From Nature to Design: How a Blackbird Inspired a Stunning Irish Home
The color yellow is having a moment, but for Kerryman Eamon O’Sullivan and his wife liz, their inspiration for the vibrant shade came from an unexpected source: a blackbird’s beak. The couple, who run the multidisciplinary design house Anchor Studio in Kenmare, chose the striking hue for their new-build home, aptly named Lon Dubh—Irish for blackbird.
The exterior of their home is a deep briquette brown, almost black, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. “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,” Eamon explains. this thoughtful approach to design reflects their deep connection to the landscape and their expertise in form, colour, and function.
The yellow accents, inspired by the blackbird’s beak, are a bold yet harmonious addition. The five-bar gate at the front of the property is painted in the same shade, while a steel spiral staircase leading to a spacious mezzanine in the kitchen is powder-coated in the vibrant yellow. “If a staircase was going to take up half a wall, it had to become a feature and make it fun,” Eamon says.The staircase and mezzanine were customised by Stainless Steel Solutions in Co Kilkenny,adding a playful yet functional element to the home.
The couple’s design journey is rooted in their professional backgrounds. Eamon worked as a graphic designer on museum installations, while Liz was a woven textile designer at the renowned British fabric house and interior design firm Colefax and Fowler. Their combined expertise is evident in every detail of Lon Dubh, from the exterior’s understated elegance to the interior’s thoughtful touches.
The home’s design also considers practical challenges, such as the local wildlife. The customised five-bar gate was designed to deter deer from entering and damaging their early-stage garden. This blend of aesthetics and functionality is a hallmark of their work at Anchor Studio.
key Features of Lon Dubh
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Exterior Colour | Deep briquette brown, almost black, to blend with natural surroundings |
| Accent Colour | Blackbird beak yellow, inspired by nature |
| Custom Elements | Powder-coated steel spiral staircase and mezzanine by Stainless Steel solutions |
| Design Philosophy | Functional, playful, and harmonious with the habitat |
The story of Lon Dubh is a testament to the power of nature-inspired design. By drawing from the simple beauty of a blackbird’s beak, Eamon and Liz have created a home that is both striking and serene. Their approach reminds us that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places, and that thoughtful design can transform a house into a true reflection of its surroundings.
For more insights into innovative home design,explore the work of Anchor Studio or learn about the history of Colefax and Fowler’s influence on interior design.
What elements of nature inspire your home design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!Eamonn and Liz’s innovative approach to designing their bungalow in Kenmare has turned heads, blending functionality with a playful aesthetic. Their kitchen, featuring a striking mezzanine level, is a testament to their creative vision. “If a staircase was going to take up half a wall, it had to become a feature and make it fun,” eamonn explained.The spiral stairs and mezzanine were powder-coated in a vibrant blackbird beak yellow by Stainless Steel Solutions in Co Kilkenny, adding a bold pop of color to the space.
The couple’s journey to achieving their dream kitchen was marked by resourcefulness. While a curved Italian stainless steel kitchen was beyond their budget, an internet search led them to stainless Steel Solutions, who helped bring their vision to life. The kitchen now boasts an island with banana yellow Tolix barstools and a mid-century dining table and chairs, creating a cohesive and stylish look.
Their design choices reflect a blend of modern functionality and classic charm. The mezzanine, initially conceived as a solution to budgetary constraints, adds 65 square meters of space above the dining area, proving that creativity can triumph over limitations. This thoughtful design not only maximizes space but also enhances the home’s overall aesthetic.
| Key Features | Details |
|——————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Mezzanine Design | spiral stairs and mezzanine powder-coated in blackbird beak yellow |
| Kitchen Inspiration | Curved Italian stainless steel kitchen inspired by Stainless Steel Solutions|
| Furniture | Banana yellow Tolix barstools and mid-century dining table and chairs |
| Space Optimization | Mezzanine adds 65 sq m above the dining area |
Eamonn and Liz’s bungalow is a masterclass in turning constraints into opportunities. Their ability to blend practicality with personality has resulted in a home that is as functional as it is visually captivating. For more insights into their design journey, explore the full story here.From Boggy Patch to Dream Home: The O’Sullivans’ Inspiring Journey to Kenmare
When Eamonn O’Sullivan and his wife first considered building a home near his parents in kenmare, the site they envisioned seemed far from ideal. “Below the [his parents’] house at the end of the garden was a boggy patch with bull rushes,” Eamonn recalls. What began as an unpromising plot of land has since been transformed into a stunning, tiered single-story home, a testament to vision, determination, and expert design.
