RTE Room To Improve viewers were left asking the same question tonight after Dermot Bannon helped out a Wicklow couple who were looking to downsize into their new forever home.
On Sunday night's show, Dermot worked with Carmel and Hugh O’ Neill from Blessington in Co Wicklow, who may look familiar to eagle eyed viewers of the show as they featured in last year’s series. And many viewers were left asking if the show was a repeat, but it wasn't as in the previous series the couple's daughter Hilary and her family moved into her old family home which was renovated into a very modern family home.
Now Carmel and Hugh wanted to downsize to a brand new build on their land with its stunning views overlooking Blessington Lakes. Along with their budget of €230,000 the couple wanted a home which was going to be manageable for them both going into their later years in life.
Read more: RTE Room To Improve viewers left surprised over budget
The new house was being built on the same grounds of their own home, so Dermot was very conscious of giving both families as much privacy and space as possible. After an eight month wait for the relevant planning permission for their new home, Dermot and his team immediately set to work.
At times, Dermot and the couple had to make compromises on things such as front door colours, furniture and other items. But ultimately, the finished house was a stunning, modern bungalow that allowed for the mesmerising views of the beautiful Blessington Lakes to be seen in all its glory.
However, the couple's budget did have to stretch €20,000 over budget to include in their fitted windows and wardrobes. Both Carmel and Hugh were "really happy" with the kitchen, complete with sleek grey countertops and incredible views overlooking Blessington Lakes.
Carmel referred to the finished shape of the kitchen which shows off the incredible views, saying on the show: "I'm really happy with the kitchen, I had this idea in my head for the shape but you were absolutely right Dermot. You were absolutely right about that one and I just love it."
The couple thanked Dermot and his team for their hard work. Carmel said: "Thank you so much Dermot. Thank you for giving us our forever home."
Meanwhile, Dermot described the house as having "one of the most phenomenal views" in the country, and wished the couple well in their new home. Social media users flocked to Twitter during the episode to voice their thoughts.
One person wrote on Twitter: "Can we just all catch up… it’s not a repeat." A second said: "I usually buzz off Twitter during #RoomToImprove but people asking if this is a repeat is ruining it tonight. Let’s just commence the usual sarcastic and begrudging comments."
A third added: "Everyone freaking out it's a repeat. It's not, it's the sequel we all deserve."
Meanwhile, other social media users were charmed by couple Carmel and Hugh. One person commented: "Oh I love Carmel and Hugh we must protect them at all costs." A second joked: "Every person under 40: These are just my parents."
A fourth added: "The house was fab! Great couple… good characters
Room To Improve is on RTE One Sundays from 9.30pm.
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