashmawy was also recently announced as the host of the Irish version of DIY SOS which will air later this year on RTÉ One. Here, we discuss the show and the future with Baz who very graciously accepted our interview request and was very giving with his time. “I think because DIY SOS is such a huge show in the UK,

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It’s very moving and powerful.

The show is all based on good will and genorosity and the show wouldn’t work without a lot of people from catering to volunteers, to people getting supplies and bigger construction companies,’’ said Baz Ashmawy. “Recording the show has been amazing and I have always felt that Irish people are at their best when they are helping other people because it is just in our nature. You see these ladies and men on site; these men have big shovel hands and they are breaking their back for nothing and some of them have travelled two or three hours to come to site for seven o’clock in the morning and heading home at seven o’clock that night and returning the next day “There is a huge sense of community with this show and it is unbelieveable to see this sense of community and togetherness. My job is just to tell the story of the family from day one and how we are going to change their lives forever in the space of nine days. It’s very moving and powerful to be a part of something like this ,’’ added Mr Ashmawy. “The turn around of the projects in insane and I think that is why everybody loves it. Alan and John from Sycamore Construction are the head builders over the projects and I don’t know how they orchestrate the projects because the work is relentless for nine days.

“

I’m new to this show and I do get upset on site sometimes and I do relate things to my own family but that is only because I have a family and they are the hinge of my life so personally for me it helps me to relate to the masses because sometimes I am talking to a large group of people and I have to talk from the heart and everyone volunteering on the show is the same as they all have familes and to get the best out of them, I have to maybe tug a bit on the heartstrings and remind them that we all have families and maybe at times we take stuff for granted and until it is shown to you or you see an example of how it can go the other way you don’t really savour or appreciate what you have enough, he enthused.

“Sympathy does very little for people and pitying someone does very little for people but having empathy and feelings for someone and their situation isn’t a bad thing. There is something very special about this show, it’s as inspiring and great as it is sometimes upsetting and sad. Shows like this don’t come around very often and I love it. “Prior to COVID 19, we shot two episodes and then we downed tools. We are starting to film a new episode this month and it will be tricky enough due to restrictions and it will be like a military operation. There will be a lot less people on site so we will have to work on the projects over a longer period of time. Filming is going to be a lot more intense, it will be a bit more pressure but we will do the project. The show is going out around November,’’ added Mr Ashmawy. As to the future? “I’m working on my own podcast called ‘The Good, The Baz and The Ugly,’ and I’m working on other tv projects. I’m very lucky that I enjoy what I do and when I get up in the mornings going to work doesn’t feel like a chore,’’ concluded Baz Ashmawy.

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Sympathy does very little for people.

All about

SKÖN...

David Doyle speaks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

KÖN are an Irish owned company with over 15 years’ experience specialising in bespoke luxury sliding wardrobes.

“

It’s very positive for us.

When choosing SKÖN you choose to support local trade yet invest in exceptional Scandinavian inspired furniture. This company takes inspiration from the beauty, elegance and simplicity of Scandinavian design. Their units are completely handmade by the team. This means each unit is designed from start to finish for you and your space only which makes it a completely unique piece. SKÖN pride themselves in using only fully qualified cabinet makers for both the manufacture and installation of your storage solutions. The team work from their very own offices, showroom and factory in Churchtown, Dublin 14. This allows all of their staff from designers to the production team and fitters to work alongside each other throughout the entire process of making your bespoke wardrobe. SKÖN‘s product range consists of 2/3/4/5/6 sliding door wardrobes, corner wardrobes, walk in wardrobes, all of which can include vanity units, television units and study desk area. We also provide 3D graphics of your custom built unit. SKÖN also try to make the customers experience as hassle free by providing extra services including the removal of existing wardrobes, electrical work such as moving sockets and installing lights, and some building works including stud walls etc.

“

When a customer contacts us we provide the full service from the beginning to end of the project.

“The business is flying. In terms of the future of SKÖN ? “ We have recently renovated our state of the art showroom with the latest trends along with some classic designs, which include new materials and colours to our ever expanding range. We have also invested in our in house production factory, this investment helps our crew produce the highest standard of finish which the Irish wardrobe market has not seen before. “so it’s very positive for us,’’ concluded David Doyle.

“

We design the Wardrobe using 3D graphic design.

scandinavian sliding wardrobe design

sales@skondesign.com 01 298 9059 www.skondesign.com

We create bespoke, luxury,

Scandinavian style sliding wardrobes

Blue Star Building Solutions go above and beyond

for their customers

Ryan Bolger speaks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

lue Star Building Solutions cover all of your needs in the domestic and commercial market from fitting your wooden floors to bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. They cover it all! Unbelievable quality at unmatched prices. The company is based in Carlow and covers Kilkenny, Laois and Kildare along with other parts of Leinster. “I went out on my own in 2019 and things are going very well. I’ve got a great team of people around me as well. When things were quiet a number of years ago, although I’m a qualified carpenter by trade I worked with various other tradespeople and I trained up to learn how to tile and to do plumbing and so forth,’’ explained Ryan Bolger. “I’m very particular when it comes to my work and I’ve been told that I have a great eye for attention to detail which I think is what helps me stand out against the crowd. I always try to go above and beyond for my customers whilst taking into consideration as to how I would like a certain job done in my own house and that’s why I try to relate to my own customers and any one that I have ever done work for previously I’ve always got repeat work from them.

“

My business is going to continue to grow.

“I’m working on a lot of bathrooms at the moment where there are very high end unique styles. Herringbone parquet flooring is coming back in big and it is a specialist job because not many people can do it. There is something to fit everyone’s budget and I fit that into all of my work as well so people will get their end desired goal. I live to see the smile on my customer’s face when I finish a job! “My business is going to continue to grow and I can see a lot of inside renovation work and then down the line I would like to get into building bespoke houses from scratch so that’s my goal,’’ concluded Ryan Bolger.

“

There is something to fit everyone’s budget.

“

Going forward, I’m very positive about the future of my business. At the moment, I can see the customers really take stock of what they want for their homes and they want really high end stuff and I love that and I’m happy to fulfill that request. They are taking inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest and I can see a lot of high end, bespoke renovation work taking place right across the board,

enthused Mr Bolger.

BLUE ST

BUILDING SOLUTIONS

bluestarbuildingsolutions@gmail.com 085 736 7375

Fully c2 and vat registered, we cover all your needs in the domestic and commercial market, from ﬁtting your wooden ﬂoors to bespoke kitchens and bathrooms ,we cover it all , unbelievable quality at unmatched prices

IMPROVE IN KILDARE

“It is an ATTRACTIVE house.”

www.hom ea nd b uild .ie

ROOM to improve in

KILDARE A beautiful renovation in Athgarvan Words: Emer Kelly Pics: RTÉ Press Office & Coco Content LTD

avid and Nessa Conlon’s split level house is in a cul-de-sac, close to The Curragh in County Kildare and was full of interesting quirks, like curved interior walls, a corridor with seven doors leading into bedrooms and bathrooms and most alarmingly - a 600

square meter garden, with a 40 degree slope rising to a height well above the roof of the house. With a budget of more than €220,000 Architect Dermot Bannon had a huge challenge on his hands both inside and outside the house. This jovial couple appeared on the most recent series of the RTÉ programme ‘Room to Improve,’ last September and here, Mrs Conlon talks to us about the beautiful home she ended up with. “When we applied up to participate in Room to Improve we never thought that we would be selected. It was always a pipe dream that we would ever have a house designed by Dermot Bannon,’’ explained Nessa Conlon. “When we got the call to say that we were selected I nearly crashed the car with excitement. We did however have to think twice about it because obviously you are exposing yourself to the nation but the pros well outweighed the cons. The programme went down very well and rather than the show being focused around us it was focused around the house, the garden and the involvement of Diarmuid Gavin as well. We pinched ourselves when we heard Diarmuid Gavin was getting involved, he had a vision for the garden to do something different and we didn’t need a football pitch for a garden. There is a large green area just down the road from us. The garden works so well for us, it is unique and relatively free from hard work. It needs to be pruned once a year along with a bit of weeding. “It was very easy to work with Dermot Bannon and he is an expert at his trade. We trusted Dermot and I think he may have felt more pressure because we didn’t really question his decisions but he didn’t push his decisions on us either. We worked together,’’ added Mrs Conlon. With this being the Conlon’s third move, it was imperative to them that they ended up with a forever home in Kildare and seeing as these houses don’t often come up for sale, it is a rather unique house to live in. “There is nothing we would change about the house and it just works for us as a family. We have four bedrooms, the open plan space isn’t too big and it works for us. We have the den area which can be closed off when either the kids or us are using this space. I think it is very important to have a separate space that you can close off (like our den) especially when you have open plan living,’’ she enthused.

www.hom ea nd b uild .ie

IMPROVE IN KILDARE

In terms of what attracted David and Nessa to buying this house? “A couple of things caught our eyes about this house and location was one of them as very few properties like this one come up around the Newbridge/ Athgarvan area. We were after a house where you have your own privacy but you also have neighbours and the layout of this house was also rather different. “We didn’t want to live out in the countryside or to be isolated but we also didn’t want to be on the road night and day with the kids either. There is also a local link bus that they will be able to use when they get that bit older. The house is a split level bungalow and in my opinion it is an attractive house,’’ added Mrs Conlon. As to any advice Nessa would give to anyone who is about to embark on a renovation project? “I definitely think people are naïve when it comes to the cost of renovating. When you are doing a project like this (our house) you want to do it properly and you want to finish it, you don’t want to finish it off six months later and luckily we were in the financial position that we could do that through hard work and saving really hard. “The biggest thing to understand is that you are going to spend more than you think you are going to spend. It is clients expectations that drive the budget and that is so true. To get good quality stuff (appliances, flooring, kitchen etc), you will pay for it. Everyone that worked on the project was fantastic,’’ concluded Nessa Conlon.

www.hom ea nd b uild .ie

IMPROVE IN KILDARE

CONTACT LIST ARCHITECT: Dermot Bannon, Dermot Bannon Architects, 16 The Seapoint Building, 44-45 Clontarf Road, County Dublin - D03 RF63 01-8850172 www.dermotbannonarchitects.ie info@dermotbannonarchitects.ie

ENGINEER: Loscher Moran, Unit 2 Block 4B, Blanchardstown Corporate Park, Dublin 15 - 01-5175959 www.lme.ie - admin@lme.ie

DAIkIN HALF PAGe

MAIN CONTRACTOR: Leetherm, Kilusty, Fethard, Co. Tipperary 052-6131550 www.leetherm.ie info@leetherm.ie

ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS: Ciaran Devine, 01-6268038 - 086-8521911 ciaran.devinearch@gmail.com WINDOWS: Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd, Whitestown Business Park, Whitestown Industrial Estate, Tallaght, Dublin 24 01-4626671 www.seandoylewindows.ie info@seandoylewindows.ie BOILER: Grant Engineering, Ballinree, County Offaly 057-9120089 www.grantengineering.ie info@grantengineering.ie

GARDEN DESIGN: Diarmuid Gavin www.diarmuidgavindesigns.co.uk FARDEN PLANTS: Arboretum, Rathvinden, Leighlingbridge, County Carlow - 059-9721558

