41. Top 3 renovation mistakes ft. the Rip It Up podcast
In this collaborative episode, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan joins the hosts of the Rip It Up podcast Jenny Sheehan (@workerscottage) and Kate O'Driscoll (@victorianrathmines) also a previous guest to discuss the most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them. They emphasize the importance of planning layouts for functionality, budgeting for interior finishes, and the critical role of lighting in creating a welcoming atmosphere. The conversation is rich with insights and practical tips for anyone considering a renovation project. Takeaways Planning your layouts is crucial for functionality Consider long-term needs when designing spaces Budget for interior finishes early in the renovation process Get multiple quotes to avoid overspending Lighting can transform a space and should be planned early Think about how you live in your space, not just aesthetics Storage solutions are key to maintaining a tidy home Flexibility in design allows for future changes Don't overlook the importance of electrical planning for lighting Choose timeless materials for long-lasting appeal
--------
54:15
40. Bringing personality to contemporary spaces with Courtney McDonnell Architects
In this episode, architect Courtney McDonnell discusses her journey in architecture, her design philosophy, and the evolution of client needs in residential projects. She shares insights into her award-winning projects, including the innovative Pink House and the transformative Griffith Avenue project, highlighting the importance of integrating interior and exterior design while addressing contemporary living requirements. In this conversation, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Courtney McDonnell explore various aspects of contemporary design, focusing on the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, material choices, and the importance of personal style in creating unique living environments. They discuss the challenges of navigating design trends and emphasize the significance of feeling comfortable in one's home. The conversation also highlights the role of color, texture, and practical materials in achieving a cohesive and inviting aesthetic. Some key takeaways Courtney won two awards for her project, Griffith Avenue. She established her practice in 2017 after a diverse career in design. Her approach focuses on creating cohesive interior and exterior designs. Clients often seek innovative solutions for maximizing space. There is a shift away from traditional open-plan living. The Pink House project showcases a unique blend of color and design. Courtney emphasizes the importance of understanding client personalities. She advocates for clever modifications of existing spaces. The Griffith Avenue project involved a complete transformation of a dated home. Light and space are central themes in her architectural designs. The garden was in amazing condition, requiring no landscaping budget. Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances functionality. Creating cozy living spaces involves thoughtful layout and design. Achieving a minimalist look can be challenging with varied materials. Green tones can add warmth and depth to a design. Porcelain is a practical alternative to natural stone finishes. Understanding how spaces make you feel is crucial in design. Editing design choices helps in navigating overwhelming options. Transforming standard homes into unique spaces is achievable with thoughtful design.
--------
56:21
39. How to solo self-build with Jade Kirwan @my_solo_self_build
In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, Jade shares her inspiring journey of self-building her own home in Ireland. From the initial decision to take on such a project to the challenges of planning permissions, budgeting, and managing local trades, Jade provides insights into the realities of building a home solo. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, making sacrifices, and learning through the process. Jade's story serves as a motivational guide for anyone considering a self-build project, highlighting that with determination and the right mindset, it is possible to create your dream home. In this conversation, Tanya and Jade discuss the complexities and challenges of self-building a home, focusing on budgeting, material management, and the balance between DIY efforts and hiring professionals. Jade discusses the realities of budgeting, prioritizing structural elements over aesthetics, and the emotional rollercoaster of the self-building process. Her story serves as a motivational guide for others considering a similar path, highlighting the value of perseverance and community support.
--------
1:01:03
38. Working with an architect (Part 1) with Sarah McNulty of McNulty Smyth
In this episode, architect Sarah McNulty shares her journey in architecture, emphasizing the importance of empathy in understanding client needs. She discusses her experiences in building her own home, the diverse projects she undertakes, and the significance of a well-defined brief. The conversation highlights the challenges of budget constraints, the importance of proportions in design, and the collaborative nature of architecture. The conversation also highlights the significance of solar gain in design, emphasizing the balance between natural light and comfort in living spaces. Sarah also reflects on a case study of a 1930s renovation, illustrating how client needs evolve and how architects can adapt to create functional and beautiful spaces. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate process of architectural design, from initial sketches to the complexities of planning regulations and tendering. Sarah and Tanya discuss the importance of detailed drawings and bills of quantities in ensuring accurate pricing and project management. Takeaways Empathy is crucial for architects to understand client needs. A well-defined brief leads to better architectural outcomes. Budget constraints often require compromises in design. Proportions in design significantly affect the feel of a space. Good design should reflect the client's personality and lifestyle. Collaboration between architects and interior designers enhances the final result. Understanding the emotional response to a space is essential. Architects should consider both interiors and exteriors from the start. The design process is iterative and may require adjustments on site. Investing time in the brief stage pays off in the long run. The design process begins with sketching to explore options. AutoCAD can make designs feel too rigid compared to sketches. Understanding planning regulations is crucial for project timelines. Detailed drawings are essential for accurate tendering and pricing. Bills of quantities help ensure builders price projects accurately. Building relationships with contractors is key during the tender stage. Solar gain is important for optimizing natural light in homes. Value engineering can help clients make cost-effective design choices. The architectural process can take a year from initial discussions to site work. Consultations with architects can improve project outcomes.
--------
58:25
37. Crafting your personal style with fashion & interiors journalist Sarah Macken
Interior designer & host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews fashion and interiors journalist Sarah Macken (aka @ohegartysarah) about personal style, its evolution, and the intersection of fashion and interiors. They discuss the importance of authenticity in style, the tools available for developing a personal aesthetic, and the impact of social media on fashion choices. Sarah shares her journey from fashion intern to editor and freelancer, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's preferences and the influence of various cultural elements on personal style. The discussion also touches on navigating trends, the language of interiors, and the joy of creating unique spaces. Some key takeaways: Personal style evolves over time and is influenced by experiences. The three-word method can help distill personal style into practical, aspirational, and emotional descriptors. Social media can create pressure to conform to trends, but authenticity is key. Exploring various forms of art can enhance personal style and interior design. It's important to assess whether purchases align with personal style rather than trends. Finding unique pieces can be a rewarding process, especially in local markets. Balancing personal style with trends requires thoughtful consideration and experimentation. The language of interiors is less defined than fashion, allowing for more instinctive choices. Creating joyful spaces can be achieved through small, thoughtful purchases. Minimalism can be overused; it's essential to question if it truly resonates with personal taste. Follow Sarah @ohegartysarah on Instagram Follow Tanya and the podcast at @tanyaneufeldflanagan and @theinteriorspodcast Get the latest on interiors and renovation tips and deep dives on podcast topics by joining Tanya's Substack or subscribing to The Interiors Newsletter
An interior design show aimed to help you elevate your space in conversations with industry professionals and homeowners in Ireland. Hosted by Tanya Neufeld Flanagan, expat and interior designer based in Dublin, Ireland.
Ireland