Inside Series 12 of RTÉ’s Home of the Year: Design, Innovation and Personal Style
Series 12 of Home of the Year (HOTY) has returned to RTÉ One, offering a curated glimpse into some of Ireland’s most exceptional residences. This season is particularly poignant as it showcases the final episodes featuring the late Hugh Wallace, who joins judges Amanda Bone and Siobhan Lam in evaluating properties across the country.
The competition challenges homeowners to impress the panel based on three core criteria: individuality, functionality, and clever design. Each home is scored out of 10, with the highest combined scores from each episode advancing to the grand final in April to determine the series winner.
Standout Properties from Series 12
From sustainable homesteads to high-spec urban renovations, this series highlights a diverse range of architectural styles and interior philosophies.
Modern New Builds and Vernacular Homes
In Co Kildare, Mike and Steve have transformed their 2022 new build into a modern, chic residence. By updating light fittings, doors, and panelling, and investing in professional landscaping for both the front and back gardens, the couple created a space that balances luxury with everyday practicality. Their transformation was so thorough that neighbors questioned if the home followed a different design than other builds in the estate.
Meanwhile, in Co Roscommon, Sarah and Gerard built a bright, modern vernacular home on the site of Gerard’s granduncle and grandaunt’s former homestead. After moving back from Dubai, the couple designed the space to be functional for their three children—Sylvie, Willow, and Oscar—while ensuring the property blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
Urban Renovations in Dublin
Dublin has seen two distinct approaches to interior design this season. Aisling transformed a neutral-palette home into a vibrant space characterized by splashes of yellow and pink, adding personal touches to an already well-conditioned property.
In a more structural overhaul, Esther and Robyn purchased an empty Dublin home in 2019. Their renovation occurred in two phases: first, stripping the home to its bones to achieve an A2 BER Rating, and second, adding a two-story steel-clad extension. The result is an opulent yet comfortable blend of traditional and contemporary design.
Sustainable Living in Kerry
Toni and Fionán’s home in Co Kerry, completed in 2023, serves as a contemporary hub for their family. The open-plan design reflects their experiences traveling and working together. Beyond the architecture, the couple has established a sustainable homestead, producing their own honey from bees and eggs from chickens to create a nourishing environment for their son.
Key Takeaways from the Competition
- Judging Criteria: Homes are scored on a 10-point scale focusing on individuality, functionality, and clever design.
- Sustainability Trends: The inclusion of A2 BER ratings and active homesteading indicates a shift toward energy efficiency and self-sufficiency.
- Personalization: Whether through bold color palettes or structural extensions, the winning entries prioritize making a house feel like a personal home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the judges for Home of the Year Series 12?
The judging panel consists of Amanda Bone, Siobhan Lam, and the late Hugh Wallace.
When is the Home of the Year grand final?
The grand final takes place in April, where the top-scoring homeowners from the episodes compete for the title.
What makes a home successful in the eyes of the judges?
The judges look for a balance of clever design, high functionality, and a strong sense of individuality that reflects the homeowners’ personalities.
As the competition heads toward its conclusion, Series 12 continues to demonstrate how thoughtful design and personal storytelling can transform a living space into a perform of art.
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