Will Cork property win Home Of The Year?

After visiting 21 extraordinary homes across Ireland, the judges will pick a winner in the final of Home Of The Year next week.

Hugh Wallace, Sara Cosgrove, and Amanda Bone first get to have a heated debate over the seven inspirational finalists - but which property will they choose as the winner when the episode is shown on RTÉ1 on Tuesday at 8.30pm?

Among the contenders is a stunning West Cork former schoolhouse home, owned by artists Ian Humphreys and Sarah MacCarthy.

Amanda gave it 10 out of 10 in the heats, praising the size of the entrance, the beautiful main room, and the artists’ studio, adding. “I’ll have to stop talking now before I start crying.”

Owner Ian said he fell in love with the area and the old schoolhouse, which was built in the 1900s, some 20 years ago, and finally got the chance to buy it in 2019.

They carried out a number of internal renovations, such as removing plaster to expose the original brick work and levelling the floor in the great room. Their aim was to bring out the character of building and restore it back to its former glory.

Ian and Sarah see themselves as “caretakers” of the property.

They describe their home as creative with a brilliant atmosphere and say it’s a great place for parties, entertaining and playing music.