In this 2024 "WRAPPED" edition, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan whizzes through the 5 episodes released this year during her maternity leave, as well as behind-the-scenes on her Georgian protected structure renovation.

In today’s episode, Tanya is joined by seasoned real estate agent Matt Forkin, where they dive into Ireland’s property market. With nearly two decades of experience, Matt shares his professional journey, starting in 2006, and how he weathered the turbulent 2008 financial crisis. He reflects on the evolution of his business, from starting in property management to becoming an independent real estate brand, Forkin Property.

Matt provides an insider look at the housing crash of 2008-2009, detailing the challenges of a stalled property market and how it still affects the market even today.

From a lack of mortgage lending to a market dominated by bank sales and receiverships, he explains how those formative years shaped his approach to the ever-changing real estate landscape. 

Shifting to present-day trends, Matt discusses his bread and butter, the property market in County Wicklow and beyond.

He highlights the rising demand for new builds, fueled by government affordability schemes which make it easier for first-time buyers to enter the market. He discusses rising construction costs and labor shortages which are pushing prices higher, creating a complex environment for buyers and developers. 

Matt explains why new developments are so appealing when it comes to community and lifestyle, especially for a first time buyer. From energy-efficient designs to thoughtfully planned neighborhoods with amenities, these homes are ideal for families looking to settle into vibrant communities.

However, he also weighs the benefits of secondhand homes, which often offer better value per square foot, despite requiring renovations. New-builds are becoming more and more popular throughout Ireland, particularly Wicklow.

Matt offers valuable advice for families that outgrow their homes, and for second-time buyers navigating the market.

Should they extend their current property or take the leap into something new with more space? He stresses the importance of home presentation when selling, suggesting simple upgrades to attract higher offers.

Matt and Tanya explore the growing popularity of apartments, particularly among down-sizers and non-nationals who value accessibility and convenience.

He sheds light on the changing dynamics for Irish homebuyers, and offers insights for anyone looking to buy, sell, or invest in today’s property market.

This episode is a great discussion into Ireland’s current property market. Matt Forkin generously shares so much wonderful advice that buyers can use when considering their next move, or their current spaces. 

You can follow Forkin Property on Instagram HERE.

Their website is linked HERE. 

Welcome back to the Interiors Podcast! Tanya makes a return after a six-month hiatus, featuring an in-depth conversation with Rachel and Alan Farrelly of Farrelly & Co, a Dublin-based paint company. The duo, both business partners and spouses, first walk through how they founded their company in early 2020 after returning from a three-year stint in Australia. Inspired by the types of design they encountered there, they set out to bring a more customer-focused and detail-oriented approach to the Irish painting industry.

Farrelly & Co’s business model and product line are tailored to a  clientele who value craftsmanship and authenticity. The company operates exclusively online, which allows them to maintain a direct relationship with their customers. They prioritize quality over mass appeal, and they’ve cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates their attention to detail and personalized service. 

Tanya, Alan and Rachel discuss how Farrelly & Co initially thrived despite launching at the onset of the pandemic. They talk about how lockdowns spurred a surge in demand for home renovations, giving the business a strong start. Using their backgrounds, they expanded their skill by launching a line of high-quality, eco-friendly paints in 2022. Their paint is non-toxic, vegan, and safe for children, embodying their commitment to sustainability and premium quality. 

They walk us through what the process is like to remove old layers of paint from period properties, and the true grunt work that goes into it. They then also discuss the common mistakes that other services will make when it comes to prep work and renovations. Their true expertise is their specific process with the prep work, and that’s what makes it so long lasting, making it a better investment for the consumer. 

Alan and Rachel discuss how precise they must be when picking the colors of someone’s home, and they do not cut any corners when it comes to making sure someone’s space is curated and then painted to perfection. They walk us through important steps when it comes to sampling, consulting, and coloring a room, as well as common mistakes to avoid in the process. They share the basics that people need to understand when it comes to picking colors for each specific room in their homes. 

