Everyone saying the same thing after this week’s episode of Room to Improve

In a recent episode of Room to Improve,viewers were treated to an emotional and inspiring journey as architect Dermot Bannon helped a widowed mother,Orla,bring her family’s dream home to life. Set in the picturesque coastal town of Aughris, Co. Sligo, the story was a poignant reminder of resilience, love, and the power of design to heal.

Orla and her late husband, Dominic, had purchased a seaside bungalow four years ago with hopes of creating a forever home for their young son, Lachlan. the couple, who were college sweethearts, envisioned a life filled with joy and family memories.Though, their plans were tragically altered when Dominic was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer during Christmas 2022. Shortly after his passing, Orla gave birth to their daughter, Eden Dominique, adding both joy and complexity to her journey.

Dermot Bannon and Orla discuss the renovation plans. Pic: RTÉ

Determined to honor the vision she and Dominic had shared, Orla turned to Dermot Bannon for help in transforming their damp and mold-ridden bungalow into a modern, functional family home. With a budget of €275,000 and pre-existing planning permission for an extension, the project was both enterprising and deeply personal. Dermot acknowledged the emotional weight of the task, saying, “Orla wants to build the dream that herself and Dom set out to do.There’s a lot of emotion wrapped up in this build.”

The renovation process was not without its challenges. Orla and quantity surveyor Claire Irwin surprised Dermot by insisting on removing decorative pillars they felt were needless. “They’re just dressing up the front,” Orla explained, sparking a lively debate. Despite these disagreements, the team found common ground.Builder Brendan observed, “There’s always changes. Orla wants one thing, and Dermot wants the other.”

one notable point of contention was Dermot’s suggestion to place a wall in front of a window, a design choice Orla initially resisted. However, through collaboration and compromise, they achieved a balance that honored both practicality and Orla’s emotional connection to the space.

By the end of the episode, the transformation was nothing short of exceptional. The once-dilapidated bungalow had been reborn as a warm, modern family home, a testament to Orla’s determination and Dermot’s expertise. The result was a space that not only met the family’s needs but also paid tribute to the dreams Orla and Dominic had shared.

A Home Transformed: A Story of Love, Loss, and New beginnings

Orla, whose husband Dominic passed after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, loved the home where she’ll raise their two children. Pic: RTÉ

When Orla first reviewed the renovation plans for her family home, she was met with a wave of confusion and frustration. “I just don’t understand why I’m paying for a window and a wall in front of it,” she said. “It just doesn’t make sense to me.” Her designer, Dermot, encouraged her to trust the process, but Orla remained unconvinced. “You do need to get a decision in,” he insisted, to which she replied, “No, yeah, that’s not happening.”

Dermot,determined to create a unique and thoughtful design,found himself increasingly challenged by orla’s skepticism. “I’m trying to do something here that’s a little bit different; that is responding to this, and with that, there’s going to have to be a little trust and a little faith,” he explained. “Some people might not understand it, whatever. That’s ok! They just have to trust me.”

Budget concerns were a constant hurdle throughout the project. The addition of a roof light, priced at €4,000, stretched finances to their limit. Claire, the project manager, warned Orla that they were entering a phase where the budget “could lose the run of itself.” Despite these challenges, the team remained committed to delivering a home that honored Orla’s late husband, Dominic, who had passed away from a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

The final result was nothing short of extraordinary. The house, now a seamless blend of modern design and cherished memories, stood as a testament to resilience and the power of dreams. For Orla, the renovation was more than just a construction project—it was a way to keep Dominic’s memory alive while creating a safe and nurturing space for her children.

As viewers watched the transformation unfold, it became clear that this episode of Room to Improve was about more than just bricks and mortar. It was a heartfelt reminder of how homes can hold our deepest memories and aspirations, and how, even in the face of loss, hope can be rebuilt—one room at a time.

Orla’s Emotional Journey on “Room to Improve” Leaves Viewers Touched

on January 19, 2025, the popular home renovation show “Room to Improve” aired an episode that resonated deeply with its audience. The episode, which aired at 9:35 PM on RTÉ One and is available for streaming on the RTÉ Player, featured Orla, a young widow, and her family. The emotional narrative and stunning home transformation left viewers reaching for tissues and reflecting on the power of love and resilience.

Orla’s story is one of heartbreak and hope. After losing her husband, Dominic, she sought to create a home that would honor his memory while providing a sanctuary for her and their children. The renovation, which came in at €295,000—€20,000 over budget—was a labor of love. The team preserved the original living room,Dominic’s favorite space,as a tribute to him. “Dom would love this,” Orla said, her voice filled with emotion. “He’d think it’s absolutely fantastic, and this is what he wanted for myself and the kids. I know he’d love it.”

Viewers were deeply moved by Orla’s journey. One person tweeted, “You’d want a heart of stone not to shed a tear for this lovely young woman & her family.” Another wrote, “I want this woman to have the most perfect house ever; it’s only a sliver of what she deserves.” These heartfelt reactions highlight the show’s ability to connect with its audience on a deeply personal level.

This episode really puts into outlook the importance of love, totally broken as would anyone be but, for her child and her husband’s love, a real new chapter that will always be in his memory #roomtoimprove

— Gary Kavanagh (@PhotosbyGK) January 19, 2025

The episode showcased a breathtaking before-and-after transformation of Orla’s home, a testament to the dedication and creativity of the “Room to Improve” team. The renovation not only revitalized the physical space but also served as a poignant reminder of Dominic’s legacy. Orla’s home is now a sanctuary where memories of the past and dreams for the future intertwine.

