Room to Improve Season 6 Episode 4 Donnybrook
- TV-PG
- October 13, 2012
- 50 min
Room to Improve is an Irish television show that follows architect and presenter Dermot Bannon as he helps homeowners transform their homes. In season 6 episode 4, titled Donnybrook, Dermot is approached by a couple looking to modernize and extend their 1960s semi-detached house in the affluent Dublin suburb of Donnybrook.
The clients, Tim and Susan, have lived in the house for almost 20 years and are eager to update it to better suit their family's needs. They want to add a two-story extension to the back of the house, creating a more open-plan living space and a larger kitchen. They also want to renovate the existing bedrooms and bathrooms, and to add a separate study for Tim, who works from home.
Dermot's challenge is to design a modern extension that complements, rather than overwhelms, the original house. He must also find ways to maximize the use of space, while keeping to the clients' budget of €200,000 (approximately $232,000 USD).
As he begins his work, Dermot discovers that the existing house has several quirks that must be taken into account. For example, the initial design has been altered over the years, resulting in a disjointed layout. The ceiling height is also lower than in modern homes, which makes it difficult to create a sense of spaciousness.
To overcome these challenges, Dermot comes up with some innovative solutions. For instance, he decides to raise the ceiling height in the new extension, which will create a greater sense of openness and light. He also designs a fold-out desk for Tim's study, which can be neatly stowed away when not in use.
Throughout the episode, viewers see Dermot working closely with Tim and Susan to refine their vision for their home. He takes their feedback on board, making tweaks and adjustments to the design to ensure that it meets their needs and reflects their personal style.
As always, there are a few hiccups along the way. The build hits a few snags, such as a delay in receiving the custom-made kitchen, which threatens to put the timeline off track. There are also a few moments of tension as Dermot and the clients debate the best way to lay out the living space.
Ultimately, however, the project comes together beautifully. The new extension seamlessly blends with the existing house, creating a bright, open-plan living area that the family can enjoy for years to come. Tim's new study provides a peaceful retreat from the rest of the house, while the renovated bedrooms and bathrooms offer a comfortable and stylish living space.
In Donnybrook, Room to Improve delivers another masterclass in home renovation. Viewers will be captivated by Dermot's creative approach, as well as by the unique challenges presented by the clients' existing home. Overall, it's an inspiring and entertaining episode that showcases the power of good design to transform even the most outdated of spaces.