They discuss color drenching, picking the right color for your trim or panelling, and the right paint finish for each room in your home. They are always conscious in their design, and they make sure to take their customers' lifestyle into account. They encourage their customers to take risks, be brave with colors, and to follow certain trends that can elevate a space. 

This conversation shows the importance of passion and adaptability in building a successful business. Despite the challenges of starting during a global pandemic, Farrelly & Co has established itself as a trusted name in paint products, carving out a distinctive place in a competitive market.

Welcome back to another episode of The Interiors Podcast. Today, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan had the pleasure of interviewing Shay Lally, QS and founder of Houses To Restore. Shay and Tanya got to discuss renovations and how to work around the challenges of the budgeting when you're considering buying a property. He also gives us an insight of how is Instagram came about, and where his passion for renovation began.

Houses To Restore originally started as an Instagram account that highlighted properties on the market and gave ideas on how a QS would restore each property, sharing budget and ideas. With the success of the account since the pandemic and property boom, Shay moved into consulting services and now offers a full design and build model with the company working with architects, engineers, interior designers and sub-contractors. 

Shay and Tanya discuss how tricky Dublin renovations can be to estimate when you're considering a property or have already bought. Shay and Tanya walk through his entire process in helping a client with a renovation from seeing a property that's on a market to initial costing plans all the way through to project managing an extension or refurb.

Shay discusses the range of costs homeowners can expect depending on the type of property and access and whether kitchens, bathrooms or windows are being updated. They also dive into the cost of an extension and some other "hidden" costs like VAT and professional fees people may not consider until it is too late in the process.

There are a lot of issues that can pop up when purchasing and renovating a home, and Shay emphasizes the importance of seeking out guidance and having a good architect and team working on a space, as well as having a QS to evaluate all aspects of the renovation process. Shay goes into detail about cost plans and how the owner can tweak their renovation and budget to suit their lifestyle needs.

Join us next time for more insights and stories from the world of renovation and interior design. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle. 

Resources 

You can learn more about Shay Lally and Houses To Restore on their website: https://www.housestorestore.ie/

Follow Shay on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/houses_to_restore

Welcome back to The Interiors Podcast. In this episode, host interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses inspiration, aspiration, and Irish design with IMAGE Interiors magazine editor Megan Burns. We dive behind the scenes of this iconic biannual magazine and what makes it so special and influential in the Irish interiors scene.

The IMAGE Interiors ethos is to highlight the best of Irish design and craft. Megan Burns, who has recently taken over as editor, explains that ‘trends’ are less of a major focus, but rather showcasing themes, artisans and homes that tell a story and enlighten the viewer. 

We discuss how Irish design is evolving and how every reader can bring something that they see in the magazine into their own spaces. True to their more editorial and curated aesthetic, IMAGE Interiors make an effort to put forth unique interiors homes in every issue. Megan emphasizes that it is important for people to do what THEY want in their homes, rather than adhering themselves to what they think is appropriate in their homes. She encourages viewers to proceed with less caution in approaching how they want their spaces to look.

IMAGE Interiors features many different projects, designers, architects, and focus on the sustainability of the designs being shown - every issue feels timeless and like it could sit on your coffee table without aging out. Megan and Tanya discuss how even though the magazine can include many seemingly complicated designs, it is still focused on making sure that anyone can read and enjoy. IMAGE Interiors seeks to inspire the viewer to think about their own style in an authentic and courageous way, no matter where they are living. 

Join us next time for more insights and inspiring stories from the world of interior design. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle.

Resources

You can learn more about IMAGE and the IMAGE interiors magazine on their website - https://www.image.ie/

Find them on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/image_interiors/

Follow Megan - https://www.instagram.com/megan_burns___/

Welcome back to another episode of The Interiors Podcast. I want to share with you the enlightening journey we took in our latest episode titled "How to Craft Effortless Elegance for Your Lifestyle and Property" with the esteemed interior designer Po McNamee. We delved deep into the art of creating spaces that exude a unique blend of restrained glamour and effortless elegance, a signature style that Po is renowned for.

