Drawing Inspiration From Nature: A House Painted Blackbird Yellow
Table of Contents
- 1. Drawing Inspiration From Nature: A House Painted Blackbird Yellow
- 2. Building a dream Home: An Interview with Eamonn O’Sullivan
- 3. A designer Space That’s Both Stylish and Cozy
- 4. Designing a Cozy Modern Haven
- 5. A Stylish Renovation with Mid-Century Flair
- 6. From Rusted Shed to Standout Home: A Couple’s DIY Renovation Triumph
- 7. Transforming a House into a Home: Family Fun and Found Treasures
- 8. Creating a Haven: An Interview with Liz, House Designer and Weaver
- 9. home sweet Home: Liz’s Journey of Renovation and Inspiration
- 10. How did Liz’s background as a weaver influence the design choices for her dream home?
- 11. Creating a Haven: An Interview with Liz, House Designer and Weaver
In a world captivated by bold color trends, Eamon O’Sullivan and Liz, a Kerryman and his English wife respectively, chose a more subtle yet equally striking hue for their new home. Inspired by the vibrant yellow of a blackbird’s beak – a nod too nature’s palette – they named their abode “lon Dubh,” meaning “blackbird” in Gaelic. This captivating color accents their home in unexpected ways,adorning a five-bar gate and playfully enlivening a steel spiral staircase that ascends to a spacious kitchen mezzanine.
While the exterior boasts a deep, almost black-hued briquette brown, Eamon explains their choice with a simple rationale: “We wanted the building to fit in. You see a lot of dark shadows through the trees, so we didn’t want it to be radiant or stand out.”
Their design approach, though, transcends mere aesthetics.Eamon, a graphic designer with experience in museum installations, and Liz, a woven textile designer, bring a keen understanding of form, color, and function to their work. Together, they run their own design studio, Anchor Studio, where their shared passion for creativity flourishes.
Their combined expertise has resulted in a home that seamlessly blends into its rural surroundings while showcasing their unique design sensibilities. It’s a testament to their belief that stunning design can exist in harmony with nature.
A Kilkenny couple took a daring leap of faith, transforming their dated kitchen into a vibrant, custom haven. inspired by an image of a stunning Italian stainless steel kitchen found online, they embraced resourcefulness when budget constraints arose.
Eamonn, a skilled cabinet maker, poured his heart and expertise into making their vision reality alongside his partner, Liz. They embarked on a journey of transformation, weaving a story of passion and creativity.Instead of sticking to a traditional remodel, they chose a bold focal point: a striking spiral staircase leading to an upper mezzanine, adorned in a vivacious blackbird beak yellow powder coated finish, a feature beautifully brought to life by Stainless Steel Solutions, a local Kilkenny company.
“If a staircase was going to take up half a wall, it had to become a feature and make it fun,” Eamonn stated, capturing their willingness to embrace unconventional design choices.
Their curated furniture and decor choices perfectly complement this vibrant statement piece.Banana yellow Tolix bar stools add a playful touch to the central island, while the room effortlessly blends modern functionality with a retro ambiance. Mid-century inspired dining chairs surround a robust wooden dining table, creating an inviting space for gathering and connection.
Building a dream Home: An Interview with Eamonn O’Sullivan
Eamonn O’Sullivan’s Kenmare home is a triumph of vision and determination. It’s a testament to the belief that even the most seemingly unsuitable site can be transformed into a haven. While working in Dublin, Eamonn and his wife realized they needed more space to accommodate their growing family. Finding the perfect place proved elusive, leading them to make a bold move: relocate to Kenmare, renting a house from a friend.
The plot of land where their dream home would eventually stand? Initially,it wasn’t inspiring. “Below [his parents’] house was a boggy patch with bull rushes,” Eamonn recalls. Undeterred by this somewhat unpromising start, the couple was unwavering in their desire to build their forever home.
They wisely sought the expertise of engineer Donagh O’Regan of Reeks Engineering.Donagh’s insights proved invaluable.he suggested clearing the land and utilizing the rocky terrain to fill in the boggy area, transforming the site from a challenging prospect into a solid base for construction.