The couple’s journey began in Dublin, where they struggled to find a property that could accommodate their growing family and work needs. A conversation with Eamonn’s brother, renowned decorator Bryan O’Sullivan, sparked the idea of relocating to Kenmare. Bryan, whose work includes the Red Room bar at London’s Connaught Hotel and projects at Claridge’s and Maybourne’s ‘Buying the bank seemed daring’: how one couple transformed a rural bank branch into a home and business.
What would your dream home look like? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!A Cosy Retreat: How One Couple Transformed Their home into a Living Womb
When Eamonn and Liz set out to redesign their home, they had one goal in mind: creating a space where they could ”shut the door and be cosy.” The result? A stunning transformation that has earned their living room the nickname ”the living womb.”
The couple’s vision was brought to life with a bold yet comforting color choice. They painted both the walls and ceiling in the same shade—Contrast by Colourtrend—a decision that envelops the room in warmth and intimacy. “We wanted a space that felt like a retreat,” Liz explains. The sliding door, a practical addition, maximizes floor space while maintaining the room’s seamless aesthetic.
But the creativity doesn’t stop there. The 65sq m mezzanine is a multifunctional haven, housing a pool table, a gaming zone, a workstation for Eamonn, and a sewing table for Liz.Floored in cork tiles, the mezzanine pays homage to the 1970s.”It brings a lovely warmth,” liz says, highlighting the material’s ability to infuse the space with character and comfort.
The couple’s attention to detail is evident in every corner of their home. From the cohesive color palette to the thoughtful use of materials, their design choices reflect a deep understanding of what makes a space truly livable.
Key Features of Eamonn and Liz’s Home
| Feature | Details |
|————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Living Room | Walls and ceiling painted in Contrast by Colourtrend; sliding door for space efficiency |
| Mezzanine | 65sq m space with pool table, gaming zone, workstation, and sewing table; cork tile flooring |
| Design inspiration | 1970s aesthetic with modern functionality |
This home is more than just a living space—it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design. By blending bold choices with practical solutions,Eamonn and Liz have created a sanctuary that is as functional as it is indeed beautiful.
for more inspiring home transformations,explore how others are redefining their spaces with innovative design ideas.
What would your dream home look like? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Maximizing Space and Style: How a Mezzanine Transformed a family Home
When Eamonn and Liz set out to renovate their bungalow, they faced a common challenge: limited budget and a growing family. With two boys needing space to play and grow, the couple had to think creatively. The solution? A mezzanine above the dining area, adding a whopping 65sq m to their 156sq m home. “It gives us that extra room. We use every inch of it,” Eamonn says.
Originally,the couple had plans for a detached garage-cum-studio,but budget constraints forced them to rethink. The mezzanine not only provided the additional space they needed but also became a multifunctional hub. Floored in cork tiles, a nod to the 1970s, the area now houses a pool table, a gaming zone, a workstation for Eamonn, and a sewing table for Liz. “It brings a lovely warmth,” Liz notes.
Blending Old and New
While the initial thought was to go modern with their bungalow, Liz and Eamonn decided to incorporate their existing mid-century furniture into the design. “we didn’t want to fit out the new house with all new stuff. The furniture we had was already 40 years old and had weight and history,” Liz explains. This decision not only saved costs but also added a layer of character and nostalgia to their home.
