This glamorous Donegal new-build was inspired by its owners’ time abroad
They worked with the architects and suppliers to incorporate their love of open plan living and add warmth and luxury.
Travel can broaden your tastes and expose you to many different influences, and this was certainly the case for the owners of this new-build home in Donegal.
They had owned the spectacular site for many years, but decided to build just before the pandemic hit. “I think Covid made us realise in particular that it was time to put down roots closer to family in Ireland and Wales,” the couple explain. Having previously lived in Dubai, the architects’ plans were drawn up by a firm there, so the duo could be fully involved in the design. They then collaborated with an architect in Ireland to finish the vision.
Having spent 30 years in Dubai, the couple had become accustomed to open plan living, and wanted this translate to their new home. “The climate there is obviously much different to Ireland,” they acknowledge, “so opting for open plan in a cold climate is a challenge, but I think we achieved it well whilst keeping the spaces cosy and most importantly, warm.”
This also influenced their choice of colours and materials, always wanting the space to feel warm. “With open plan, going for cooler colours wasn’t going to help our cause to get a cosy feel, so we went for warm autumn colours with lots of textures and a very natural feel. We used lots of wool, stone, linen and wood.”
They worked closely with Creative Stone & Tile in Co Tyrone to choose the perfect tiles to complement the rest of the space. “We only used two types of tile for the floor, which either reflected wood or concrete, both colours are neutral and worked well conducting the underfloor heating. Although it’s open plan, the continuity of tile throughout rooms and also to the outside makes the space feel like it all flows seamlessly.”
They found the advice given invaluable. “It was a pleasure working with Creative Stone & Tile. Often, it’s difficult to explain what you want when you haven’t seen it yet! Paul knew instinctively the look we were trying to achieve, so made it easy when trying to navigate the vast choice they had available. He was incredibly supportive, envisioning that what we had chosen would work and was very invested in the end result. I’m delighted our finished home is a great reflection of what they do best.”
A favourite space in the home is the couple’s master bathroom. “It feels so luxurious. The metallic tile is plain, but we’ve added texture with a herringbone in the same colour and just a hint of onyx. It feels very much like a hotel spa, and we just love it!”
Photography: Peter Bruce Photography
This article was originally published in March 2024.
Also Read
