Rip It Up: The Renovations Podcast

Jenny Sheahan and Kate O'Driscoll

In the Rip it Up podcast, RTE's Home of the Year winner Jenny and finalist Kate step the listener through everything they've learned in buying a wreck of a house and turning it into a dream home. They demystify the entire renovation journey, from finding the right house, all the way through the renovation process, from picking a builder, to choosing wallpaper. No brick will be left unturned.

As well as being a management consultant, Jenny writes a weekly home column in a national Irish newspaper as well as being a regular guest on national Irish radio.

Kate, before branching out into renovation consulting full time, worked in technical roles in engineering and sustainability.

Together, they make an expert team, ready to inspire and motivate would-be renovators and DIYers alike. Follow them on Instagram to see more of their renovation journeys - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines

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79 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes79

Newest first

Thursday · 18 min
The Best Renovation Advice We Heard This Year: Trade Secrets Wrap-Up
After weeks of hearing from builders, electricians, plumbers, painters, and kitchen designers, we're wrapping up our Trade Secrets series by looking back at the advice that stuck with us the most. In this season finale, we revisit the biggest lessons from the experts, share the top renovation tips they'll be taking into every future project, and reveal what they think homeowners should prioritise if they want a smoother, less stressful renovation. What we cover The decisions you need to make earlier than you think Where it's worth spending more - and where you can save your money Why communication is the secret to a smoother renovation The biggest mistakes homeowners make time and time again The advice that surprised us most from this season's trade experts Our own biggest renovation lessons after multiple projects What's coming next for the podcast Key takeaways Understand the renovation process before you begin Invest in the things that are difficult to change later Don't rush to furnish or finish everything at once Ask questions and attend every important site walkthrough Design your home around the way you actually live, not someone else's Pinterest board We'll also be taking a short break during August while we recharge. We'll be re-sharing some of our most popular renovation episodes throughout the month before returning in September with brand-new episodes. And we'd love your input. Should we bring back more trades? Or would you like to hear from architects, quantity surveyors, interior designers, mortgage experts and other professionals involved in the renovation process? Or anything else?? Let us know below! Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
July 23 · 25 min
What Your Paint Expert Wishes You Knew - Trade Secrets
In this episode of Trade Secrets, we get top tips from paint professional Karena Hyland, Research & Development Manager at Fleetwood Paints. From surface preparation and choosing the right paint finish to how to buy the correct amount of paint and invest in quality products, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your paintwork stand the test of time. What we cover Why preparation takes longer than most people expect The importance of filling, sanding and allowing repairs to cure properly Where it's worth spending more on paint, and where it isn't Why durable, washable paints are worth the investment in busy homes How to calculate the right amount of paint for your project The value of quality brushes, rollers and masking tape Why different rooms need different paint finishes Common mistakes people make when choosing paint based on colour alone Key takeaways Great paint jobs are built on great preparation Choose paint for performance as well as colour Invest in quality products for high-traffic areas Don't rush surface preparation or curing times The cheapest paint job is rarely the best value in the long run Items mentioned Wooster paint brushes Purdy paint rollers Fleetwood Prestige Multi-surface paint finish Fleetwood low tack Washi Masking tape Fleetwood Easyclean Washable Matt (ideal for kitchen areas) Whether you're choosing a painter, taking the DIY route, painting a single room or tackling an entire house, this episode will help you achieve a better finish, and avoid some very expensive mistakes. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
July 16 · 28 min
What Your Kitchen Designer Wishes You Knew - Trade Secrets
Everyone dreams about their new kitchen, but what does a kitchen designer wish every homeowner knew before they started planning one? In this episode of Trade Secrets, we hear from Dawn from Savvy Kitchens, the designer behind both Kate's kitchens and Jennifer's own kitchen renovation. Dawn shares the five biggest lessons she's learned from designing kitchens every day, from planning layouts before your drawings are finalised to avoiding the trap of designing for Instagram instead of real life. What we cover Why your kitchen should be designed before construction drawings are signed off How kitchen layouts influence glazing, door positions, electrics and plumbing Where your kitchen budget is best spent, and where you can save Why expensive features aren't always the best investment The importance of communicating changes early Why every kitchen should be designed around your family's daily routine Common mistakes people make when copying Pinterest and Instagram kitchens Practical examples from Jennifer and Kate's own kitchen renovations Key takeaways Design your kitchen around how you actually live, not how you wish you lived Bring your kitchen designer in as early as possible Invest in the features you'll use every single day Don't be afraid to challenge assumptions and ask questions A beautiful kitchen is one that works effortlessly for your lifestyle Whether you're choosing an IKEA kitchen or a fully bespoke design, these are the principles that make every kitchen function better. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