The couple’s attention to detail is evident in every corner. For instance, the guest WC is adorned with 1960s wallpaper sourced online, a print that also wraps around the wardrobe area of their son Rian’s bedroom. This thoughtful touch ties the home’s design together, creating a cohesive aesthetic.
Key Features of the Renovation
| feature | Details |
|————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Mezzanine | Added 65sq m of space, includes gaming zone, workstation, and sewing table |
| Flooring | Cork tiles, inspired by 1970s design |
| furniture | Mid-century pieces, 40 years old, blending history with functionality |
| Wallpaper | 1960s print in guest WC and Rian’s bedroom wardrobe area |
A Home That Tells a Story
Eamonn and Liz’s renovation is a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness. By opting for a mezzanine instead of a detached studio, they maximized their living space without breaking the bank. their decision to retain and repurpose their mid-century furniture added a unique charm to their home, proving that style doesn’t always require a hefty price tag.For families looking to make the most of their space, this project offers valuable inspiration. Whether it’s through clever architectural solutions or thoughtful design choices, it’s possible to create a home that’s both functional and full of character.
What’s your take on blending old and new in home design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Joyful Living: A Family Home Transformed with Clever Storage and a Kitchen full of Surprises
When Liz and Eamonn set out to renovate their family home, they had one goal in mind: to create a space that was both functional and joyful. The result? A home that seamlessly blends mid-century charm with modern practicality,proving that thoughtful design can transform even the most ordinary spaces into something unusual.
A Living Room Without a fireplace
One of the most striking decisions Liz and Eamonn made was to forgo a fireplace in their living room. “We didn’t need it,” Liz explains. “Initially, I thought I would miss a fire, but you get used to it.” instead, they focused on creating a cozy, inviting space they’ve affectionately nicknamed the “living womb.” The centerpiece? A new couch that anchors the room, offering both comfort and style.
This conscious choice wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was also an environmental decision. By eliminating the fireplace,they maximized space and reduced their carbon footprint,a small but meaningful step toward sustainable living.
Vintage Finds and Trade Deals
Liz’s dedication to sourcing unique pieces for their home was nothing short of impressive. She spent countless hours scouring platforms like eBay, Adverts, and Done Deal for vintage treasures. One standout find was the 1960s wallpaper that now adorns the guest WC and the wardrobe area of their son rian’s bedroom.
Eamonn’s brother Bryan played a crucial role in the renovation, securing trade deals on materials like the terrazzo-effect tiles used in the home’s hardwearing areas. “Bryan was horrified,” Liz laughs, but his help was invaluable in bringing their vision to life.
A Kitchen Full of surprises
The kitchen is perhaps the most surprising space in the home. Designed with a mid-century aesthetic, it features a vintage table that serves as both a functional workspace and a nostalgic nod to the past. The room is a testament to the couple’s ability to blend old and new, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Clever Storage Solutions
Storage was a key consideration throughout the renovation. Liz and Eamonn incorporated clever solutions to keep the home clutter-free without sacrificing style. From built-in cabinets to multifunctional furniture, every detail was carefully planned to maximize space and maintain the home’s cohesive design.
Key Highlights of the Renovation
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Living Room | No fireplace, new couch, nicknamed “living womb” |
| vintage Wallpaper | 1960s design in guest WC and Rian’s bedroom |
| Kitchen | Mid-century table, blend of old and new |
| Storage Solutions | Built-in cabinets, multifunctional furniture |
| Materials | Terrazzo-effect tiles sourced through trade deals |
A Home That Reflects Their Values
For Liz and Eamonn, this renovation was about more than just creating a beautiful space—it was about building a home that reflects their values. From their environmental choices to their commitment to sustainable sourcing, every decision was made with intention.
As Liz puts it, “We wanted a home that felt joyful, and I think we’ve achieved that.” And indeed, they have. Their home is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, proving that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, any space can be transformed into something truly special.For more inspiring home transformations, check out this related story on Joyful Living: A Family Home Transformed with Clever Storage and a Kitchen Full of Surprises.When it comes to home renovations, practicality frequently enough trumps luxury. Liz and Eamonn, a couple with a keen eye for design, recently shared their journey of transforming their home with a focus on affordability and durability. Their story is a testament to how creativity and resourcefulness can lead to stunning results without breaking the bank.