The sloping topography presented another hurdle,but architect jane Foley embraced the challenge,skillfully designing a home in tiers that seamlessly blended with the surrounding landscape. It’s a testament to her vision and understanding of the site’s unique qualities.
A designer Space That’s Both Stylish and Cozy
Creating a home that perfectly blends aesthetics and functionality is a true art form. This couple, affectionately calling their residence the “living womb” due to its vibrant color palette, sought to achieve just that. They craved a space that wasn’t just visually stunning but also exuded warmth and an undeniable sense of welcome.
Designing a Cozy Modern Haven
Creating a space that feels both stylish and snug is a delicate balancing act. But for one couple, it was achieved through a playful mix of modern design elements and a dash of vintage flair. They sought to craft a haven where they could “shut the door and be cosy,” and they succeeded in transforming their home into a welcoming oasis.
A key element in achieving this cozy vibe was the use of a singular color palette. Both the walls and ceiling of the living room were painted in the same shade, “Contrast” by Colourtrend, a choice that instantly creates a sense of intimacy. As they envisioned “somewhere they could maximise floorspace,” a sliding door further enhances the feeling of openess within the space. “nicknamed the living womb on account of their color choices,” the result is a room that feels both inviting and expansive.
This dedication to cozy extends to the 65 square meter mezzanine level.Meticulously planned to be functional as well as stylish, it’s a space that comfortably accommodates both work and play. A pool table, gaming zone, dedicated workstation for Eamonn, and a sewing table for Liz prove that this space is a true reflection of their shared interests and hobbies. Adding another layer of personality is the flooring – cork tiles that pay homage to the 1970s aesthetic. “It brings a lovely warmth,” Liz notes, highlighting how this unique choice contributes to the overall inviting atmosphere.
A cozy living space with a mid-century modern aesthetic.
Eamonn and Liz wanted their dream bungalow to be a harmonious blend of modern design and classic charm. Their initial plans included a separate garage that doubled as a studio, but budget limitations forced them to think outside the box. The solution? A spacious mezzanine above the dining area, adding a generous 65 square meters to their 156 square meter home.
“It gives us that extra room. We use every inch of it,” Eamonn shares, highlighting the thoughtful use of this expanded space.Liz delves deeper into their design philosophy, explaining, “In a bungalow, we wanted to embrace a modern aesthetic, but we already possessed a considerable collection of furniture, mostly mid-century pieces.We didn’t want to sacrifice that history or replace everything.”
Their dedication to preserving the character of their furniture is evident in the final design.
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A Stylish Renovation with Mid-Century Flair
This family’s recent home makeover offers a compelling blend of personality and practicality.Balancing a distinct mid-century modern aesthetic with modern must-haves, they created a space that’s both stylish and functional.
The family embraced the charm of vintage finds, incorporating unique pieces throughout their home. Liz,the homeowner, devotes her free time to scouring online marketplaces like eBay,Adverts,and Done Deal,searching for hidden treasures. She and her family relished the thrill of the hunt, discovering unique items that breathe life into their space.
One particular standout is the guest WC, adorned with eye-catching 1960s wallpaper. This bold statement piece, found online, sets a playful and retro tone. The same vibrant print is echoed in Rian’s bedroom wardrobe area, creating a cohesive and stylish flow throughout the home.
The guest WC will capture yoru attention with its 1960s wallpaper, found online. The same eye-catching print is also used around Rian’s bedroom wardrobe area.
“We didn’t need it. Initially I thought I would miss a fire,but you get used to it,” Liz shared,highlighting the adaptability that comes with embracing change.
With the support of family, tradespeople became more accessible, resulting in valuable connections and competitive pricing. Eamonn’s brother Bryan, initially skeptical about liz’s enthusiasm for hunting down vintage pieces, eventually became a valuable asset, introducing her to contacts in the trade that resulted in fantastic deals on materials like the stylish terrazzo-effect tiles now gracing the home’s high-traffic areas.
Liz and Eamonn’s home renovation journey was a testament to resourceful design. When given the challenge of transforming their new dwelling on a budget, they embraced a practical approach that prioritized smart choices without compromising on style.
They had a clear vision while understanding the need for financial prudence. As Liz explains, “We had to find a choice that we could afford.”
