The search for Northern Ireland’s House of the Year has reached its climax, with judges Jane Larmour, James Fairley, and Patricia McGinnis narrowing down 15 unique homes to just five finalists. The Grand Final, filmed at Custom House Square, will see one of these exceptional homes crowned as the winner. Presented by design expert and television personality Laurence Llewelyn Bowen, the final episode is set to air on Monday, 28th October at 8pm on BBC iPlayer and BBC One Northern Ireland.
Let’s take a closer look at the five homes vying for the prestigious title of 2024 House of the Year.
Melmore House:
Located in County Down, Melmore House is a detached period property dating back to 1855. Owners Fiona and Jonathan have transformed this historic home into a modern family abode with stunning views overlooking Belfast Lough. Blending traditional features with a contemporary aesthetic, the house exudes a Parisian apartment vibe with its rich detail and flair.
Scott’s Farmhouse:
Situated in the picturesque Clogher Valley in rural Tyrone, Scott’s Farmhouse is a traditional country farmhouse filled with antiques and art. Built in 1923, this charming abode is now home to Scott, who has lovingly preserved its original features while infusing each room with its own unique character. The farmhouse exudes a romantic, relaxed, and peaceful ambiance, reflecting Scott’s passion for historical properties.
Hampton House:
Formerly a gentleman’s residence in East Belfast, Hampton House is a neo-classic property steeped in history. Owners Katie and Johnny have restored this listed building, originally designed by renowned architect Thomas Jackson in 1862, to its former glory. The restoration project seamlessly blends old and new, preserving period features while creating a modern family home within this historic mansion.
Art House:
Perched high in the hills overlooking Belfast, Art House is a contemporary new-build property that doubles as a home and art gallery. Owner Heather’s vision for her dream forever home took ten years and three architects to realize. The result is a modern structure with a black barn exterior and museum-like interior featuring high ceilings, polished concrete floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Belfast.
Bijoux in Belfast:
Donna and Alan have transformed their rented property in East Belfast, infusing it with their unique decorative style over the past decade. With free rein from their landlord, the couple has created a cozy and eclectic space filled with vintage pieces and modern touches. Every corner of the house reflects Donna’s artistic flair, with the backyard even boasting a ‚Belfast Bali Beach Hut‘ for a touch of whimsy.
As the competition heats up, each of these five homes brings something special to the table, showcasing the diverse and creative architectural landscape of Northern Ireland. Tune in to the final episode to see which of these remarkable homes will be crowned Northern Ireland’s House of the Year for 2024.