KITCHEN & FITTED FURNITURE: Karl Cullen, Karl Cullen Fitted Kitchens, Monart East, County Wexford 086-3313850 www.karlcullen.ie sales@karlcullen.ie CARPENTER (FLOORS & DOORS): Enda McEnery, Enda McEnery Carpentry, Mullinahoe, Thurles, Co. Tipperary 087-7556174 CARPENTER (FIRST FIX CARPENTRY & ROOF): Donal & Richie Carpentry, Roscrea, County Tipperary 089-4621777 FLOOR SCREED: Joe & Karen Kenna, Fast Floor Screed, Enfield, County Meath - 046-9549966 www.fastfloorscreed.ie info@fastfloorscreed.ie

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR: Tom Kennedy, Tom Kennedy Electrial Services Ltd, 18 Ballyrichard Court, Carrick On Suir, Co. Tipperary 087-6759015 MOT84kennedy@gmail.com PLUMBING CONTRACTOR: Seamus Tracy, James Tracy Plumbing & Heating, Roscrea, County Tipperary 087-9854875 jtracyplumbing@eircom.net KITCHEN APPLIANCES (1): Miele, 2024 Bianconi Avenue, Citywest Business Park, Dublin 24 - 01-4610710 www.miele.ie - info@miele.ie KITCHEN APPLIANCES (2): Harvey Norman, Newhall Retail Park, Naas, County Kildare - 045-907700 www.harveynorman.com

FURNITURE: Meadows & Byrne, Unit 12-15 Naas Town Centre, Dublin Road, Naas East, County Kildare - 045-579595 www.meadowsandbyrne.ie

FURNITURE, KITCHEN TABLE & CHAIRS: Siobhan O’Reilly, Harvey Norman, Tallaght, Dublin 24 - 01-4684500 www.harveynorman.com Siobhan.O’Reilly@ie.harveynorman.com

RESIN PATH: Keltec Paving Products, Kilpierce, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford 053-9233771 www.keltecltd.com info@keltecltd.com

ARTWORK: Stoney Road Press, 11-13 Stoney Road, County Dublin 01-8878544 www.stoneyroadpress.com mail@stoneyroadpress.com

LANDSCAPING: Patrick Maher, Patrick Maher Paving & Landscaping, Graffin, Clonmore, Templemore, County Tipperary 086-3650519

SANITARY WARE: Kildare Bathroom Company, Link Business Park, Kilcullen, County Kildare - 045-482940 www.kildarebathrooms.ie sales@kildarebathrooms.ie

brookcreek

LIGHTING: Hicken Lighting, 17 Lower Bridge Street, Merchants Quay, Dublin 8 01-6777882 www.hickenlighting.com sales@hickenlighting.com PAVING: Tilemerchant, Dockrells Complex, Ballymount Road Upper, Ballymount, Dublin 24 01-6950095 www.tilemerchant.ie info@tilemerchant.ie

CARPETS: BTW, M7 Business Park, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare - 045-981750 www.hom ea nd b uild .ie

CARPETS: Shay Dowling Carpets, Ladytown Business Park, Co. Kildare - 045-409173 shaydowling@yahoo.com WOODEN FLOORING: Floor Design Ltd, Kylemore Park North, Dublin 10 - 01-6234157 www.floordesign.ie info@floordesign.ie

WORKTOPS: Enniscorthy Stone Works Ltd, Ross Road, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, County Wexford 053-9249982 PAINTER: Pat O’Connell, Pat O’Connell Decorating, Mullinahone, County Tipperary 087-2914574 POC68oconnell@gmail.com

Drumlargan Construction are going strong!

The Nordic Pine structure is made from laminated pine profiles and combines all of the best design features available with excellent weather performance, long life and aesthetic appeal. The timber is a sustainable, renewable material with high insulation values. The garden room/ pod offers low maintenance durable aluminium exterior trims with warm natural wood cladding and fully finished interior.

David O’Neill talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

The Bi-Fold timber door fold back completely to optimize the use of space inside, while allowing seamless traffic between garden and interior even with limited space.

The doors and windows are thermally insulated and combine precision engineering and performance. Available in Aluclad PVC and Aluminum finishes.

rumlargan Construction work directly with their clients and focus solely on high end refurbishment and restoration projects and more complex or unusual builds to which they bring a unique approach. Drumlargan Construction’s portfolio include many types and styles of residential and commercial properties. The company specialises in whole life cycle construction management and delivering new build and luxury refurbishment projects.

As to the future of Drumlargan Construction? “We’re still very busy however the only problem that we envisage is how Brexit is going to affect import supplies coming from the United Kingdom,’’ concluded David O’Neill.

They work with some of Ireland’s most respected architects, incorporating cutting edge design features and state-of-the-art technology. The company have long standing relationships with their clients and sub-contractors, who share their mission to deliver reliability and an unrivalled attention to detail. Whether it’s a simple conversion, the addition of a new storey or a larger residential development, Drumlargan Construction are confident they can add value to any construction project.

“

“My brother Richie and I come from a building background and I’m a stone mason by trade. I was a foreman for a company when I worked in America and when I came home, a cousin of

“

We’re doing more residential work at the moment.

mine asked me to build an extension for them and that was the beginning of Drumlargan Construction. We’re in business 16 years and the all is going well. When we first started the company, our work was all residential but we gained contacts within the commercial sector and that produced a lot of commercial work. However, in the past year or two we have been very busy on the residential side of things,’’ said David O’Neill. The Drumlargan Pod or Garden Room can be a home office, summer retreat, guest room, gym, meditation room or play room designed and hand-built in Ireland. They will fit wonderfully into any garden or space.

We’ve been working on the garden rooms since lock down was announced and we’ve a few units to complete for installation when lock down is lifted again. They are garnering a lot of attention and they make a really nice addition to any family home, etc he enthused.

With its attractive overhang and roof veranda, the Garden Room allow plenty of natural light inside. They are fully insulated and double glazed which mean they are perfect for all year round. Due to the pandemic, a significant proportion of the population would now prefer to work from home, it seems for at least some of the week so now is the perfect time to invest in a Garden Room for your home.

“

We’re still very busy.

DRUMLARGAN PODS & GARDEN ROOMS Garden Rooms with Space & Comfort

Designed and hand-built in Ireland, our Garden Studio is ideal for year-round use. It will fit wonderfully into the corner of any garden and add value to your home.

info@drlg.ie 087 987 2275 David O’Neill 087 290 5394 Richard O’Neill www.drlg.ie The Moy, Summerhill, Co. Meath.

Exciting times

for a new

Interior Designer on the block!

Cody McEvoy talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

ody McEvoy is an up and coming Interior Designer who is qualified in Ordinary and Honors Bachelors in Interior Design & Architecture.

“I was very interested in art and design from the time I was a child and I then went to IT Sligo to study interior architecture and design. I love colours and I’ve always had an eye for design,’’ said Cody McEvoy. “I’ve been working for Seamie Walsh for the last few years. He took me on and I would work in his shop every Friday before Seamie took me on full time so during college I had an understanding of the real world as well as attending college because I was working with real life people and working with budgets which was a great experience and it gave me a real understanding of working with clients as well as learning what they like, listening to the client and not overpowering them. “It is very important to understand your client and ensure what they get from the outcome of your work,’’ enthused Ms McEvoy. “I love playing around with colours as well as working with paints, fabrics and textures. You can do anything with colours once you have the right balance as well as be as bold as you want! Dark colours aren’t something to be scared of but to be empowered and played around with! In terms of the services Cody offers with her company? “I think I have a quirky side to me that I’m not afraid to use colour. I always listen to the customer but I would always give my advice on what I would do. I have a lot of experience to show from working in Seamie Walsh Interiors. As to the future of Ms McEvoy’s business? “I would love to push myself nationwide and I’m currently working on a café. I would really like to work on an entire house rather than just a couple of bedrooms,’’ concluded Cody McEvoy.

“

It is very important to understand your client.

“

I love colours.

Cody McEvoy Interior Designer Qualified in Ordinary and Honors Bachelors in Interior Architecture and Design

mcevoycody@gmail.com |

087 278 4728 |

#codymcevoyinterior

The future of

Copperfish is radiating light

Images: Webpress

Eoin Shanley talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

opperfish is a family business led by husband and wife team Eoin Shanley and Yvonne McGarry, based in County Wicklow. Copperfish creates beautiful contempory lighting from salvaged and storm-fallen timber selected for its character and provenance. Established in 2016 by Eoin, the seeds for the business were sown during the restoration of a 200-year-old thatched cottage a few years previous. Following conservation best practices, Eoin and Yvonne used local, traditional and salvaged materials to lovingly and painstakingly restore the cottage. When they found it difficult to find lighting that they liked, Eoin started to make his own using the skills he had learnt with the materials he had to hand. Very quickly he started to get requests from friends and family and soon after Copperfish was born. “I am self-taughtbut worked on building sites many moons ago when I was studying so I learnt a lot from working with various tradespeople,” said Eoin Shanley. “I have always been interested in design and have always been creative, it just took me a while to find my thing” says Eoin. “Our primary material is very old timber – most of it is hundreds of years old and with that comes provenance as well as lots of character”. Shanley combines that with industrial materials and retro style bulbs to create beautiful lights that are tactile and organic while also managing to tick the contemporary industrial box. “I’m very lucky to be able to do what I love doing and I’m obsessed with the timber; I know the provenance of every single piece of timber in my workshop,” enthused Mr Shanley

“

I’m very lucky to be able to do what I love.

Given the business’s origins in the restoration of a thatched cottage, sustainability is a core to the business “Our bulbs are some of the highest quality LED bulbs available on the market today and our packaging is sustainable. There’s always more to be done but it really matters to us and to our customers – it’s not just a marketing message,” says Eoin. Since lockdown, Copperfish has seen an increase in people treating themselves “good lighting is never a waste of money – apart from the mental health benefits it can also really quickly and easily transform a space.

“We’ve also seen an increase in ceiling lights in particular for kitchen islands and over dining tables. We’ve all been at home more and we want our spaces to be warm and inviting and our lights definitely achieve that. All of Copperfish’s lights can be customised including cables, fittings and timber choices by getting in touch with me (Eoin) at www.copperfish.ie, he added. Copperfish’s products include ceiling lights, table lamps, wall lights and floor lamps. Copperfish lamps are available in Meadows & Byrne and Kilkenny stores nationwide as well as independent retailers around the country and online at www.copperfish.ie, concluded Eoin Shanley

“

The business is a labour of love.

info@copperfish.ie 086 853 4758 www.copperfish.ie

Storied lamps and lighting

handmade from forgotten wood

Sustainable by design

Designed & Handmade in Ireland

Modern designs rooted in history

I loved the

end result.

In conversation with Paul Moore about a Belfast beauty... Words: Emer Kelly

Images: McCann Moore

“

The essence of what we first looked at was what was built.

or more than 15 years, McCann Moore Residential Architects Belfast have been creating contemporary, elegant homes that their clients love to live in. This practice is creative and dynamic offering a rare blend of practical hands on experience and creative design flair. Their aim is to deliver bespoke and inspirational designs that are completely personal to you. McCann Moore spends a great deal of time with their clients trying to understand their vision and discussing how they can translate that into beautiful, yet practical spaces. The team relish the prospect of designing a home from scratch but are just as inspired with the challenges of extending or converting an existing building.