July 9 · 1 min
Rip It Up Podcast Trailer
Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
July 9 · 28 min
What Your Plumber Wishes You Knew - Trade Secrets
Every renovation has a plumber, but what does your plumber wish you knew before the walls are closed up? In this episode of Trade Secrets, we hear from an experienced plumber who shares the five biggest lessons every homeowner should know before starting a renovation. From planning bathrooms properly to investing in the plumbing you'll never see, this episode is packed with practical advice that can help you avoid costly mistakes later on. What we cover: Why bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms need to be planned much earlier than most people realise Why quality pipework matters more than expensive taps The plumbing components worth investing in from day one Why every homeowner should attend their plumbing walkthrough Common bathroom layout mistakes that affect how the space functions The importance of thinking beyond Pinterest-perfect bathrooms How good plumbing decisions save money in the long run Key takeaways: Lock in bathroom layouts before first fix begins Spend money behind the walls, not just on the finishes Walk every room with your plumber before pipework is installed Good communication prevents expensive changes Design bathrooms for everyday life, not just for photos This episode is a reminder that the best plumbing is the plumbing you never have to think about. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
July 2 · 26 min
What Your Builder Wishes You Knew - Trade Secrets
This episode is PACKED full of tips straight from the horse's mouth - Jason Doyle of JEMI Construction, Jenny's own main contractor. In this episode of Trade Secrets, we're joined by Jason who shares the five biggest tips from homeowners, and lessons he's learned from years of managing home renovations. From when to order kitchens and windows, to where you should spend and save your money, Jason shares practical advice that could save you delays, stress and expensive mistakes. What we cover Why kitchens, windows and other long lead-time items need to be ordered early Where your renovation budget is best spent (and where it isn't) Why trendy finishes aren't always the right choice The importance of clear, direct communication with your builder How to avoid one of the biggest renovation mistakes: under-budgeting Why relationships with trusted suppliers keep projects running smoothly Budgeting for finishes, fittings and all the hidden extras Key takeaways Plan the big decisions before work starts Invest in the structure; you can always upgrade furniture later Research trends before committing to them Communicate early, often and directly Keep a detailed budget and track every decision Guest Jason Doyle, JEMI Construction Jason has spent years managing full home renovations and extensions, coordinating multiple trades and helping homeowners navigate complex projects from demolition through to completion. In this episode, he shares the advice he wishes every client knew before starting a renovation. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
June 25 · 25 min
What Your Electrician Wishes You Knew - Trade Secrets
Every renovation has an electrician - and this episode is packed full of things they wish you knew. In the first episode of our new Trade Secrets series, we're joined by Ronan Byrne from Eleven Electrical to uncover the five biggest lessons homeowners should know before planning their electrical work. From socket positions and lighting layouts to future-proofing and avoiding costly mistakes, this episode is packed with practical advice that can save you time, money and years of frustration. What we cover Why you need to plan furniture layouts much earlier than you think How bed positions, sofas and TVs affect socket placement What is worth spending money Where you should save The most common mistakes homeowners make - and how to avoid them The importance of sharing updated drawings and communicating changes quickly Why electrical walkthroughs are one of the most important stages of a renovation Lighting, switching, Wi-Fi points, demister pads and all the details that are easy to overlook Key takeaways Plan rooms around how you'll actually use them Future-proof while walls are open Communicate changes early and often Walk through every room before first fix Remember: you're the one who has to live with the decisions This episode is a practical guide to creating an electrical plan that works not just on paper, but in real life. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
June 18 · 37 min
The House That Divided Us - Kendall Jenner’s Mountain Home | Unpacking Iconic Homes