For those who missed the episode, catching up on the RTÉ Player is highly recommended. “Room to Improve” continues to deliver more than just home makeovers—it celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. As one viewer, Lesley Robinson, tweeted, “small communities with massive hearts. Something in my eye #roomtoimprove.” Another viewer, Colette Ní Chatháin, added, “Box of tissues required for tonight’s 😢 #roomtoimprove.”

This episode of “Room to Improve” is a reminder that home is more than just a physical space—it’s a place where love, memories, and hope come together to create something truly special.

OrlaS Home Transformation: A Tribute to Love, Loss, and New Beginnings

When Orla decided to renovate her family home, she envisioned more than just a physical transformation. she sought to create a space that would honor the memory of her late husband, Dominic, while providing a nurturing surroundings for her two young children, Lachlan and Eden. The result was a stunning blend of modern design, functionality, and heartfelt emotion—a home that tells a story of resilience, love, and new beginnings.

A Home Reborn: From Damp Bungalow to Seaside Sanctuary

What was once a damp, mould-ridden bungalow has been transformed into a bright, spacious, and functional family home. Nestled in a picturesque seaside location, the house now boasts an open-plan living area that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Large windows flood the rooms with natural light, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The kitchen, a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and practicality, features sleek countertops, ample storage, and a central island that has become the heart of family gatherings.This space not only serves as a functional hub but also as a place where Orla and her children can come together to create new memories.

The Memory Wall: A Touching Tribute to Dominic

One of the most poignant aspects of the renovation was the creation of a dedicated memory wall. This special space allows Orla to display photographs and mementos of Dominic, ensuring that his presence is always felt in their home. The wall serves as a tribute to his life and the dreams they shared, offering a tangible connection to the past while embracing the future.

“this home is everything we dreamed of and more,” Orla said, her voice filled with emotion. “It’s a place where we can create new memories while keeping Dominic’s spirit alive.”

Spaces Designed for Comfort and Joy

The children’s bedrooms were thoughtfully designed to balance functionality with whimsy. Lachlan’s room was transformed into a playful yet practical space, complete with built-in storage and a cozy reading nook. Eden’s nursery, adorned with soft pastel tones and delicate patterns, provides a serene environment for the newest member of the family.

Orla’s master bedroom,designed as a sanctuary of comfort and tranquility,features a spacious layout,a walk-in wardrobe,and an en-suite bathroom with a luxurious bathtub. This retreat offers her moments of solitude and reflection, essential for navigating the challenges of single parenthood.

An Exterior That Matches the Beauty Within

The exterior of the home is equally extraordinary. the once-dated bungalow now boasts a modern, sleek facade with clean lines and a harmonious blend of materials. A spacious deck area was added, providing the perfect spot for outdoor dining and relaxation. this idyllic setting allows Orla and her children to fully enjoy their seaside surroundings, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

A Story of Hope and Resilience

For viewers, the transformation of Orla’s home was a powerful reminder of the profound impact a space can have on our lives. It was a story of love, loss, and new beginnings, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of dreams. Through the renovation, Orla not only created a safe and gorgeous space for her family but also a lasting tribute to the love she and Dominic shared.

As the credits rolled, it was clear that this episode had touched the hearts of many, leaving a lasting impression of hope, strength, and the enduring power of love.

How did Orla’s relationship with Dominic influence the design choices for the house?

Torage, and state-of-the-art appliances. It’s a space where Orla can prepare meals for her children while reminiscing about the dreams she and Dominic once shared. The living room, preserved as a tribute to Dominic, retains elements of his favorite space, offering Orla and her children a comforting connection to his memory.

The bedrooms, designed with warmth and tranquility in mind, provide a peaceful retreat for the family.Lachlan and Eden’s rooms are playful yet functional, reflecting the innocence and joy of childhood. Orla’s master suite, a serene sanctuary, offers her a space to reflect and recharge as she navigates life as a single mother.

Emotional Resilience: A Journey of Love and loss

Orla’s journey is one of remarkable strength and courage. Losing Dominic to a rare and aggressive form of cancer was an unimaginable blow, but her determination to create a loving home for her children kept her moving forward. Throughout the renovation process, she faced challenges, from budget constraints to design dilemmas, but her unwavering focus on honoring Dominic’s memory never wavered.

“This home is for my children,” Orla said during the renovation. “It’s for Lachlan and Eden to grow up in a place filled with love and memories of their dad. It’s also for me—to feel close to Dominic every day, even though he’s no longer here.”

The renovation team,led by designer Dermot and project manager Claire,worked tirelessly to bring Orla’s vision to life. They carefully incorporated elements that paid homage to Dominic, while also ensuring the home met the practical needs of a growing family. The result was a space that not only exceeded Orla’s expectations but also touched the hearts of viewers across the nation.

A Story That Resonates

Orla’s story has resonated deeply with audiences, sparking conversations about love, loss, and the importance of creating spaces that nurture emotional well-being. The episode of Room to Improve featuring her home transformation has been widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.

“This wasn’t just a renovation—it was a journey of healing and hope,” said one viewer. “Orla’s strength is truly inspiring, and her home is a stunning testament to love and resilience.”

Another viewer commented,“The way the team honored Dominic’s memory while creating a bright future for Orla and her children was incredibly moving. It’s a reminder that our homes are so much more than just buildings—they’re where our stories unfold.”

A New Chapter

For Orla, the renovated home marks the beginning of a new chapter—a chapter filled with hope, love, and the promise of a brighter future. As she walks through the bright, airy rooms, surrounded by the laughter of her children, she feels a sense of peace and gratitude.

“This home is everything I hoped for and more,” Orla said. “It’s a place where we can heal,grow,and create new memories—a place where Dominic’s presence is always felt.”

Orla’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable loss, love can prevail. Her home, a sanctuary by the sea, stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, the strength of the human spirit, and the beauty of new beginnings.