Here, Paul Moore talks about a modern extension to a 1920’s house in Belfast. “This project turned out really, really well. I became involved with this project as the clients liked our stuff on the website and they contacted us to work on this property. The house was a semi-detached Victorian red brick house. Typical of those houses in that it had a tiny kitchen, an outside toilet and a coal shed off the kitchen,’’ said Paul Moore. “The clients wanted a nice kitchen, dining area and a cool space to relax in whilst enjoying the view of the garden. The house was very disjointed to the garden prior to the renovation work being done.

“From start to finish, this project ran very smoothly. I met with the clients and walked through the house whilst discussing the brief. The brief was tweaked a little but the essence of what we first looked at was what was built,’’ enthused Mr Moore. Mr Moore studied at Queen’s University graduating in 1996. He has worked for Todd Architects and was an associate in RPP. Paul set up McCann Moore Architects with his business partner Sean McCann in 2007. “I loved the end result and the clients had great taste as well and they were great to work with.” With more and more people embarking on renovation work with their own homes at varying levels across the board, what advice would Paul offer them? “Hit pause and take your time! Get a feel for what you want to do to your home and there is potential in every home. Figure out what works and doesn’t work about the house. Set yourself a realistic budget. Make up a priority list of what you want and consider your lifestyle now and going forward! “What’s really important is to make sure your house connects really well internally so the transition between the existing house an extension (you may be doing) is as seamless as possible. Don’t just plonk a box on to the back of your house. Connect the house well internally and externally whilst bringing as much light into the house as you can and bring as much of the outdoors indoors and vice versa,’’ concluded Paul Moore.

“

The house was very disjointed.

“

This project ran very smoothly.

CONTACT LIST ARCHITECT

Paul Moore, McCann Moore Architects P: 0044 774 502 0854 W: www.mccannmoore.ie E: mail@mccannmoore.com

CSH Furniture is the garden furniture company

for you!

Images: Webpress

In conversation with Ian Scully by Emer Kelly

hether it is your own design or you are inspired by their ever-growing selection, CSH Furniture has got you covered with delivery straight to your door!

Enjoy your garden with their outdoor furniture featuring a great range for summer 2021. From a garden table and chairs for sale at the best price, they have something to suit every garden. “We are originally an event company, and 12 months ago our industry closed down so, it was through necessity that this business was set up. We were experienced with building custom furniture for events, we just re-directed it towards homes,” said Ian Scully. “With everything moving outdoors, we have seen an increase in sales, not just for gardens but schools, restaurants, cafes getting ready to re-open.

“With our pergolas, furniture and stretch tents, it is the way to go, and we provide an all-around package that includes nationwide delivery”. “We are also in the middle of creating a page where you can rent our furniture if you don’t wish to purchase. All items are fully assembled,” added Mr Scully.

“

Irish company using Irish suppliers with stock ready to deliver

“We also supply wheelie bin and bicycle storage units too. In the last couple of weeks, there has been an increase in customising your wheelie bin storage as people are now looking for the item in various colours. Also, popular coming into the summer months is our garden bars. As to the future of CSH Furniture? “The plan is to take it in our stride as we have done over the past 12 months. We’re expecting the summer to be busy and we’re equipped for that in the sense that we have our own fleet of transport and our own team of carpenters and drivers. We’re also going to look at what new products or ideas are out there and listen to our customers to help bring new products to the market,” concluded Ian Scully.

“

All items are fully assembled and delivered to your door

info@cshfurniture.ie 087 938 6287 www.cshfurniture.ie

Enjoy your Garden with our

Picturesque Outdoor furniture.

Ardagh Joinery continue to specialise in

bespoke projects Denis O’Connor talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

rdagh Joinery Works is an Irish owned family business with more than 40 years experience in the carpentry and joinery industry based in Castlemahon in County Limerick. The team are fully qualified and deliver exceptional quality across a wide range of projects. These include all aspects of bespoke carpentry including staircases, handcrafted kitchens, doors, windows, bedrooms, wall panelling, skirting and architrave all made to your own personal design and to the highest of standards.

“

I set this business up with my Father in Law 10 years ago and I worked in carpentry prior to that for a number of years. The business is busy all the time and we specialise in bespoke projects, said Denis O’Connor.

“

We specialise in bespoke projects

They design an array of stairs such as cut string stairs, housed stairs, spiral stairs and open tread stairs in a variety of hardwoods. Ardagh Joinery Works cover nationwide and they have many satisfied customers all over Ireland. They have extensive experience and all of their work comes with reference and they are highly recommended. All of their tradesmen are trained on the latest systems and methods available to their respective disciplines, ensuring that all your work complies with the highest industry standards. “Our work is hands on but it is enjoyable. We have a lot of projects to work on in the coming months as so many people are spending money on projects around their homes which is great. As to the future of Ardagh Joinery? “We want to continue doing what we do and offering a good service to our clients,’’ concluded Denis O’Connor.

“

We have a lot of projects to work on

SERVICES

Bathrooms

Handcrafted Furniture

Handcrafted Kitchens

ARDAGH JOINERY

Doors

Wooden Gates

ardagh.joineryworks@hotmail.com 069 77077 086 878 4676 087 975 7821 www.ardaghjoinery.com

More of the same

coming down the line for

Steel &

Woodcraft

Michael Carton talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

In his opinion, what are some things that customers should consider in advance of purchasing a gate? “It’s nice to have a scan around other houses and get an idea of what type of gate you are after and figure out whether or not it is the right type of gate for your and your home. Consider where your downpipes etc are as the position of your gate is key,’’ enthused Michael. As to the future of Steel & Woodcraft?

“The future is very bright and we’re probably going to be expanding the business soon enough on the back of our social media platforms which is exciting,’’ concluded Michael Carton

teel & Woodcraft are based in Celbridge Industrial Estate in County Kildare. For more than 20 years they have supplied and fitted gates in wood and steel to both residential and commercial clients in Dublin and Kildare. They can provide wood and steel gates in all styles, steel framed wooden gates, painted gates, galvanised gates, automated gates and powder coated gates. All gates are made in their workshop and will be erected on site at your home or office. All gates are also available in a large variety of styles. All of Steel & Woodcraft’s gates are made with the highest quality steel and wood. Their wooden gates can be supplied in either softwood or hardwood varieties. Softwood gates will generally last about 10 years while hardwood gates will last a lot longer. Their entire range of wooden gates are supplied with three coats of wood stain. However, they will require a coat of wood stain once a year to maintain the quality of the gate. Painted gates should also be painted annually to maintain them. This company has also recently launched their wheelie bin sheds and they are proving very popular with domestic customers. Unsightly wheelie bins can now be housed inside their decorative wheelie bin sheds. “The business has been going from strength to strength since the beginning of the pandemic but thankfully we have always been a busy company. As we coincide with building and for as long as they are building houses, we are going to be getting calls to install gates,’’ said Michael. “There is such an increase in new housing developments that when we do gates for one property it seems to be a case that the whole row of houses wants us to do their houses as well! “We have seen a demand for certain colours (as the client/s want the gate to match in with their windows and door) which normally happens when you are working on a new house. The composite gate is a big seller for us as the homeowners don’t have to do a lot of work with them and they have great longevity,’’ he enthused.

“Our side gate has gone from a very simple metal frame with timber sheeting to a very similar frame with composite boards which is by far our most popular gate. It gives great privacy and it is a nice gate to look at!”

It gives great privacy.

“

We have seen a demand for certain colours.

info@SteelandWoodGates.com www.steelandwoodgates.com

087 621 4211 089 241 6098

01 627 2011

Unit 2 Celbridge Industrial Estate, Celbridge, Co Kildare. W23CF66

Your health is your wealth

think it is worth talking about our Physical & Mental Health Wellbeing as Construction workers in current times.

Any person who works in the Construction industry knows that we are always working towards an end goal of completing a project or a job at hand, within a set time and to a set budget. This can be very rewarding in terms of getting that feeling of job satisfaction when you handover a completed project, but can also be quite taxing on us physically & mentally. Being under the constant pressure of meeting deadlines and of course the stress of meeting budgets, while try to make a profit, is not easy. These pressures and stresses can accumulate to a point that makes it feels like things are getting on top of us, add the fact that a lot of construction jobs are physically tough, so it is not unusual for our mood and our thoughts to be affected. This is why I feel we need to have a release from these pressures and during more normal times, we had our social outlets or sports & hobbies to give us this. Unfortunately the Covid pandemic has obviously restricted us from doing the things that gave us our outlets for some head space. We all need to keep the balance right between work, family, rest and good mind set.

Keep your head in the right Space

e all have our good days & bad days. We all have moments when things can get on top of us. This is when we need to be able to talk to someone and have a support network that can help. This can be a close friend or a total stranger.

It doesn’t matter who it is once you feel comfortable talking to them. I have purposely starting doing fun dance videos, with my work mates on my Instagram account @pete_thebuilder. I’m doing this to add a bit of fun to our working day and to hoping give people viewing a laugh. It also breaks any onsite tensions and gives us plenty of fuel for banter while we work. I am honoured to have been involved in helping some really good organisations that are pushing some great campaigns which are aimed at breaking down any stigma’s attached to mental health issues or feelings of depression. We have all heard the saying ‘Its Ok to not be Ok’. Well no truer words have been spoken. Ohana Zero suicide awareness group have an excellent platform where you can complete an on-line course that trains you to identify if someone may be having suicidal thoughts. I highly recommend everyone to take this training, as it may help you save someone from making a bad choice with a simple chat or goodwill gesture. Every person trained is another person who may help save a life. Go to: www.Ohana.ie

I really feel the benefits of this to my mental health and obviously to my physical wellbeing too. Getting out and getting moving is without doubt a seriously positive step in the right direction. I would also recommend that any person reading this article to make a wise decision and go get a medical check-up. We can’t let a year go by without getting our vehicles checked, so just think of it like an NCT for your body. I was part of a fantastic campaign lead by Chadwicks Builders Providers, that encouraged Construction workers to join the NTC – National Trade Check and advocates getting a medical check done. I am now part of the team on the ‘Constructive Voices Podcast’ and I will be discussing the items above, along with many other Construction based topics, so please tune in to hear more on these very important subjects.

We like to move it, move it

xercise is also an amazing way of releasing built up energies and emotions. The feel good factor after exercising is REAL and has definitely helped me get my head clear and stay positive, during these difficult and uncertain times. My sister Sue & I started doing early morning runs & workouts at the start of the first Lockdown and we have not stopped since.

So folks, Let’s do this! Let’s be Kind, Let’s talk, Let’s show we care, Let’s ask some questions, Let’s get out there, Let’s get some fresh air & Let’s get some good head space! : @pete_thebuilder

: @pete_thebuilder

: @builder_pete

Every moment was given to the house

but

it was completely worth it... Rachel Hobbs talks to Build & Renovate Words: Emer Kelly

Images: Rachel Hobbs

nterior Architect and Designer Rachel Hobbs and her husband, Robert snapped up a 200 year old farmhouse just outside Ballincollig in County Cork. The Hobbs purchased their family home in 2017 and lived in a mobile home with their three children on site whilst transforming the house into the fabulous home it is today.