In the final episode of this season of Unpacking Iconic Homes, we head to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to explore Kendall Jenner’s mountain retreat, designed by acclaimed interior designer Heidi Caillier. This is definitely the most divisive home we've covered. Kate loves its warmth, personality and unexpected elements. Jenny thinks the bold design choices start competing with each other rather than working together. From Viola marble and burgundy bathrooms to giant floral sofas, patterned wallpaper, and eclectic vintage-inspired details, we unpack what makes this house so memorable - and why it has sparked such strong reactions online. What we cover: Heidi Caillier's signature layered and eclectic design style Why this home feels completely different from Kendall's previous Los Angeles house The rise of cosy, collected interiors and the rejection of minimalist perfection Pattern mixing, colour clashes and where personality becomes visual noise Why some people see warmth and others see chaos The psychology of "lived-in" luxury What makes a home feel cohesive (or not!!) Which design ideas are worth borrowing and which are best left to Wyoming mountain chalets Design details mentioned Viola marble kitchen Lacanche range cooker Lee Jofa Hollyhock fabric sofa Design Frères stools Jefferson West bookshelves Zia Tile Farrow & Ball Brinjal Farrow & Ball Salon Drab Lisa Fine Textiles wallpaper The Water Monopoly yellow sink Charles P. Rogers bed Finline Willow chair (similar to blue armchair in main bedroom) Things we loved Open fireplaces Timber-clad bathrooms The wood kitchen island The kitchen flooring Kendall's use of books, art and personal collections The sense of individuality running through the home The big debate: Does the house feel beautifully layered and collected? Or does it feel like several strong design ideas competing for attention? This episode is less about whether the house is objectively "good" and more about what happens when a designer prioritises personality over perfection. Link to Kendall's Architectural Digest house tour: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/kendall-jenner-mountain-home Link to Heidi Caillier's stunning portfolio: https://heidicaillierdesign.com/portfolio/ Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
June 11 · 24 min
#65 Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment - Unpacking Iconic Homes
In this episode of Unpacking Iconic Homes, we explore one of the most famous interiors in television history: Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment from Sex and the City. Unlike many of the homes we've covered, Carrie’s apartment isn't iconic because it was luxurious or perfectly designed. It's iconic because it conveyed Carrie's personality and a lifestyle many of us coveted. From the walk-in wardrobe and writing desk to the mismatched furniture and mint-green walls, every corner reflected the character who lived there. We unpack why this tiny(ish) Manhattan apartment captured the imagination of an entire generation - and what it can teach us about creating homes with personality rather than perfection. What we cover: Why Carrie's apartment became as famous as the character herself The fantasy of independent city living in New York How the apartment expresses Carrie's personality The famous walk-in wardrobe The writing desk as the true heart of the home Mixing furniture, colours and styles without everything matching How the apartment evolved alongside Carrie throughout the series Design details discussed: The iconic brownstone stoop Coloured walls - mint green / dusty blue / lavender / blush Parquet floors Layout - circular floorplan with kitchen in the middle Eclectic vintage-inspired furnishings Open shelving and personal collections The writing nook at the window Carrie’s walk-in closet Art, books and meaningful objects used as décor How to recreate this look: Use your books and magazines as decor Create a reading/writing nook by a window Mix furniture styles Add colour to rental walls (if allowed) Use freestanding storage Key takeaways: Our homes should express our personalities Character is more important than perfection Mixing styles can feel more authentic and interesting than matching everything Homes should evolve as your life evolves The best interiors feel personal, not staged This episode is a reminder that great homes don't need to be perfect - they need to feel like you. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
June 4 · 27 min
#64 The Kitchen That Changed the Game | Athena Calderone (EyeSwoon) - Unpacking Iconic Homes
In this episode of Unpacking Iconic Homes, we explore the home and design philosophy of Athena Calderone, founder of EyeSwoon and one of the most influential voices behind the rise of organic luxury interiors. If you've ever admired a kitchen filled with richly veined marble, open shelving, vintage bar stools, artisan ceramics, oversized clay pots full of gigantic branches, and a luxuriously lived-in feel, there's a good chance Athena Calderone had something to do with it. We unpack the kitchen that helped redefine modern interiors and explore how her approach to beauty, texture and restraint influenced an entire generation of homeowners. What we cover: How Athena Calderone helped popularise the organic luxury aesthetic Why her Brooklyn kitchen became one of the most copied spaces on Instagram The rise of travertine, limewash and natural materials Layering vintage and contemporary pieces without creating clutter Athena's bold, contrasting colour combinations The art of styling shelves, surfaces and open spaces Organic minimalism versus cold minimalism How to recreate the EyeSwoon look on a realistic budget Design details & products mentioned Limewash walls and textured finishes Travertine and boldly veined marble Vintage wooden stools and antique furniture Artisan ceramics and stoneware Steel-and-glass window walls Apparatus horsehair light fixtures Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Key takeaways Stay true to the original character of your home Mix antique pieces with new Texture, texture, texture Imperfection creates warmth and authenticity Organic luxury is more about atmosphere than expensive products This episode is a practical guide to one of the most influential interior styles of the last decade - and how to borrow the principles without needing a Brooklyn townhouse or a marble budget. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