One of their most innovative decisions was replacing the original poured concrete floors with budget-friendly terrazzo-look tiles, breathing new life into the heart of their home.
Eamonn, a self-proclaimed devotee of all things stylish, initially fell head over heels for high-end fixtures from Buster and Punch, a UK-based brand renowned for its exquisite light switches, door handles, and other architectural hardware. “Eamonn was hooked on Buster and punch fixtures (a UK-based maker of light switches, door handles etc) for a few hours,” Liz recounts. However,they ultimately found a more affordable solution that didn’t skimp on quality.
Their commitment to smart choices extended beyond aesthetics. they understood the importance of durability, especially considering the boundless energy of their young sons who often transformed their home into a Nerf gun battle zone.Choosing resilient fixtures and finishes proved to be a wise investment.
From Rusted Shed to Standout Home: A Couple’s DIY Renovation Triumph
Liz and Eamonn, with their combined design backgrounds and animation skills, were uniquely positioned to create their dream home. Their ability to visualize and communicate their ideas proved invaluable when working with builders and fabricators, ensuring a smooth renovation process. As Liz explains, “The use of colour is blocked throughout the open-plan kitchen diner where the blackbird yellow features strongly,” she says.”the living room is drenched in a rich terracotta shade.”
Their 2022 project involved transforming a tired house in a quite Dublin suburb into a stylish and functional space. “It needed to be hardwearing,” Liz emphasizes, recalling the family’s lively lifestyle. “The boys have played Nerf gun wars through the property,and nothing has been damaged.”
The renovation was a testament to their smart design choices and DIY ingenuity.A Habitat bed, relegated to Eamonn’s parents’ shed since 2008 due to its awkward size, was given new life. Liz cleverly designed a custom headboard,concealing a shelf behind it for books and bedside essentials. This resourceful approach allowed them to personalize their space while staying true to their budget.
This couple’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, planning, and a touch of love when it comes to transforming a house into a true home.
Transforming a House into a Home: Family Fun and Found Treasures
This family’s journey to create a truly personalized haven is a testament to the power of creativity, resourcefulness, and family bonding. They didn’t just want a house; they wanted a home filled with personality and memories. Embracing a hands-on approach, they involved their sons in every step of the transformation, teaching them valuable lessons about DIY, design, and the joy of creating something truly unique.
“We wanted the boys to see that you can make your house fun and also be a home,” shares Liz, reflecting on their experience. Their adventures weren’t confined to typical renovation projects. They embarked on exciting expeditions, scouring flea markets, antique shops, and even venturing out under the cloak of darkness, armed with torches, to uncover hidden gems.
“They were taken on many site visits, some under cover of darkness by torchlight,” Liz recalls, highlighting the playful spirit that infused their renovation journey.
their commitment to practicality and functionality was evident in every detail. liz, resourceful and resolute, repurposed furniture, breathing new life into forgotten pieces. Take, as an example, the Habitat bed, originally destined for a shed. Liz cleverly transformed it into a statement piece, adding a custom headboard with integrated shelves, maximizing space and adding a touch of personality to the principal bedroom. “There wasn’t room for lockers either side of the bed,” Liz mentions,showcasing their ingenuity in overcoming spatial challenges.
This renovation project beautifully illustrates how creativity, skill, and resourcefulness can transform a basic house into a cherished, personalized home, filled with stories, laughter, and memories.
The Habitat bed in the principal bedroom had been in Eamonn’s parents’ shed since 2008 as it didn’t fit in their rental homes. Liz made the bed fit perfectly in their new home.
Creating a Haven: An Interview with Liz, House Designer and Weaver
Liz and her partner recently completed their dream home, a testament to their shared love of design and handcrafted artistry. We sat down with Liz to discuss their journey, the unexpected challenges, and the unique treasures that adorn their space.
archyde News: Liz, congratulations on completing your beautiful home! What inspired your unique design choices?
Liz:
Thank you! We wanted to create a space that felt both modern and timeless, infused with personality and warmth.
As a weaver, I’m deeply drawn to handcrafted textiles. Finding beautiful rugs, each telling a story through its pattern and colours, was a truly special part of the process.
