DIY SOS Transforms Walsh Island Home for Harte Family
A Offaly family caring for three children with autism received a fully renovated and accessible home following a nine-day community build featured on RTÉ’s DIY SOS: The Big Build Ireland, rte.ie reported. Baz Ashmawy and a team of volunteers overhauled the Walsh Island property for Damien and Hazel Harte and their children, Ollie, Meadow, and Noah, addressing severe structural issues and spatial limitations that previously compromised daily care.
The family’s previous residence presented significant hurdles for the household. Noah, six, has Global Developmental Delay, an intellectual disability, and is non-verbal, experiencing daily emotional meltdowns and running off without warning due to a lack of danger awareness. The family’s house was a G-rated cold property plagued by dampness, mould, and ongoing leaks, while its layout failed to accommodate the children’s sensory and emotional needs. Professional guidance from Noah’s psychologist initially prompted the family to purchase the home, but repair costs and structural complications created persistent setbacks.
Over nine days, volunteers and build professionals reconfigured the property to create a safe environment. Teknabuild served as the build team, with interior design handled by Kerry Hiddleston of Hiddleston Interior Design and garden design managed by Natalia Kryszczynska of Creative Garden Design. Structural engineering was overseen by Hoctor Smyth, while Kirby Group Engineering provided lead electrical work alongside contributions from Kraftic and AXIS Architecture.
Project Suppliers and Community Contributions
The nine-day transformation relied on extensive material donations and logistical support from national brands and local businesses. Appliance suppliers included Beko Ireland and Powercity, while Crown Paints and Pat McDonald Paints supplied decorating materials. Insulation and building supplies were delivered by Gyproc & Isover Ireland, Unilin Insulation, and TJ O’Mahony, with windows and doors furnished by Buckley Windows & Doors and Palladio Doors.
The Harte family are raising three children with autism, including six-year-old Noah, who also has Global Developmental Delay and an intellectual disability. The #DIYSOS team takes on the task of transforming the family home into a safe, practical and supportive space that can… pic.twitter.com/WAz0yAGdir
Local enterprises and specialized contractors also supported the build. Tullamore Court Hotel, Supermacs locations in Tullamore and Edenderry, and Barry’s Tea provided catering for the volunteer workforce. Heavy plant hire and transport logistics were managed by local firms including Kieran Plant & Garden Solutions, Denis Plant Hire, and Cocoman Haulage & Grab Hire. Specialized sensory requirements for Noah were supported through equipment supplied by Total Sensory Solutions Ltd.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Walsh Island Build
How can viewers watch the Harte family episode?
The episode detailing the Walsh Island build is available to stream back on the RTÉ Player.
What specific challenges did the Harte family face in their original home?
The property suffered from severe damp, mould, and a G-rated energy profile, alongside a layout unsuited to the sensory and mobility needs of three children with autism and developmental delays.
Who designed the updated layout and outdoor space?
Kerry Hiddleston of Hiddleston Interior Design directed the interior layout, while Natalia Kryszczynska of Creative Garden Design planned the outdoor sensory spaces.
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