Po, with her 15-20 years of experience in luxury, domestic, and commercial properties, enlightened us with her philosophy of intertwining clients' personalities within their homes. She emphasizes the joy of working on personal projects, bringing clients' visions to life, and the excitement of restoration projects. Her expertise shines through in her ability to modernize while respecting the heritage and character of spaces.

We explored the intricate process of interior design, particularly in restoration projects. Po detailed how her team collaborates with architects and other professionals, focusing on interior architecture to ensure that the essence of each project remains strong from concept to completion. She stressed the importance of being involved early in projects, ensuring clients' desires are met, and avoiding costly redirections.

The highlight of our conversation was Po's description of her style - elegant, yet restrained, with a focus on quality materials and art. She loves incorporating natural materials and colors, adding touches of fun and personality through unexpected elements. Her approach is client-centric, valuing their input and ideas, which often become the magic in the projects.

Listeners, this episode isn't just about interior design; it's a testament to the power of listening to clients, understanding their needs, and transforming their spaces into something that not only looks beautiful but feels like home. Po's work is a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and client's personality, which makes each project unique and personal.

Join us next time for more insights and inspiring stories from the world of interior design. Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode. Until then, keep creating spaces that reflect you and your lifestyle!

Resources

Follow Po on Instagram @pomcnameedesign

In our latest episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Susan McGowan of Ashen and Cloud, a beacon of creativity in Ireland's interior design scene. We dove deep into a topic that many of you have pondered over – how to steer clear of a bland aesthetic in your living spaces. Susan’s insights are a goldmine for anyone yearning to infuse their homes with character and individuality.

Susan's journey from a music-oriented background to the pinnacle of interior design is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Her approach to each project is refreshingly unique, shaped by her experiences and a keen eye for merging client desires with artistic expression. We discussed various design categories – from contemporary sleekness to the intricate charm of refurbishments – each requiring a nuanced touch to achieve balance and allure.

One of the standout stories from Susan was about a project in Kerry, where a traditional farmhouse meets modern design. It's a vivid example of blending the old and new, using natural materials and colors drawn from the surrounding landscape. This project alone could spark a million ideas in your mind about your own home!

We also tackled the ever-daunting kitchen design, where Susan provided sage advice on avoiding 'safe' choices that lead to uninspiring spaces. She encouraged bold decisions, like choosing standout features carefully, to create a kitchen that's not just functional but also a reflection of your personality.

Our conversation took a fascinating turn when discussing a project for clients relocating to a contemporary new build in their retirement. The challenge here was integrating their cherished antiques into a modern setting – a true test of Susan and her team's creative prowess.

And of course, Susan shared her golden rule – detailed planning is key. Whether it's furniture, lighting, or artwork, considering every element from the get-go is essential to avoid bland interiors. She also had a reassuring message about design trends: It's less about following them and more about creating spaces that resonate with your personal style and life's moments.

For those needing a bit of professional guidance, Susan mentioned the various services offered by Ashen and Cloud, from comprehensive design to helpful consultations.

How to Connect with Susan McGowan:

1. Instagram: Follow Susan and her team’s latest projects and get inspired by their unique designs at @AshenandCloud.

2. Website: Discover more about Susan’s work, philosophy, and the range of services offered by visiting the Ashen and Cloud website: AshenandCloud.com.

Through these platforms, you can explore Susan's portfolio, and perhaps even find inspiration for your next design project. Whether it's a full-scale renovation or simply seeking a fresh perspective on your living space, Susan’s expertise is just a click away.

Remember, each episode of the Interiors Podcast strives to bring you closer to the heart of home design, featuring professionals like Susan who are reshaping the way we think about our living spaces.

Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions!

In our latest episode of the Interiors Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the ever-insightful Ciara Elliott, editor of House & Home magazine. We delved deep into the heart of today's housing market, sharing personal stories and the emotional rollercoaster many face when making housing decisions.

