news-21102024-223943

A beautiful home in Belfast has earned the last spot in the final of BBC NI’s ‘House Of The Year’ competition. Judges Jane Larmour, James Fairley, and Patricia McGinnis had the difficult task of choosing five finalists from a pool of 15 local homes. The Grand Final, which was recorded at Custom House Square, will determine which home will be named Northern Ireland’s ‘House of the Year’.

During the latest episode of the show hosted by design expert Laurence Llewelyn Bowen, ‘Bijoux’ in East Belfast was announced as one of the finalists. The owners, Donna and Alan, have been renting the property for a decade. Their landlord has allowed them to put their personal touch on the interiors, resulting in a unique and decadent style. Donna initially used an industrial theme and then added soft touches like cushions, pictures, and textures to create a cozy atmosphere. The house now boasts a blend of vintage and modern pieces, with every corner reflecting Donna’s personal style. The backyard has also been transformed into a relaxing space with its own ‘Belfast Bali Beach Hut’.

The winner of ‘House Of The Year 2024’ will be revealed on Monday, 28 October at 8pm on BBC One Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer. The search for the next ‘House of the Year’ in 2025 has already begun, and interested individuals can find more information on how to apply on bbc.co.uk/houseoftheyear.

Explore the stunning interiors of Bijoux in Belfast in our gallery below! Photos courtesy of BBC Northern Ireland/Elyse Kennedy.

In addition to the intricate details of Bijoux’s transformation, it is interesting to note the impact of personal style and creativity in home decor. The story of Donna and Alan’s journey to make their rented house a personalized and cozy space is a testament to the power of design in creating a sense of belonging and comfort. The inclusion of a ‘Belfast Bali Beach Hut’ in the backyard showcases how a small outdoor area can be transformed into a unique and relaxing retreat.

Furthermore, the ‘House Of The Year’ competition highlights the diversity and creativity of homeowners in Northern Ireland. It serves as a platform to celebrate innovative design, personal style, and the art of turning a house into a home. The search for the next ‘House of the Year’ in 2025 is an opportunity for more homeowners to showcase their creativity and passion for interior design. By sharing these stories and spaces, the competition inspires others to explore their own creativity and make their homes truly their own.