“We had to find an option that we could afford,” Liz explains, reflecting on their decision to forgo a high-end designer kitchen. Rather, they opted for cost-effective solutions that didn’t compromise on style. For instance, poured concrete floors were replaced with terrazzo-look tiles, offering a similar aesthetic at a fraction of the cost.
Eamonn’s initial fascination with Buster and Punch fixtures—a UK-based brand known for its stylish light switches and door handles—was short-lived. “He was hooked for a few hours,” Liz recalls, until they discovered a more budget-friendly alternative. This pragmatic approach allowed them to allocate resources wisely, ensuring every corner of their home was both functional and visually appealing.
The couple’s home was designed to withstand the rigors of daily life, especially with their active children. “The boys have played Nerf gun wars through the property, and nothing has been damaged,” Liz notes proudly. This durability was a key consideration in their choice of materials and finishes, proving that a family-friendly home can still exude sophistication.
Their mid-century kitchen table, captured in a photograph by Visual Feasts Photography, stands as a centerpiece of their design philosophy. it’s a blend of timeless style and practicality,embodying the essence of their renovation journey.
Key Takeaways from Liz and Eamonn’s Renovation Journey
| Aspect | details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Design Philosophy | Practicality and affordability without compromising on style. |
| Flooring | Terrazzo-look tiles replaced poured concrete for a cost-effective solution. |
| Fixtures | Opted for affordable alternatives to high-end brands like Buster and Punch. |
| Durability | Chose hardwearing materials to withstand family activities. |
| Centerpiece | Mid-century kitchen table as a focal point of the design. |
Liz and Eamonn’s story is a refreshing reminder that a beautiful home doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.By prioritizing practicality and making smart choices, they’ve created a space that’s both stylish and resilient. For more inspiration on budget-friendly home renovations, explore Visual Feasts Photography’s portfolio or discover affordable design alternatives at Buster and Punch.
A Tale of Creativity and Resilience: How Liz and Eamonn Transformed Their Home
When Liz and eamonn set out to design their home, they faced a unique challenge: creating a space that was both functional and stylish, while accommodating the needs of their growing family. Their journey, documented in a recent feature, is a testament to their ingenuity and resourcefulness.
A Bed with a Story
At the heart of their home is the Habitat bed, a piece of furniture with a rich history. “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,” the article reveals. Liz took matters into her own hands, crafting a custom headboard that not only elevated the bed’s design but also served a practical purpose. “Liz made the headboard, designing it to conceal a shelf behind for books and other bedside items as there wasn’t room for lockers either side of the bed.”
A Home Built to Last
The couple’s home is designed to withstand the test of time—and the energy of their children. “The house needed to be hardwearing. The boys have played Nerf gun wars through the property and nothing has been damaged,” the article notes. This durability is a reflection of their thoughtful approach to design, ensuring that every element serves a purpose.
A Splash of Color
Color plays a pivotal role in their home’s aesthetic.The open-plan kitchen diner features bold blackbird yellow, while the living room is “drenched in a rich terracotta shade.” these vibrant hues create a warm and inviting atmosphere,showcasing their ability to balance functionality with style.
Design Expertise in Action
Liz and eamonn’s background in design gave them a unique advantage. “Where the pair had a head start on most ordinary mortals was in their design background,and their ability to create animations to help illustrate those ideas,” the article explains. This skill allowed them to effectively communicate their vision to builders and fabricators, ensuring that every detail was executed to perfection.
Key highlights of Liz and Eamonn’s Home
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Habitat Bed | Custom headboard with concealed shelf for books and bedside items. |
| Durable Design | Built to withstand active family life,including Nerf gun wars.|
| Color Palette | Bold blackbird yellow in the kitchen diner, rich terracotta in the living room.|
| Design Expertise | Use of animations to convey ideas to builders and fabricators. |
Liz and eamonn’s home is more than just a living space—it’s a reflection of their creativity, resilience, and commitment to family. Their story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to transform their home into a haven of functionality and style.