“The location of the farmhouse was perfect for us as it was near to family, near to main routes but it still felt rural. It needed enough work that we could make it our own and the space outside has potential for updates also. It felt like the right place for our family to be,’’ said Rachel Hobbs.

Everything needed to be upgraded and reconfigured to make it suitable for the young couple and their children Rocco, Indie and Forrest. Mrs Hobbs was keen to maintain the look of the original building from the front and include aspects of the essence of the building throughout the new house.

“We enjoyed the renovation process wholeheartedly. It was all consuming as it was a direct labour build on top of a full time job and three small children in a mobile home on site. Every moment was given to the house but it was completely worth it.”

In terms of whether or not the renovation ran smoothly or did they encounter any difficulties or delays along the way? “There were no massive delays, all the work between trades is a lot more time consuming than anticipated. With our backgrounds in Interior Design and as an Engineering Manager and with Rob’s Father, Ray being a steel fabricator, it meant that we had a good balance of practicality and the final finish in mind. We had a lot of preparation and design detail considered ahead of the time so we could make decisions fast,’’ enthused Mrs Hobbs.

“

I loved the design phase of it.

“ As to the layout of the house? “We kept the footprint of the original farmhouse and converted an adjacent shed. The original house has the utility room, sitting room and office and the shed and the piece that joins them holds the kitchen, dining and living room. The main entrance is at the back of the house, like a good traditional farmhouse and the hallway links the front and back door. Upstairs there are four bedrooms, a bathroom and an ensuite. The landing has an area looking down to the back door and we have a floor net here instead of having an open void. “Our favourite part of our house is the landing space. Seeing the children enjoy and play in a space that could have been a walk through zone, but now is an area that we all spend time in. The open plan downstairs works really well too; it is in an L shape and there is a wall running some of the way between the kitchen and living space, which creates a cosier feel in there rather than one big open area,’’ she added. As an Interior Designer, did Rachel find it difficult when it came to designing her own home? “We had an Architect for the design phase of the house which was brilliant to streamline the ideas and have a neutral perspective in creating a home for us. When you’re so involved in something, a professional sounding board to keep you on track is always helpful. I loved the design phase of it because Gary (GOFA) was as in to the details as I was. Rob wasn’t so into the stairs detailing at 11pm at night before the planning application had even gone

We had a lot of preparation and design detail considered.

in!” What advice would she offer to anyone who may be about to embark on a renovation project? “Get advice from the professionals where possible. Write yourself a brief for the house, consider how you will use the space for every aspect of your day. Are there things you can adjust or include to make this a more enjoyable home for this task? What is important to you, may not be as important in someone else’s home, it’s such a personal experience so keep yourself focused on your needs. “It will take a lot of your time, brain space and physically but it will be your life afterwards so it is worth giving it your all and making considered decisions. Things will have to change and adapt in the duration of the process, some things always come up but it’s not the end of the world! There are always other options and often it turns out to be a better one. Listen to the professionals but do your own research too to be informed. Look for opportunities and stay ahead of the build where possible and try to enjoy it!,’’ imparted Rachel. Is there anything that The Hobbs would change or do differently when it comes to their home? ”We adore the house and every inch of it is used but we would have put a drinking water tap on the first floor, moved a window 30cm to the side to give more space for curtains to sit and maybe extended the flat roof a little more to create an overhang. A smaller stove would have been enough in the sitting room too,’’ concluded Rachel Hobbs.

CONTACT LIST INTERIOR DESIGN Rachel Hobbs, Rachel Hobbs Interiors

P: 087-633 4595 W: www.Instagram.com/rachelhobbsinteriors E: mrachelhobbsinteriors@gmail.com

My job is

hobby! Images: Webpress

In conversation with Eoin Nolan by Emer Kelly

.N. Garden Designs Ltd is one of Cork’s premier garden design companies, who specialise in creating imaginative and practical gardens tailor made to suit the individual requirements and tastes of the client. Eoin Nolan established E.N. Garden Designs in 2002, having graduated from college at the National Botanical Gardens, Dublin after a three year course with a diploma in Amenity Horticulture, later he followed this by completing a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture through the Technical University, Blanchardstown, Dublin in 2011. Prior to establishing the company, Mr Nolan gained extensive experience working with landscaping and paving contractors. He also spent considerable time employed in a nursery where he gained his experience with trees and large plant management. In 1999, he won a scholarship and spent three weeks in Japan studying their formal style of landscaping and the tranquil settings their design provides, along with the creation and maintenance of bonsai trees and shrubs. Today, he imports bonsai plants and incorporates them in projects. In 2002, he qualified as one of six to participate in the television show entitled ‘The Garden Heaven Show,’ (now known as Bloom) in the RDS in Dublin where he received a ‘highly commended,’ certificate for his contemporary Japanese style design. In 2014, he was offered a great opportunity to travel to Australia where he oversaw the project management of a redesign of a garden on country estate. In this role, Eoin designed the garden, sourced plants from different parts of Australia and was hands on in working on the project. E.N. Garden Designs offers a fully integrated design service for both hard and soft landscaping from original concept to final planting. Over the years, there has been a wide range of gardens designed and built by Eoin on a national level which illustrate the clean, uncluttered lines that has become his signature style.

Since qualifying Mr Nolan has gained immense experience at both design and installation from the various projects which he has undertaken. The projects undertaken have ranged in value from €1,000 to €180,000. This company’s services include landscaping, garden design, a planting and supply service from his own nursery. “I set up my business in November 2002 and my job is my hobby. From the age of seven I was growing seeds and then at

the age of 12 I was selling them along with window boxes and hanging baskets. I knew that I wanted to study design and horticulture from the time I was in third year in secondary school,’’ explained Eoin Nolan. “An interesting part of my business is travelling around Europe and selecting plants for projects and for my nursery. In my nursery I grow this stock on for projects, the plants I specialise in are mainly Japanese maples but I stock many more varieties of plants” enthused Mr Nolan. “I’m a very precise person when it comes to doing things, in that I either do it right or I don’t do it at all! Clients that come to me want the ‘Wow’ factor and that’s the standard I want to meet every time, I love meeting and surpassing clients’ expectations. By stocking plants that are unusual and mature it allows me to bring something unique to my projects” “A lot of my work would be repeat work from word of mouth of past clients, friends of family and my work is getting recognised a lot more through the use of social media especially on Instagram which really took off during the pandemic last year. My increase in followers surpassed my expectations from when I originally set up the account and this new social media platform has given me an opportunity to show people more of my style of work. My signature style is curves and circles which can be seen from completed projects. I also show different types of plants/ trees, I keep in my nursery, it has given me an opportunity to educate people on various aspects of gardening’’ he added.

“The business is going very well. Fortunately, 2020 was very busy and this year is even busier. It’s busier now than it was in the boom and worldwide the industry is the busiest that it has ever been. This is due to the pandemic, as people want their gardens done as it is considered an additional space in a house and in Covid it is many peoples new social scene.’’ As to any advice Eoin would offer anyone who may be about to embark on work in their garden? “The first thing I would always stress when people want their garden designed is to ensure that they are dealing with someone who is qualified in design and horticulture. You need to ensure that you select the right type and size of plant for the location, many plants fail to thrive or quickly outgrow a space due to the wrong selection of plants for the given area” “Make your project unique or different to anything else that is out there by using different types of materials,’’ revealed Eoin. In terms of the future of E.N. Garden Designs Ltd? “I’m hoping to expand the nursery which is exciting. I like when I am able to bring clients in to show them stock and the clients are also getting a feel for the types of plants they can have in their garden as well as being able to physically see them. Clients feel that they are part of the design process,” concluded Eoin Nolan.

info@engardendesigns.ie (021) 419 0020 (087) 698 1455 www.engardendesigns.ie

SERVICES

Landscaping

Garden Design

Garden Planting

Nursery

Exciting times ahead

forEmerald

Tiles

We have placed a higher emphasis on social media which allows us to reach to a broader audience, sharing ideas and ways that ensures bathroom and home renovation is both interesting and easy to achieve. “Offering customers the latest trends and great service means that travelling to our showroom is always worthwhile and enjoyable, that’s what I work towards every day.

John Maher speaks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

merald Tiles have been based in Urlingford, County Kilkenny for more than 20 years. They have been suppliers and fitters of the highest quality floor tiles, bathroom tiles, all types of timber flooring and bathroom suites to customers in Kilkenny, Tipperary, Laois, Carlow and Offaly amongst other counties. The name Emerald Tiles has become synonymous with quality, value and Customer experience. Choosing Emerald Tiles allows you to look forward to your home improvement, you will benefit from the vast experience and knowledge of the team who are there to support with concept, design and colour while also availing of a nationwide service, in-house interior design and in-house installers for all products. The 7,500 square foot showroom houses an extensive range of high quality products. “We pride ourselves on providing a great customer experience, our aim is to really understand what our customers need and want. We will never sell you something just for the sake of selling something,’’ said John Maher.

“

We will never sell you something just for the sake of selling something.

“Business is going well. People are investing in their homes, money that might have been sent on a foreign holiday is being utilised to improve and transform living areas. As Lockdown (number one) lifted last year we saw a lot of bathroom renovations, there seems to be even more enquiries during in this current lockdown so I expect to be busy in the coming months.

“Interior design continually evolves making our sector of retail very exciting. Over the next number of months, we will see a turn back to the more clay and earthy colours such as clay and terracotta. I believe that is going to be the new grey for the next two years,’’ enthused Mr Maher.

As to the future of Emerald Tiles? “I would like to continue to build our customer base over the next couple of years. I am so excited about the future, the way we interact with our customers now is completely different to how we did five years ago.

“

The way we interact with our customers now is completely different to how we did five years ago.

“As part of that we are updating our showroom which will showcase current trends, designs and styles in a new and improved layout,” concluded John Maher.

& Bathrooms

info@emeraldtiles.ie 056 88 31900 www.emeraldtiles.ie

WHY CHOOSE US Nationwide Service Over 23 Years Experience 7500 square foot showroom Extensive range of high quality products Interior Design Consultation Available Strict Safety Procedures Apply Realistic 3D Image Showroom Open By Appointment

PRODUCTS

TILES

BATHROOMS

TIMBER FLOORING

Emerald Tiles: Main Street, Urlingford, Kilkenny, E41 X5D0.

All about

FloorStore Direct

Floor Store Direct’s flooring types include; herringbone, LVT, laminate, engineered solid wood, solid wood, premium engineered, premium solid timber, premium exotic timber and premium herringbone. “FloorStore Direct are the award winning, leading supplier and professional fitting specialists of engineered laminate and solid wood flooring. Stocking renowned brands like

Joe McMenamin talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

loorStore Direct is a quality wood flooring store which also provides a dust free floor sanding service.

Their fitters have more than 25 years experience in the wooden floor business, some of whom have installed both flooring here and in the United States working for some big names such as Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Shane Filan of Westlife and Louis Vuitton’s showrooms in Madison Avenue in New York. It is this wealth of knowledge and experience that led to this business being set up in 2005.

