Step inside the beautifully restored Victorian home in County Down that has become an internet sensation. The Hillsborough Old Time YMCA (HOTY) has been lovingly restored by its current owners and featured in numerous publications. With impressive features throughout, including stained-glass windows, turrets and ornate fireplaces, HOTY is a true masterpiece of design and architecture. Explore this magnificent property with us and uncover the fascinating history behind one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic homes.
The world of interior design and home renovation never sleeps, and the Home of the Year competition is one of the many ways that designers and enthusiasts keep an eye on the latest trends and innovations. This year’s competition has been especially captivating for viewers, as the judges seemed to have a distinct preference for maximalist, eclectic, and sometimes zany designs.
One of the standout properties in this year’s competition is a stunning Victorian house located in County Down, Northern Ireland. The property boasts striking period features such as ornate cornices and fireplaces, but the current owners have injected a modern twist into the decor, creating a stunning fusion of old and new. Viewers were particularly taken with the property’s quirky touches, such as a bright orange door and a unique geometric patterned feature wall in the living room.
However, not all viewers were happy with the judges’ scoring of the property. Some felt that the judges failed to fully appreciate the bold and daring design choices made by the homeowners, noting that the judges’ conservative tastes may have held the property back from achieving a higher score.
Another property in the competition that caught viewers’ attention was a restored 19th-century Victorian house in County Down. The property had been in the same family for generations, but due to years of neglect, it was in a sorry state by the time the current owners took it on. However, with dedication and hard work, the family managed to restore the property to its former glory, while also adding their own contemporary flair.
The end result is a stunning home that seamlessly blends old and new, with period features such as sash windows and original floorboards coexisting harmoniously with sleek modern finishes. Viewers were particularly impressed with the property’s use of bold, statement wallpaper and bright pops of color throughout.
However, not all properties in this year’s Home of the Year competition were quite so successful. One property in particular came under fire from the judges for its impractical and over-the-top design. Despite being located in a beautiful countryside setting, the interior of the property was cluttered and overwhelming, with dark colors and fussy decor dominating.
Viewers were left scratching their heads at some of the design choices made, with many feeling that the homeowners had taken the maximalist trend a little too far. Others felt that the overall effect was simply too chaotic and that the property felt more like a series of individual rooms rather than a cohesive whole.
Overall, this year’s Home of the Year competition has been a fascinating insight into the world of home design and renovation. From stunning Victorian homes to bold and daring maximalist designs, the competition has showcased a diverse range of properties and styles, demonstrating that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to creating a beautiful and stylish home.
Thank you for joining us on this picturesque tour of one of the most remarkable period homes in Co. Down. From the exquisite stained glass windows to the ornate Victorian fireplaces and elegant gardens, this house is a true treasure trove that must be seen to be believed. Its historic character and charm are impeccably preserved, providing a glimpse into a bygone era that is simply awe-inspiring. We hope this article has inspired you to seek out more hidden architectural gems in Ireland and beyond. Until next time!
