Fab revamp for Hugh’s House

A HOUSE that provides a place to stay for families of seriously ill children who are patients at Temple Street, Holles Street, the Coombe and Rotunda hospitals has been given a fantastic makeover.

Hugh’s House in Drumcondra is a special place for many families from all over Ireland and sofa retailer DFS organised the revamp with Nine Yards Design to mark its 50th anniversary.

Hugh’s House not only provides accommodation 365 days a year free of charge in a warm, supportive, homely environment, but this unique space means that families can stay together and do not have to be separated while they are going through the trauma of dealing with a seriously ill child.

There is always a waiting list for Hugh’s House and this project has created space for an extra bedroom, enabling another family to stay.

The main sitting room has also been given a makeover, to create a space for parents to relax in the evenings.

Maria Brennan of Hugh’s House explained how important it was to families with ill children.

“We work with families whose lives have been changed in an instant through illness, accident or other misfortune,” she said.

“They arrive here, often late at night, many of them in shock, leaving their home and all their support network behind.

“In many cases there is nowhere for them to stay at the hospital with their sick child or premature baby. Hugh’s House was set up to ensure that people didn’t have to sleep in cars, on floors, or in expensive hotels when going through such a traumatic time.

“We rely totally on the generosity of the public and are so appreciative of the support that DFS and Nine Yards Design have given us to make this a beautiful space and a real home away from home.”

John Kelly, DFS Ireland Manager, said the retailer was honoured to have supported the makeover.

“DFS has happily supplied sofas to thousands of homes throughout Ireland,” he continued.

“We truly understand the benefits and importance of a comfortable home and so giving back in this way has been a real privilege. 

“Anyone who walks through the door of Hugh’s House can see immediately what a special place it is.

“Thanks to the amazing team here, Nine Yards Design and all the other suppliers including Dulux Paint, Scatterbox, Urban flooring, Nook Design and Dusty Boy Designs for supporting the makeover.”

Yvonne Mulligan from Nine Yards Design explained why the company got involved in the makeover project.

“Both as a mum of three boys and a designer I am so conscious of the importance of home and having a comfortable place to stay,” she said.

“We all want to support the families of seriously ill children. In working with DFS to transform this space I want to give parents a place to relax and recharge when they stay here during this traumatic time in their lives.

“And of course, the huge bonus now is that we have created room for another family to stay.”  

The makeover is one of 50 Acts of Comfort being carried out by DFS in its milestone anniversary year.