“

Quality wood flooring delivered from our door to yours! QuickStep, Karndean, Balterio and Krono,’’ said Joe McMenamin. “We also stock Junkersthe premium name in 100% solid hardwood direct from Denmark, boasting a unique finish that will compliment any area in your home. “Quality wood flooring delivered from our door to yours in Dublin and across Ireland. Choose from a range of 700 different styles.

“

Our knowledgeable team are always on hand to advise you.

Our knowledeable team are always on hand to advise you on the best wood flooring solution for your home or business. For all your wood flooring requirements, don’t hesitate in contacting us today,’’ concluded Joe McMenamin.

Ireland’s Leading Floor Specialist

info@floorstoredirect.ie 1890 800 013 www.floorstoredirect.ie

Gardenbar Ireland bringing the pub to the people!

Images: Webpress

Denis ... talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

Gardenbar Ireland are an Irish owned company bringing the pub to the people in their back gardens across the nation.

“My Dad comes from a building background and the business stemmed from being around Dad’s equipment from the time I was a young fella. The idea came to fruition at the beginning of the first lockdown in 2020 when my Dad said that we would build a bar in the garden which then of course grew legs,’’ said Denis. “We were the first company on the market doing the garden bars and prior to lockdown they weren’t really a thing as we don’t have the climate in Ireland. We are trying to accommodate people who want to have a drink in their garden as well as having a good price point on the bars for our customers. “The business is mental! We have two standard models along with a bespoke model. People are going crazy for full blown pubs in their back garden in preparation for the summer. I’m currently working on one which is like an extension to the house,’’ he enthused. In terms of the future of Garden Bars Ireland? “We’re in the process of moving to a warehouse in Rathcoole and I’m feeling very confident about the future of the business. The main focus for us is to keep the brand as close to what it is originally down the line as I don’t want to start varying off into anything that is too different but we will go down other avenues such as office pods and garden structures,’’ concluded Denis ...

“

I’m feeling very confident about the future.

“

We are trying to accommodate people

gardenbarsireland@gmail.com 086 344 7655 www.gardenbarireland.com

Fancy your own Bar in the garden? HEY!! staying in is the new going out!

SHOP NOW

Everyone deserves a little luxury in their home

sales@mcguiganfurniture.com +353 47 80745 www.mcguiganfurniture.com Clontibret, Co. Monaghan, Ireland.

Residential

Furniture

Premium

Bespoke Headboards

Outdoor

Furniture

Updating & Styling

a property...

In conversation with Kerry Hiddleston Words: Emer Kelly

nterior Designer Kerry Hiddleston specialises in both commercial and residential design and her focus is on understanding the client’s needs and delivering a beautiful and practical space with the wow factor. She is also an Interior Designer on RTÉ’s ‘DIYSOS,’ renovation programme and her work has been featured on RTÉ’s ‘Home of the Year,’ as well as in numerous publications. Here, she talks to Build & Renovate about a recent project... “The brief for this project was to update and style a property that had had a big renovation job done on it a few years previously but not completed in terms of decor. The project went very smoothly, massively helped by having very proactive, engaged and helpful clients,’’ said Kerry Hiddleston.

Images: Hiddleston Interiors

“

The clients were lovely to deal with.

“

The project is still ongoing.

“There were a few delays which were/are COVID related. In fact, we have a few rooms awaiting completion as the joinery/painting couldn’t be finished but it’s nearly there.

very convivial atmosphere. It opens out to the garden and has a fabulous garden and it has a fabulous sofa, artwork and a beautiful kitchen,’’ she enthused.

We’ve also been dealing with some UK suppliers and some have stopped delivering to Ireland, elsewhere there have been delays! There was also a leak (legacy issue and the fun of older houses!) and the bathrooms had to be retiled and a room repainted but we got there,’’ enthused Ms Hiddleston.

In terms of Kerry’s overall thoughts on the project? “I loved working on it. The clients were lovely to deal with, with similar taste style and we gelled. It was a pleasure,’’ concluded Kerry Hiddleston.

“The project is still ongoing but all in, taking restrictions out of the equation it has taken us about between two to three months to get this project across the line.”

CONTACT LIST

As to what the home owners think of their home? “They love it. It’s a beautiful home with a mix of original features and contemporary style. I think their kitchen/living room would be their favourite space in the house. It’s the old adage but it’s the heart of the home. They are social and like cooking and entertaining, it has a

INTERIOR DESIGN: Kerry Hiddleston

P: 086-958 2195 W: www.hiddlestondesign.com E: info@hiddlestondesign.com

McHeil Kitchens bring both style and substance to your home

Maurice Hales talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

cHeil Kitchens is a second generation family style business which started from the owner’s Father who built a factory in his own back garden in the 1980’s.

He then trained each of his five sons to work as cabinet makers over the years. His eldest son, Maurice and his wife Stephanie made the decision to set up their own business 15 years ago and haven’t looked back since.

important as 70% of their jobs come from family and friend recommendation of previous clients. “The business has been crazy! We’re getting a lot of work through our social media channels and we’re getting a lot of interaction when we post a job to our social media pages. At the moment, I’m pricing a lot of jobs in advance of hopefully being able to get out and fit the kitchens. People are looking to pay their booking deposit which is good,’’ explained Maurice Hales. “Our lead designer Stephanie is the first point of contact (when a customer contacts us), she will do the first consultation, sign off jobs and help customers with colour, design etc. We as a company offer the full package as in not just kitchen design and fitting out but also electricians, plumbers, tiling, plastering and so forth. I project manage the full project from start to finish with all our tradesmen while our customers sit back and relax! “At the moment, we work all over Dublin and the surrounding areas. Currently we don’t have the capacity to offer a nationwide service.”

They have a large factory for manufacturing all of their kitchens in Blanchardstown which enables them to custom build each kitchen and they also built a 100sq meter showroom in Cherry Orchard to display some of their fabulous kitchens. McHeil Kitchens believe in only using high quality materials on every project and giving each client a high grade finish at an affordable price. They don’t believe cutting on their quality of materials to give a low quality finish as quality lasts! This company brings both style and substance to your home with its ornately detailed in-frame design and numerous accessories. Featuring a superb quality painted finish with visible wood grain you can combine any number of colours. McHeil Kitchen services include the following; Design & Quote service- at each first meeting with measurements the team will discuss the style of kitchen that each client has in

“

The business has been crazy!

mind and go through ideas, plans and layouts to get the team an idea of making your 3D design and getting your quote. This company also offers a full building service where needed with their building team. They have a highly skilled team of tradesmen from plasterers, electricians, plumbers/ gas fitters, tilers, wooden floor specialists etc. They can provide the whole package and will assign each job with their own project manager that will only project manage one job at a time to give each client 100% of their time. Installation- all of McHeil’s Kitchens are fitted by their highly qualified and experienced crafts people. Every kitchen is different but fitting time can range from three to five days depending on any extra works needed. After Care- the after care of their business is the most

“

Green and navy are very popular at the moment.

In terms of kitchen trends that are going to remain popular over the next while? “Green and navy are very popular at the moment. Recently we fitted a forest green kitchen and it was fabulous! Dark navy is really, really popular at the moment as well,’’ imparted Mr Hales. As to advice Maurice would offer the public in advance of them purchasing a kitchen? “Figure out what exactly you want in the kitchen and how best to use the space you have, choose three colours for your kitchen as the colour in the showroom will never be the same as it is in your own house and at least in your own home you are seeing the colour of the kitchen in your home in natural light and ensure you are 100% happy with it,’’ he enthused. As to the future of McHeil Kitchens? “Going forward, I would like to pass the business on to my two sons if they wanted to. It would be nice for them to take the business on and then pass it on to their children. Eventually I would like to build a bigger workshop and continue with the personal touch,’’ concluded Maurice Hales.

Inframe Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchens

Solid Wooden Kitchen mcheilkitchens@gmail.com +353 1 838 6933 +353 85 254 8105 www.mcheilkitchens.ie

Newcastle Blinds excelling in customer service

Rosemarie Murray talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

ewcastle Blinds Ltd is a wholesale manufacturing company established by Noel Murray in 2003 based in Newcastle, County Dublin.

“We supply to retail stores, agents, interior designers and soft furnishing shops, the most recent being all the Colourtrend Stores throughout Ireland. This company prides themselves on a fast, efficient and top quality service to all their customers nationwide. “We’re a family based company, excelling in customer service is a big thing for us. “This is only made possible as we have a fantastic team of people who make This happen for us on a daily basis”, said Rosemarie Murray. “Our most popular seller would be Rollers Blinds because it can an inexpensive option for someone if they are on a budget. A blind can transform a room with an instant pop of colour and lift it to the next level. There is a large range of fabrics to choose from, fabrics available include jacquard, textured weaves and printed fabrics. Roller blinds are controlled by either Spring operated mechanisms which operate using a manual pull or tassel or the ever-popular chain operated system which is available on either the left or right hand side of the blind, and there is a variety of finishes to choose from to compliment the overall look of the window blind. Roller blinds can be motorised, which gives an added touch of luxury as several blinds can be operated by one remote,’’ she enthused. Newcastle Blinds Ltd is strictly a wholesale manufacturer supplying trade only. If, however, you are interested in any of the products from their ranges, don’t hesitate in contacting them by phone or email and the team will put you in touch with an agent or shop near you. “At the luxury end of things, you have Roman blinds beautiful fabrics to choose from to enhance any interior colour scheme for a sleek tailored finish, we can pair curtains and cushions to match for an added touch of elegance. Our retail advisors can help with everything from choosing fabrics to adding performance linings and decorative finishing, plus they’ll take care of measuring and fitting.

Neutral colours are very popular for us as people are longing for a little bit of longevity with their blinds, interior design trends on Instagram and tv shows have influenced people to be bolder with colour and design choice. Faux Woods blinds are also very popular, as they give added security available in a choice of painted finishes and natural woods stains. Practical and moisture-resistant, they can be used in a bathroom or kitchen setting, tapes can be added for a touch of luxury. “The predicted trends to watch for this year are all about creating a comforting and a nurturing home. Like never before we’re looking to create a cocooning space to our home, to escape the outside world. Layers of cuddly textures are a simple and easy trend to incorporate into your home décor. This look can be achieved with different types of natural textures and fabrics choose from cool blues and greys teamed with accents of warmer pinks and browns. This colour palette can be complemented by washed teals and green fabrics are featuring in homes taking inspiration from nature,’’ added Rosemarie. As to the future of Newcastle Blinds? “The future of the business is that our focus will be very much on innovating and keeping up to date with interior trends. Motorised blinds are hugely popular as five sets of blinds can be operated from the one remote. We can supply a hub to your home once installed that you can pair an app to your phone which means you can be anywhere in the world and have your time set for when your blinds go down or come up for added security purposes or you can ask Alexa to operate the blinds as you take it easy at home and relax. Technology is definitely the way forward! There are always new products coming down the line which is always exciting as people are embracing technology into their everyday lives like never before.

“Our retail displays focuses heavily on the appearance of our window blinds, as they are often the first point of contact between our product and the customer. We do an instore displays showcasing all of our blinds and I have designed one for the shop front window that can be easily moved around as the windows in stores are so visually important for us as a company to tell the story of our products and inviting customers to have an instore visit. I think there is going to be a huge desire for people to go back into the shops, as we are all missing the retail experience. We run training courses with our retailers who have displays as to how our products work and that the correct window blind is tailored to meet the customer requirements,’’ concluded Rosemarie Murray.