Ciara and I explored the beauty of personalizing our approach to homes, emphasizing the need to listen to our hearts rather than just market trends. We laughed about the elusive "perfect home" and the dangers of waiting for that ideal moment to buy or sell. Ciara's candid advice on staying open to various housing possibilities, like the charming idea of dropping notes in doors of desired areas, truly resonated with me.

Our chat also touched on the power of DIY and the transformative nature of personalizing our spaces. We discussed the importance of living in the present, making choices that resonate with our current needs, and the joy of creating a home that truly reflects who we are. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the housing market or just need some heartwarming insights on making a house a home, this episode is a must-listen!

Resources

You can find out more about the House & Home Magazine through their website - https://www.houseandhome.ie/

Find them on Instagram - @houseandhomemagazine

Also you can find Ciara and look at her own home journey @ciaraelliott

As we kick off season three of the Interiors Podcast, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the gems from season two. From interviewing industry experts to diving deep into personal home renovation stories, we've covered a lot.

Jenny Butler shared her transition from commercial to residential design, revealing how her experience influenced her own home's design. I also shared a solo episode on creating your unique style, a formula to ensure your home reflects your personal taste while staying true to its architecture. And for those DIY enthusiasts, Vivian McKendry's journey of climbing the property ladder and her DIY successes (and a few lessons learned) is a must-listen.

We had inspiring homeowners like Rob Hennessy, who took on a massive renovation project during the pandemic, and the behind-the-scenes of our new home featured on RTÉ's Home of the Year.

For those diving into the technical side, the episode with Dogwood Designs demystifies joinery, breaking down the differences in materials and costs. Kate O’Driscoll's pivot into renovation consulting after her DIY journey with a Victorian home offers insights for those early in their renovation planning. And if you're on a tight budget, Kieran McCarthy's practical advice from the show "Cheap Irish Homes" is invaluable.

Lastly, for those navigating the maze of planning permissions, Luke Wymer's episode is a comprehensive guide, especially if you're dealing with historical properties.

As we move forward, I promise to continue bringing you both inspiration and practical tips. If you have any recommendations or want to connect, reach out on our Instagram.

Thanks for being part of this journey, and I can't wait to share more in season three!

Make sure to follow the podcast on whatever platform you are listening. 

Find me on Instagram @theinteriorspodcast

Episodes Covered in Season Two:

1. Episode 16: Bringing the best of commercial interiors home with interior architect Jennifer Anne Interiors

2. Episode 17: Finding your interiors style & inspiration with a story

3. Episode 18: A lesson in DIY design and renovation with Vivian McKendry of @the.project.home

4. Episode 19: Combining passion and practicality in a Great House Revival with Rob Hennessey

5. Episode 20: Our Home and RTE's Home of the Year

6. Episode 21: The 101 of joinery & custom kitchens with Dogwood Designs

7. Episode 22: A DIY approach to period properties with renovation consultant Kate O’Driscoll

8. Episode 23: The 101 to planning a renovation with build expert Kieran McCarthy

9. Episode 24: A Portobello home makeover by designer Sophie Lundstrom Halbert

10. Episode 25: A guide to your planning journey with Planning Consultant Luke Wymer

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast I am chatting with Luke Wymer, a planning consultant with a large planning and development consultancy here in Dublin. Luke shares his wisdom and expertise when it comes to the planning process both on a professional level and also in his own life since he purchased a protected home in Greystones, Co Wicklow.

The episode delves into the realities of historical property projects, emphasizing the importance of being aware of their timelines and costs.

In this episode Luke talks us through the planning application process, everything from the standard application for an extension right up to more complicated processes for period / protected homes.

We speak about how restoring a historic property often involves strict guidelines and regulations, such as using identical materials for repairs and following specific repair methods, which can add significant costs to the project.

This episode is full of so many helpful guidelines for anybody that has recently purchased and is thinking about making changes or for those who are currently looking for a property.

Resources

You can find Luke via his company website - http://jsaplanning.ie/

Irish Planning Institute - https://ipi.ie/

If you are considering works that will need planning - check out your local county councils' List of Exemptions / Limitations