Their journey began with finding the perfect plot of land, nestled amongst rolling hills.
“We fell in love with the views and the feeling of tranquility it offered,” Liz recalls.
Construction commenced, guided by builder Sean Healy of Lauragh Construction. While initially budgeting €270,000, unforeseen expenses, particularly the surge in building material costs during the pandemic, pushed the final cost to approximately €330,000.
Liz’s passion for handcrafted textiles is evident throughout the home.She sourced many of the rugs from Carpet U2 in Athens, meticulously combing through their discounted sections.
“These were made by hand by nomadic tribes,” Liz explains. “As a weaver, the pile rugs told pictorial stories. Each rug, a testament to generations-old traditions, adds a unique narrative to the home’s ambiance.
Interior design studio anchorstudio.ie played a pivotal role in bringing liz’s vision to life. They expertly blended functionality with artistic flair, creating a haven that reflects Liz and her partner’s shared passions and aspirations.
home sweet Home: Liz’s Journey of Renovation and Inspiration
Building a dream home is an exciting endeavor, often filled with challenges and rewards.Liz, a passionate advocate for sustainable living, embarked on a journey to transform her vision into reality, creating a space that reflects her unique personality and values. Despite facing unexpected obstacles, Liz persevered, demonstrating resilience and creativity throughout the entire process.
“One unexpected challenge was the surge in building material costs during the pandemic,” Liz recalls. “It definitely impacted our budget! But we learned to be resourceful and make adjustments along the way. Looking back, we wouldn’t change a thing. Every obstacle helped shape our journey and made the final result even more special.”
Liz’s attention to detail is evident throughout the home, particularly in her stunning collection of handwoven rugs. “I partnered with a company in Athens called Carpet U2. They had a grate selection of discounted rugs, frequently enough handcrafted by nomadic tribes. As a weaver myself, I’m fascinated by the tradition and artistry behind these textiles. Each rug tells a unique story,adding layers of meaning and cultural richness to our home,” Liz shares.
With a focus on creating a warm and inviting space, Liz’s advice to others embarking on their own renovation projects is simple: “My biggest piece of advice is to involve your family in the process! Make it a fun and collaborative adventure. Don’t be afraid to be creative and personalize your space. And remember, it’s okay to prioritize functionality while still embracing your unique style.”
Stepping into Liz’s home is akin to stepping into a curated tapestry of stories. Liz hopes visitors will feel welcomed, inspired, and curious, drawn to discover the narratives woven into every corner, from the handmade rugs to the repurposed furniture. ultimately, Liz desires for visitors to experience the essence of her vision: “I hope they feel the sense of warmth and love that went into creating this space.”
How did Liz’s background as a weaver influence the design choices for her dream home?
Creating a Haven: An Interview with Liz, House Designer and Weaver
liz and her partner recently completed their dream home, a testament to their shared love of design and handcrafted artistry. We sat down with Liz to discuss their journey, the unexpected challenges, and the unique treasures that adorn their space.
archyde News: Liz, congratulations on completing your lovely home! What inspired your unique design choices?
Liz:
Thank you! We wanted to create a space that felt both modern and timeless, infused with personality and warmth.
As a weaver, I’m deeply drawn to handcrafted textiles. Finding beautiful rugs,each telling a story through it’s pattern and colours,was a truly special part of the process.
archyde News: You’ve incorporated a stunning collection of handwoven rugs throughout your home. Can you tell us more about the story behind them?
liz:
Absolutely! I partnered with a company in Athens called Carpet U2. They had a great selection of discounted rugs, frequently enough handcrafted by nomadic tribes.As a weaver myself, I’m fascinated by the tradition and artistry behind these textiles. Each rug tells a unique story,adding layers of meaning and cultural richness to our home.
archyde News: This home reflects a wonderful blend of functionality and artistic expression. What advice would you give to others who are embarking on their own renovation journeys?
Liz:
My biggest piece of advice is to involve your family in the process! Make it a fun and collaborative adventure. don’t be afraid to be creative and personalize your space. And remember, it’s okay to prioritize functionality while still embracing your unique style.
archyde News: Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us, Liz.Your home is truly inspiring, and we can see the love and craftsmanship that went into every detail.