ROLLER BLINDS

CURTAINS

VERTICAL BLINDS

MOTORISED ROLLER BLINDS

EXPRESSIONS FAUXWOODS

ALUMINIUM VENETIAN BLINDS

ROMAN BLINDS

PLEATED BLINDS

DUAL SHADES

VELUX

sales@newcastleblinds.com www.newcastleblinds.com 01 4587782

Premier Painting continues to paint Cork

all shades of colour! Images: Webpress

Dean Ellis talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

remier Painting is a painting and decorating company based in County Cork. They work in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors throughout Cork.

“I’m painting for more than 12 years and for four of those years I worked in Australia and New Zealand before returning home 18 months ago. I did a lot of work on high end houses in New Zealand and that was a great experience for me as it is there that I learnt how to spray paint to a high standard,’’ said Dean Ellis. “I set the business up in 2019 when I came home and the business has been going well. I’m working on pricing jobs at the moment but there is a lot of work in the pipeline with a good 12 months ahead which is good to see. “Colours that are popular at the moment include various shades of grey which is massive at the moment but I see green coming in a lot lately and I think it is going to be popular over the next year along with your off whites,’’ he enthused. In terms of colours Dean would advise if people are looking for a neutral palette within their home? “You will want to keep the keep the colours light as possible if you’re not sure what you want. Off whites are probably the best option. Recently I advised two clients to go with alabaster for their walls and half alabaster for their ceilings and woodwork; it’s a change from plain white on the ceiling and wood. The furniture fitted in nicely against the neutral wall colour. As to the future of Premier Painting?

“I’m very positive about the future of the business and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s ahead. There is plenty of work out there which should lead to a few good years ahead for me,’’ concluded Dean Ellis.

“

The business has been going well.

“

I see green coming in a lot lately.

Premierpaintingcork@gmail.com 083 361 2824 premierpainting01

Residential

Comercial

Industrial

“

The original dormer windows were stripped back.

A vast

modernisation of a family home in Cork

Dermot Harrington of Cook Architects talks to Build & Renovate Words: Emer Kelly

he owners of this completely renovated property are incredibly lucky to call this fabulous property their home.

Having bought a site in 1993 and built a dormer bungalow, in 2017, they took the bull by the horns and renovated the property inside and out as well as upstairs and downstairs with the Architect over this project being Dermot Harrington of Cook Architects. Founded in 2009 by Architects Dermot Harrington and Paul Carpenter, Cook Architects is an award winning, design led RIAI Architecture Practice based in Cork City. Their portfolio of works vary from high end bespoke houses to multi-housing and commercial fit-out projects. To achieve an outstanding product, Cook Architects provide a full service from planning and architectural design to construction project supervision which includes interior design.

Images: F22 Photography

Their client base is made up of repeat business and projects commissioned through recommendations. Their designs are often bold and contemporary are unpinned by an interplay of imagination and technical rigour, mostly accompanied with an element of surprise in their concept and delivery. The spaces this practice creates are engaging and well used, created by carefully listening and understanding their client’s requirements during the design process. Cook Architects aspire to challenge and exceed the client’s brief and provide innovative and sustainable solutions that are both delightful and spatially inspiring. This practice is excited about the discovery of new materials and new ways of putting things together.

“

A game changer was rendering over the old house’s marble pebble dash.

This renovation project saw a long and detailed list beginning with spaces and aspects alongside what walls could be moved, pushed around or gotten rid of with the roof having to remain. The wish list came down to items like the extent of storage for shoes, jackets, blouses, shirts, trousers and a power supply in the garden for an outdoor Christmas tree. The ‘old traditional,’ living room is the only room that was left in its original state whilst the old front door was repurposed and put on the new shed! “The plans involved part demolition, and substantial opening up/wall removal to allow the adding of a further 60sqm at ground level to the existing 175sqm,’’ said Dermot Harrington. “The project kicked off in January 2017 and it was wrapped up in August. The family moved out for a period of two months prior to that Easter in a pre-planned arrangement. “The total renovation and extension saw the space grow by 30% but energy costs haven’t increased and have possibly gone down. All of the original dormer roofs insulation was stripped out and replaced with high density rigid insulation and new standards of air-tightness assured with draughts upstairs were banished. The minimal introduction of LED lighting (Cork Lighting & Interiors was used for most products) created atmosphere in the finished product,” enthused Mr Harrington.

“

The clients are so proud of the finish.

“The original dormer windows were stripped back, re-insulated and clad externally in zinc while the main house’s fore and aft roof slopes original concrete tiles remained.

“A new large Velux roof light went in the front over the hall and stairs and floods both the hall and expanded landing in light and solar heat gain. A compact porch was added to the front also with zinc trim and all the house’s glazing was upgraded using a top wood framed product from the Danish company, Svarre Vrogum,’’ he imparted. “The rear opening up and extension saw the garden room with large, sleek and silently sliding Vrogum windows added and it’s single storey with a four degree roof pitch and five meter exposed painted glulam timber beans which were sourced in Austria, in for support with a glazed section in the joint between the old house and new room to let shafts of light penetrate.

“A game changer was rendering over the old house’s marble pebble dash on the exterior walls and then painting the quality plaster job in a dark hue. The clients are so proud of the finish and they love the space, the outside garden and living space feels like one, it’s a relaxing space and easy to keep clutter free,’’ concluded Dermot Harrington.

CONTACT LIST ARCHITECT

KITCHEN

P: 021-4311260 W: www.cookarchitects.ie E: info@cookarchitects.ie

P: 021-7334098 M: 086-2922929 W: www.nicholasmoodykitchens.com E: nick@nicholasmoodykitchens.com

BUILDERS

ZINC ROOF & TRIM

LIGHTING

P: 085-7364376 W: www.weatherseam.ie E: info@weatherseam.ie

P: 021-4317522 W: www.corklighting.com E: sales@corklighting.com

Dermot Harrington, Cook Architects

Neil Hayes & Patrick O’Regan, Carrigbel Construction Ltd P: Neil: 086-8671447 P: Patrick: 086-8396164 W: www.carrigbelconstruction.ie E: info@carrigbelconstruction.ie

Nick Moody, Nicholas Moody Kitchens

Weatherseam,

LANDSCAPING Noranne Scott,

P: 087-9300497 W: www.sld.ie E: noranne@sld.ie

Cork Lighting & Interiors

Shane Harte Construction

are constantly pushing the boundaries Images: Webpress

Shane Harte talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

hane Harte Construction is a construction company based in Carlow delivering high quality finish to bespoke one off builds for over 15 years.

Shane Harte Construction has and is continuing to build some of the finest homes in the South East. The company provides clients with an individual innovative and honest perspective of their project. They continually strive to challenge the status quo of project delivery.

“

“We keep our on-going projects tight numbered as we like to be hands on and keep a good eye on each build so you get the personal touch with our company. Our Client’s vision is always our main priority. The work is a labour of love and attention to detail is key. We enjoy transforming a greenfield site to a one off bespoke home, delivering a fantastic turnkey finish. We keep communication open from breaking ground to move in day. “There is way more to building a house nowadays than there was 10 years ago. The building regulations are changing every two to three years and we’re constantly pushing the boundaries with what we do,’’ enthused Mr Harte. In terms of the future for Shane Harte Construction?

“Things are looking bright for us and we have a good name locally. We have some exiting new projects coming up so be sure to follow the progress on our Instagram page. We have a highly skilled and dedicated team; They are paramount to our ongoing success. Team work makes the dream work,” concluded Shane Harte.

Our Client’s vision is always our main priority.

By staying ahead of the curve and constantly evolving their business, Shane Harte Construction has become one of the leading contractors of bespoke one off builds in the South East. The company has an understanding of modern design, modern construction methods and in turn can provide for a bespoke one off dream home for all their clients. The company prides themselves on being committed to delivering an excellent, courteous service with open communication while staying on time and on budget. They take great pride in delivering a professionally managed project, making the process stress free and seamless for all parties. They act as a catalyst in bringing the clients vision to a reality. “I served my time as a bricklayer and I got into the industry that way. I built my first house in 2004 and this gave me the drive to start building one off houses. During the recession, I was working with the local council in Carlow doing extensions and bathroom renovations and then I got back into the one off build side of things in 2014,’’ said Shane Harte.

“

Team work makes the dream work.

shaneharteconstruction@gmail.com

www.shaneharteconstruction.com

0879948124

Bespoke New Builds Extensions Renovations

LLOW US FO

product expansion with plans

A crisp

in the pipeline

Images: Webpress

In conversation with Aidan Stell by Emer Kelly

“I’ve been involved in the gate automation business for 25 years and I was looking for an opportunity whereby we were working with steel gates for the last so many years and the style and trends have changed to contemporary with a big demand in sheeted gates. I came across Aligates on Instagram (last June) by chance and really liked how crisp the product looked,’’ said Aidan Stell. “When we went over to the UK to meet with Aligates they explained to us the benefits of their system in comparison to other systems and there were a lot of progressive ideas and unlimited design options as well as being a very innovative company.

ligates are a company based in the UK providing bespoke Aluminium gates for every occasion with exclusive Irish distributors Bespoke Aluminium Gates.ie based in Ireland. Aligates are custom Aluminium gates specialists ensuring the highest quality of materials and craftsmanship at every stage of your project. The process is: for the assembly, they use their own extrusions from the mill. On arrival, the aluminium goes through a seven stage dipping process to clean, etch and polymer seal the extrusions both inside and out. This gives protection against the elements and forms the base for the perfect powder coating process. After this, the extrusions are then dried and sent through our powder coating nozzles. Once coated, the extrusions then pass through their 24m oven to achieve the finish that is guaranteed to keep colour within 2 pan-tones for more than 15 years for all architectural finishes (structural). Once coated, a selection of the extrusions then go on to be wood grained using the sublimation process. This produces more than 30 variations which also get the 15 year guarantee. The process to produce the gates then heads to be cut to length with an accuracy of 0.1mm. Once cut to length, the profiles are then CNC machined for all the fixing points and any options ordered. The next stage is to assemble the gates using a screw and coldweld polyurethane adhesive process like that of the prestige car market. The automation strengthening and corners are all reinforced and bonded at the same time. The cold weld corners have more than 180kg/cm2 (2,600lbs per square inch) of holding power, stronger than traditional welded gates. The curing time to full strength is two to three days. The advantages of this process are the exceptionality of the finished gate and the ability to coat the product fully inside and out which gives a superior and more durable paint finish over other processes.

“

The gates are stronger straighter and lighter than steel and wood and virtually zero maintenance.

“

When people see the product, it gains momentum all the time.

The whole process is done within the one company with excellent quality standards with ideas for big, big expansion in the next few years. Bespoke Aluminium Gates.ie supply mainly to the Gate Automation Sector and welcome new trade partners enquiries. “There are great improvements with the design of Aluminium gates. One of the biggest improvements in terms of Aluminium gates is probably the sliding gate with the hidden motor so basically you have a minimalist gate without a motor stuck on the back of the gate. Customers and Architects alike have been looking for a product that’s something different,’’ he enthused.