For more insights into innovative home design, explore The Irish Times’ Home & Design section.
What’s your favourite design hack for a family-friendly home? Share your thoughts in the comments below!Transforming a House into a Home: A Family’s Creative Journey
When Liz and Eamonn decided to renovate their home, they didn’t just focus on aesthetics—they turned the process into a family adventure. “We wanted the boys to see that you can make your house fun as well as being a home,” Liz explains.From late-night site visits by torchlight to hands-on involvement in design decisions, their children were at the heart of the project.
The couple’s creativity shone through in every detail. As a notable example, the Habitat bed in the principal bedroom had been stored in Eamonn’s parents’ shed as 2008, as it didn’t fit in their previous rental homes. Liz took matters into her own hands, crafting a custom headboard that not only complemented the bed but also concealed a shelf for books and bedside essentials. “There wasn’t room for lockers either side of the bed,” she notes, highlighting the ingenuity behind the design.
The renovation wasn’t without its challenges. liz admits that homework and packed lunch duties sometimes took a backseat as the family poured their energy into the project.Yet, the result was a home that reflects their personalities and values.
One of the standout features of the home is the collection of rugs sourced from Carpet U2,a company in Athens. Liz scoured the 80% and 50% off sections, finding treasures that added both beauty and meaning to their space. “These were made by hand by nomadic tribes,” she says. “As a weaver, the pile rugs told pictorial stories.”
The family’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. By involving their children and embracing the process, Liz and Eamonn have created a home that is not only functional but also deeply personal.
| Key Highlights of the Renovation |
|————————————–|
| Custom Headboard: designed by Liz to include a hidden shelf for books and essentials. |
| Family Involvement: Children participated in site visits and design decisions. |
| Unique Rugs: Handmade by nomadic tribes, sourced from Carpet U2 in Athens. |
| Creative Solutions: Repurposed furniture,like the Habitat bed stored since 2008. |
For more inspiring home renovation stories, explore The Irish Times’ Home & Design section.
What’s your favorite way to make a house feel like a home? Share your thoughts in the comments below!Handmade Rugs: A Tale of Craftsmanship and Unexpected Costs
In the heart of Athens, amidst the bustling aisles of Carpet U2, Liz discovered a treasure trove of handmade rugs. Scouring the 80 and 50 per cent off sections, she unearthed pieces that were more than just floor coverings—they were stories woven by nomadic tribes.”These were made by hand by nomadic tribes. as a weaver,the pile rugs told pictorial stories,” Liz remarked,highlighting the artistry behind each piece.
The journey to furnish her home, though, came with its own set of challenges. With a budget of €270,000, Liz enlisted the expertise of Sean Healy from Lauragh Construction. Healy managed to secure most of the building materials before the steep price hikes during the Covid pandemic. Yet, unforeseen duties pushed the total cost to approximately €330,000—a reminder of the unpredictable nature of construction projects.
The rugs, sourced from Carpet U2, became a focal point of the home’s design. Each piece, crafted by hand, carried the legacy of its creators, blending functionality with artistry.Liz’s experience underscores the value of investing in unique, handmade items that tell a story, even when budgets stretch beyond initial expectations.
| Key Details | Summary |
|——————|————-|
| Budget | €270,000 |
| Final Cost | €330,000 |
| Builder | Sean Healy, Lauragh Construction |
| Rug Source | Carpet U2, Athens |
| Rug Craftsmanship | Handmade by nomadic tribes |
For those inspired by Liz’s journey, exploring anchorstudio.ie offers a glimpse into innovative design solutions. Whether you’re renovating or simply seeking to add a touch of artistry to your space, the story of these handmade rugs serves as a testament to the beauty of craftsmanship and the unexpected twists of home improvement.