“We’ve made good sales since taking on this role and the product is really high end with a growing customer base. When people see the product, it gathers momentum all of the time.’’ In terms of the future of Aligates on Irish shores? “We can give people something that they haven’t seen before which isn’t possible going down the standard route. This product can be personalised and it isn’t a limited service. It’s clean, modern, contemporary and safer especially where you have young children around. The gates are a lot lighter so they can be powered with a lot less power in a safer manner.

“This product has crispness that nobody else has and it is something different which this company can give the client in abundance. This is a piece of furniture at your entrance, it’s not just a gate,’’ concluded Aidan Stell.

DT Office Designs reacting

to growing inquiries Images: Webpress

Dean Walker talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

T Office Designs focus has been on commercial office interior products, furniture and acoustic treatments but over the past 12 months with the effect of Covid 19 on the construction industries we have had to react to the growing inquiries we have had from our client base for home offices for their staff that had to turn to working from home instead of the office.

it comes to making your home office work, it is important to consider your seating position as well as the table size to ensure that your desk is correct to fit your needs. Once you are set up in your seating position correctly with the support in your back of your seat correct and you have line of sight with your screen correct to where you are comfortable your desk and everything else will fit in around that,

“

It is important to consider your seating position.

Our design team have come up with some great new ideas and products such as home office desking, office chairs and acoustic solutions to help with Reverb for online calls. The home acoustic wall panels and desk screens are a great product to use when you are working from home especially for families who are juggling working and home schooling, the acoustic screens help to block out surrounding noise, reduce echo and help concentration, we can also personalise the screens by either printing custom designs or photos onto the panels or cutting the screens into shapes that suit the home office space. This along with other new product lines enables us to offer standard and fully bespoke tailored options for your home officeexplains both Dean & Terence. As with all offices, the chair is one of the most important parts of the set up as you need a good chair for ergonomics. So, when

“

The home acoustic screens are a great product.

“

I think the future is going to be a happy medium/split between working from home and working in the office

enthused Dean

info@dtproducts.ie 00353 1 2150460 www.dtoﬃcedesigns.ie

VADO Introduce Tablet iO V

ADO are proud to reveal the launch of their brandnew Tablet iO collection offering a choice of four beautifully designed thermostatic shower valves, the latest in safe showering technology. With all the benefits of VADO’s popular Tablet valve collection, the new Tablet iO includes a sleek integrated shower kit to provide the ultimate showering experience the whole family can enjoy. Angela Neve, VADO’s Product and Marketing Director, comments “Both chic and versatile we wanted to design a collection that perfectly blends style statement with exceptional functionality, whilst celebrating the best in British design engineering. Whether you opt for curved edges or crisp lines, Tablet iO complements contemporary and traditional bathrooms alike.”

VADO Tablet iO Altitude 3 Outlet, 3 Handle Concealed Thermostatic Valve with Integrated Outlet and Single Function Mini Kit RRP €550.00

A touch of luxury can be found in the collections use of ergonomic soft-turn handles, and its integral hand shower that creates a clean-cut silhouette. Whilst the option of two or three outlets allows the user to create a bathroom that caters to their family’s needs. Always innovative and leading the way, VADO have included their signature thermostatic safety feature preventing temperature fluctuations in addition to their exclusive ‘All flow’ function delivering water to one outlet independently or all outlets simultaneously creating an indulgent sensory experience. Whilst VADO’s undoubted quality and 15-year guarantee means customers truly can relax whilst immersing themselves in showering luxury. The new Tablet iO helps to create a functional bathroom living space as well as an invigorating and tranquil haven to start and unwind each day. Thanks to its compact and minimalistic design not only will Tablet iO remain a timeless feature in the bathroom but VADO are also able to offer an exclusive collection of coordinating products that can be mixed and matched for a touch of personal style.

VADO Tablet iO Notion 2 Outlet, 2 Handle Concealed Thermostatic Valve with Integrated Outlet and Single Function Mini Kit RRP €500.00

The VADO range is available from Earthridge International Ltd., Dowdstown, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Tel: (01) 628 6845. Browse the full VADO collection at www.earthridge.ie For press queries, please contact Sarah Clarke, Revolve Marketing & PR, sarah@revolve.ie or call 083 410 9045

r 1 5 yea

gua

ra nte

space

It’s all

about that

Images: Webpress

according to

The Attic Company

Tim Sparsis talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

he Attic Company has been in business for more than 15 years converting hundreds of attics both in Ireland and abroad.

This company offers many different bespoke solutions depending on the space in your attic. Their core team are all inhouse and are not external contractors meaning there is a line of direct communication between the customer and the team at The Attic Company at all times. The Attic Company also maintains a very good working relationship with the best external contractors, guaranteeing the highest quality of plumbing, plastering and electrical work. This company offers the following services; Attic conversions: A standard attic conversion to a three bedroom takes approximately two weeks from the start date. Their in-house Architect/ Engineer visits the site and draws up the plans for your specific attic and then applies for planning permission (if needed) this takes about 10-12 weeks for planning to be approved. The Attic Company is fully insured and all of their work is compliant with building safety regulations and is checked by their Engineer following the job and the client will then be issued with an Engineer’s Certificate of Compliance upon completion so you can be assured that their craftsmanship is of the highest standard and safety. The Attic Company offers many different solutions depending on the size and shape of your attic- this can include anything from intuitive storage spaces to spacious double room en-suites. All attics are fitted with two steel RSJ’s to insure safety and stability. All renovations are insulated with NSAI approved Synthesia Poliuretan Spray which provides the equivalent insulation of 270mm of regular glass wool. This is the best thermal insulation on the market. Their standard conversions come with three Fakro/Velux triple glazed windows depending on preference. This company also covers all carpets and hardwood surfaces from start to finish so there is no residue or damage when the job is completed.

“

They are a very good financial investment.

All debris is removed and disposed of off-site in a skip. After every job, they hire a cleaning company to do a thorough four hour deep clean of the entire house. Wardrobes (built to measure): Bedroom wardrobe and storage building and installation for various sized spaces and requirements carried out on your demands, only the best materials are used and the finest craftsmanship. Wood Flooring: The Attic Company also offers hard-wood flooring installation. This can be carried out whilst converting your attic space or if it is a different room in the house, it can be finished upon completion of your attic conversion!

“The business is going from strength to strength and since COVID hit, everyone is dying for extra space in terms of an extra room, office space or a bedroom and the last year has been incredibly busy for us generating extra space in people’s homes,’’ said Tim Sparsis.

“Attic conversions are about half the price of an extension and they are a very good financial investment. “We’re based in Lucan so we would work all over Leinster,’’ added Mr Sparsis. In terms of advice Tim would offer anyone considering converting their attic? “I would advise people to have a look and see what they want to achieve with the space, consider your budget and how much you want to spend on the conversion and the windows and insulation are the two key things when it comes to your attic conversion so that is where you want to and need to spend your money as it will have a knock on effect for the entire house,’’ he imparted. As to the future for The Attic Company? “We would like to expand and get more crews on board. The more experience we gain then the more design options we can offer to potential customers whilst adapting their house to how they would like it,’’ concluded Tim Sparsis.

“

It will have a knock on effect for the entire house.

info@theatticcompany.ie 089 980 5713 www.theatticcompany.ie

Leading

Attic Conversion Specialists

in Ireland

Standard Attic Conversion

Side Dormer Attic Conversion

Rear Dormer Attic Conversion

Gable Attic Conversion

Expansion on the horizon for Furniture Repair & Assembly Ltd

Walsh’s Images: Webpress

Shane Walsh talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

alsh’s Furniture Repair & Assembly Ltd repair and assemble furniture in customers homes and commercial premises, a convenient alternative to costly replacements.

mindset and we want to build on the legacy of keeping our customers, clients and partners happy on a every occasion,’’ said Shane Walsh. “It’s an extremely satisfying job and we all have a vision as to how furniture should look so we give our best opinion as to how it should be repaired.

They specialise in repair of upholstery, leather, timber and furniture assembly. Offering an in home or business inspection, a detailed quotation and a professional repairer or assembly. In the COVID-19 climate that we are working in today, our focus is also on providing a safe working environment for our staff and clients. At Walsh’s Furniture Repair & Assembly Ltd, the team pride themselves on providing skilled workmanship, top of the

“

It’s an extremely satisfying job.

range replacement parts and excellent communication skills on each and every job. They understand and care about the importance of having the best home or business and ensure that your furniture is treated with the utmost care and professional manner. The team provides national coverage and comes to your home or place of business to conduct a full repair or assembly. The company’s services include; general furniture repairs such as frame repairs, leather repairs, upholstery repairs, colour loss, scratch/scuff repairs, electric recliners and foam replacement. Furniture assembly such as flat pack assembly, bedroom furniture, dining room furniture, sitting room furniture including media centres. Garden furniture assembly such as children’s activities, climbing frame, garden sheds, garden furniture, barbecues and garden buildings.

“

Things have worked out very well.

Walsh’s Furniture Repair & Assembly Ltd provide service for all furniture stores and retailers across Ireland. “All my life I have had a great interest in taking things apart and putting them back together and trying to improve them. I am passionate about my company and my staff have the same

With the help of all my customers, clients and staff, the business has thrived and expanded over the last 12 months. Things have worked out very well and I’m very happy with how the business is progressing. We’re extremely busy and we are very confident that our business will continue to grow quickly, because of the quality service we provide, concluded Shane Walsh.

info@walshsfurniturerepair.ie +353 (0) 91 373 132 www.walshsfurniturerepair.ie

• •

opportunities

Exciting

coming down the line for

Binshed

Images: Webpress

In conversation with the dynamic duo known as Luke & Jonnie by Emer Kelly

inshed are an Irish owned company with their centre of operations being in Dublin. This company offers storage solutions for your wheelie bins from single units through to secure storage for five bins. They also build and supply bike sheds, log stores and combination units. Their wheelie sheds come in colours which blend with the environment. They are sturdy and able to stand up to the extremes of Irish weather. Binshed deliver nationwide with their aim being to provide you with an aesthetically pleasing, uniquely designed piece of garden furniture for your home, school or business premises. This company is happy to help you achieve your perfect store unit, please reach out to them with any custom requests. Their binsheds are designed so that your wheelie bins storage are hidden from sight while still providing ready access. The storage units are made from FSC sustainable resources and have narrow air vents so that unpleasant odours are never a problem. These products are delivered with all fixtures and fittings along with clear instruction for home assembly! Binsheds storage units are suitable for any outdoor area where rubbish and recyclable waste is stored. Whether you are purchasing wheelie bin storage for a private home, a block of flats, a school or college or a private business; their free standing wheelie bin storage units will not only improve the overall appearance of your bin storage areas but will provide you with peace of mind. The units are lockable and so only accessible with a key. The binsheds come in different sizes from single units for storing one wheelie bin, through to Quint units for five bins. Wheelie bin sheds can be customised to suit your individual requirements.Should you be undecided about which option is right for your business or home, please contact this company and their professional customer service team will be happy to

“

Our customers are our priority.

assist you. These products are built for durability ensuring a long life for your bin storage units. The gas struts which operate the lids are constructructed from stainless steel, which ensures they will not rust. All nails, hinges and locks are galvanised to prevent corrosion. Added to that, hinges, locks and other

“

We started off small.

parts necessary for assembly are included in the unit price. Binshed also provide flat pack units which have been shipped to Belfast, Donegal, Cork and Clare. The flatpack takes 30 minutes to assemble and includes a guided tutorial video to help you each step of the way. Their flat pack triple unit package deal starts at €419.99 delivered right to your doorstep. This package includes; a flatpack unit, galvanised hardware and two years service warranty. This company uses high tech software for recording and organising customer orders and for internal communication within the business. In choosing Binshed you are choosing the very best wheelie bin storage company in Ireland. “I was living abroad for four years working as a carpenter and my business partner was working in Ireland as an IT Engineer and he lost his job due to COVID and I had to come home and we met when we were working in a carpentry manufacturing company and we noticed a gap in the market for binsheds so we then went off and set up our company through putting our heads together,’’ said Luke & Jonnie. “We started off small and it’s blown up since! The business is going a lot better than we expected. People are spending a lot more time in their gardens and they want everything neat and tidy. We are getting calls every day through our website and our social media channels. We also have two vans on the road and a crew of five people working for us. “These units look gorgeous in a garden and we are very proud of our products. Our most popular colours at the moment are black ash and urban slate grey at the moment,’’ enthused Luke & Jonnie. As to the future of Binshed?

“Our customers are our priority and word of mouth has helped us a lot as well. Going forward, we would like to expand the product range and increase our strong customer service,’’ concluded Luke & Jonnie.

Triple Wheelie Bin Shed

Easy Access

Neat & Tidy

info@binshed.ie 01 908 1212 www.binshed.ie

> SHOP NOW

Compact & Versatile

A tight crew for

KC Decor

Shane Cummins talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

“

We would like to continue with the work that we do.

C Decor are a professional painting and decorating company based in Dublin. “The business is a mix of all types of work!

Our bread and butter would be the work that we do for Fingal County Council but we also do a lot of renovation work and new builds as well as private work,’’ said Shane Cummins. “We work on a range of developments from large scale new builds to small scale extensions and renovations as well as property maintenance. We pride ourselves on the work we do always leaving a high end finish on every job. “We work all over Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow. Over the last 12 months we were in the lucky position that we could continue to work due to our work through Fingal County Council so that kept us busy throughout the strict lockdowns,’’ added Mr Cummins. “Up until Christmas last year we were very, very busy. Our reputation is very important to us and its stands to us as alot of the work we get is through word of mouth. We have a good, hardworking team working with us as well.

“

Going forward, we would like to continue with the work that we do, with the jobs that we get and repeat business we will always be kept busy, but we always welcome new jobs and opportunities. We like to build relationships with those we do business with which allows us to keep a good circle of contacts. The crew is tight and professional that’s why we’re always kept busy, concluded Shane Cummins.

“

Our reputation is very important to us.

DECOR

Professional Painting & Decorating

kc.decor@yahoo.ie 0876148417 #shane_cummins87

A one stop shop for all of your

interior needs!

Seamie Walsh talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

“

We’re feeling positive enough about the future.

eamie Walsh Interiors established in 1974 in Ardee, County Louth is a one stop shop for all your interior needs.

our inhouse Interior Designer here to coordinate colours and paints for people it’s great.

They supply fabric and leather suites, dining room and bedroom furniture, occasional furniture, mirrors, pictures, lamps, ready made curtains, curtain poles, lighting, respa beds and mattresses, cane furniture, rugs and wallpaper.

“The business is going well despite the lockdown. We offer a nationwide service and we have done work in every county in Ireland at this stage and a lot of the work would either be done for people either originally from Ardee and they have moved or they are the family of people from Ardee.

Their services include upholstery recovery service, delivery service on purchase and recovery, qualified in-house Interior Designer and custom made sitting room suites. “We started manufacturing bespoke sitting room suites in 1974 and we’re still manufacturing them to this day,’’ said Seamie Walsh. “The majority of people come out to the showroom to avail of a full interior service and to view our wide range of products. The showroom is in the countryside, not the town so people have to travel to come to us. It is also great having Cody (McEvoy)

“

Mostly down through the years our work has come through word of mouth,’’ enthused Mr Walsh. As to the future of Seamie Walsh Interiors?

“We’re feeling positive enough about the future and the next thing we’re pushing is our online shop. We’re working on our online store and whilst people aren’t going to purchase a suite of furniture without seeing it in person, they will purchase curtains, cushions, picture frames and so forth and occasional furniture,’’ concluded Seamie Walsh.

We offer a nationwide service.

seamiewalsh@hotmail.com (041) 685 3761 www.seamiewalshinteriors.ie

Town Parks, Ardee, A92 W640, County Louth

House Architects

The

are all about

innovative design approaches Josh Maguire talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly Images: Webpress

he House Architects practice provides an architectural service focused on the design of homes for families. Based in Dublin and with offices in Kilkenny and Clare, they can service clients nationwide. The practice is RIAI registered and was founded in 2010 by Josh & Viv Maguire with the aim of providing a specialist architectural home design service. The practice is acutely conscious of the central role that the house occupies as the stage for family life through their professional practice as well as their own personal experience, and this informs their approach to every project. The team of expert residential Architects are passionate about helping our clients to crystallise their vision for their dream home, whether that be through extension and renovation of their existing home or the design of a new self-build home on their own site. The House Architects are conscious that the essence of a great family home is an architectural design and layout that meets the needs of all family members. In many cases Ireland’s standard housing stock, or even the ‘off the plans’ self-build houses, do not meet the needs of modern family daily living or reflect the family life cycle from infant through junior, teenage and mature years. The practice considers that the process of developing a design that best meets their clients own ‘family’ needs is a collaborative process. They have worked with many clients to guide them through the design process and to help them tease out the best bespoke solution for their project, within the limitations of the existing site, bringing light and space into the house along with your own personality and style, within their budget. This approach ensures that budgetary considerations are equally balanced with design objectives. The team generally strive to achieve the maximum impact solutions even with modest budgets, through innovative design approaches, such as floor level changes, bespoke rooflights, clearstory windows and materials choices. The House Architects provide expert architectural service for self-build one-off house design, home renovations and house extensions. “From an early stage, I always had an interest in residential design. The design of bespoke homes for private clients offers the opportunity to work at varying different scales from very large self-build projects to bespoke alterations of existing houses. As an architect I enjoy the architectural design freedom that working on private commissions offers.’’ said Josh Maguire.

“When we are engaging with private clients, we are actually working with them to tease out the ideal architectural design solution for them, for that particular brief, for that particular site and for the family unit, and that is an enjoyable process.’’ “Fundamentally the quality of the design is crucial to any architectural project. it is particularly important for a residential project that the design responds well to its orientation, and the surrounding landscape, as well as how the spaces within the house work with each other,’’ enthused Mr Maguire. “Our clients often have very different style preferences for both interiors and exteriors. As their architects we strive to develop a bespoke design that is unique and which reflects the clients’ personalities and preferences as much as our own design style.’’ “The most significant evolution in home design is the increasing role of the kitchen/dining/lounge space as the heart of the home, where many activities and interactions take place. When designing a self-build house, it is essential that this space is well considered. The main driver for our renovation/extension clients is to adapt older house layouts to achieve this modern open-plan family living space.’’ As to the future of Architecture in Ireland? “As noted, the spatial qualities required of a modern home have evolved. In addition, the construction standards required have advanced significantly, with low energy A-rated homes and innovative technology such as Air-towater heat pumps now the norm. In addition, we are helping our clients to embrace the opportunity to introduce more innovative and contemporary materials, such as copper, zinc, stone, timber and acrylic render and innovative construction methods, in order to create bespoke homes, which reflect their own character and personality. “People are becoming more aware of the life cycle of a house and the need for the layout and design of spaces to work for the family in the early stages, while being able to evolve to cater for teenagers and mature years, with spaces for home-working, home gym, playroom and multifunctions space whose use may change over time. These trends are being reflected in the architectural design of good homes now. Combined, these developments and trends offer the opportunity for good architectural design to yield comfortable, functional, and flexible open-plan homes for the future that can adapt to changing demands.’’ In terms of the future for The House Architects? “We are delighted to have recently set-up satellite offices in Kilkenny and Clare which will allow us provide a great architectural service to clients in the midlands and beyond. We are also expanding our team in Merrion Square to continue to cater for increasing demand for high quality architectural services like ours in the greater Dublin area.’’

Residential Architects & Designers

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More and more people are recognising the role that good architectural design can play in helping to make their house a home that is unique to them. We have worked with many happy clients in the past and we are looking forward to taking on many more exciting projects in 2021. concluded Josh Maguire.

josh@thehousearchitects.ie 01 507 9990 087 978 2289 www.thehousearchitects.com 79 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2 D02 TN27

Endless Possibilities future of

for the

Kable Kings

Images: Webpress

Dave Dooley talks to Build & Renovate by Emer Kelly

aving worked on large networks domestic and internationally, Michael & Dave are putting their experience together to lead the way in home and business cable networking. Supplying smart products and offering solutions powered by IoT.

“Large broadband providers are under pressure to provide aftercare services and customers are facing huge delays. We can offer an efficient consultancy service and resolve ongoing issues clients have with their services.” In terms of how the business is going? “Thankfully, it has been going well. It is a young business and we are incredibly pleased with the pace that it’s progressing. We pride ourselves on having satisfied customers and based on our reviews it’s going in the right direction. We are based in Dublin and provide our services throughout the county and surrounding areas. As the business grows, our service area will hopefully expand too,’’ imparted Dave. In terms of the future for the Kable Kings? “Like all business owners we hope our business has a successful future and we remain positive. Our services are built around the Internet of Things (IoT) home offices, smart televisions, gaming, smart home devices; so the possibilities for the future are endless,’’ concluded Dave Dooley.

They strive to create the optimal experience for the client to get the most from their television and broadband provider. Their ethos is to please the client, solve any issue and offer authentic advice. Together, they are the Kable Kings! “The business was set up in May 2019. I was in the Caribbean and Michael was with a major broadband provider in Ireland,’’ said Dave Dooley. “The brainchild of Kable Kings came about over a long distance phone conversation between Michael & I about a great business idea back in Ireland. After working together for several years in the past and having remained friends we knew instantly that it was going to be the right move for both of us and we have not looked back since.

“

We offer an efficient consultancy service.

“With a combined experience of more than 30 years, we have united our expertise and are covering all areas of television and Broadband solutions. Our most popular service given the current climate is home networking and WI-FI solutions. People are at home a lot more, working from home, studying and investing in their homes. They need a strong stable connection to support their whole property,’’ he enthused. “Television installation/ mounting is another of our favourite services. Providing optimal viewing experience by using a range of fixed or full motion brackets. We see instant improvements to homes, increasing safety and giving a sleek modern finish to any space. “We install FreeSat & Saorview television subscriptions. FreeSat and Saorview is a brilliant service of popular national and international stations for a once off payment.

“

We see instant improvements to homes.

info@kablekings.ie Mick: 083 309 4757 Dave: 083 309 1065 www.kablekings.ie

TV & Broadband Specialists

Freesat & Saorview Installation

Smart Home Technicians

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TV Installations

info@alynchconstruction.ie 041 982 5868 086 171 1414 | 086 809 6160 www.alynchconstruction.ie

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