May 28 · 28 min
#63 Rose Uniacke Interiors - Unpacking Iconic Homes
In this episode of Unpacking Iconic Homes, we dive into the world of legendary British interior designer Rose Uniacke - the woman largely responsible for the entire “quiet luxury” aesthetic dominating interiors right now. From Victoria Beckham’s home to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s townhouse and the Jo Malone flagship space, we unpack what makes her interiors feel so calm, timeless and impossibly expensive. Rose Uniacke’s approach is a masterclass in restraint, texture, atmosphere and knowing what to leave out. What we cover: Why Rose Uniacke interiors feel deeply calming and restorative The rise of “quiet luxury” and why people are rejecting trend-led interiors Warm chalky neutrals, tonal palettes and low-contrast spaces Why expensive homes often feel less decorated, not more Lime plaster walls, aged woods, linen curtains and imperfect finishes Layering antiques and modern pieces without feeling “period” Why lighting matters as much as - or more than - décor The psychology of negative space and restraint in interiors How to recreate the look without a multi-million-euro budget Projects & references mentioned: Victoria Beckham’s home Rosie Huntington-Whiteley & Jason Statham’s townhouse Jo Malone London flagship spaces Rose Uniacke Studio Design details & products mentioned Espagnolette handles for French doors Mill Road wood flooring Lime paint workshops and supplies by Maison Anna B. in Ireland Warm off-whites including: School House Whie Slaked Lime Joa’s White Key takeaways Texture is everything Rose Uniacke interiors are all about editing, not adding Vintage pieces create warmth and curiosity Layered lighting instantly elevates a room The most luxurious homes usually feel relaxed, quiet and lived-in This episode is essentially a masterclass in creating a home that feels calm, timeless and deeply considered, without falling into trend-driven design. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
May 21 · 33 min
#62 Nancy Meyers Homes - Unpacking Iconic Homes
In this episode of our Unpacking Iconic Homes series, we dive into the interiors of the most famous Nancy Meyers movies - from The Holiday and Something’s Gotta Give to It’s Complicated and Father of the Bride - and unpack why these homes have become so deeply iconic. Nancy Meyers interiors aren’t just beautiful - they feel warm, layered, lived-in and deeply aspirational in a way that still feels attainable. What we cover: Why Nancy Meyers homes feel so comforting and timeless The signature palette: warm neutrals, off-whites, contrast, and the occasional pale blues, sage greens and earthy browns relative to the location The art of layering (these homes are a masterclass) Kitchens as the emotional centre of the home The role of texture: linen, stone, wood, panelling, marble and slipcovered furniture Why lighting is everything (there are never too many lamps!) The famous The Holiday cottage (devastatingly it wasn’t actually real!!) French doors, open shelving, subway tile and the “collected over time” look How Nancy Meyers interiors balance elegance with practicality Design details mentioned: Rosehill Cottage from The Holiday Something’s Gotta Give Hamptons interiors It’s Complicated California warmth and layered neutrals Open shelving, plate racks and hanging pot rails Linen curtains and textured neutral rugs Fresh flowers, bowls of lemons and “lived-in” styling Paint colours & references mentioned: Benjamin Moore: Gentle Cream, White Dove, Timid White Farrow & Ball: School House White, James White, Slipper Satin Fleetwood Prestige: Greene Street Ikea Stockholm sheer curtains Key takeaways: Nancy Meyers homes work because they prioritise practicality over perfection Texture and layering is crucial Great homes feel collected and lived in, not instantly finished Practical everyday objects can be part of the styling The goal isn’t minimalism - it’s comfort, character and ease This episode is essentially a masterclass in creating a home that feels timeless, welcoming and deeply liveable. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
May 14 · 35 min
#61 Jamie Laing & Sophie Habboo’s Home - Unpacking Iconic Homes
In this new series, Unpacking Iconic Homes, we're picking six iconic homes, some that recently went viral and some that have stood the test of time. We'll be discussing design elements, color palettes, items we love, things we would change, and breaking down how to recreate the look on a more realistic budget. In the first episode of our new series, we take a deep dive into Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo’s wildly viral London townhouse renovation - designed by Jojo Barr of House Nine Design - and break down exactly why it works. From colour drenching to honed marble, arches and layered textures, we unpack the design decisions behind one of the internet’s most talked-about homes. What we cover Why the house feels luxurious without feeling stiff or untouchable. The deep green, fully colour-drenched north-facing front room - and why dark rooms should sometimes lean into darkness. How texture does the heavy lifting: bouclé, velvet, marble, limewash, linen and natural wood. The kitchen: dramatic countertop, fluted island detailing, panelled ceilings and custom chairs. Why continuity matters - repeated brass finishes, arches and warm earthy tones throughout the house. The bathroom: Viola marble, checkerboard tiles and that huge shower enclosure. The cinema room (the one room we disagree on!) The art of mixing antiques and modern pieces to create a home that feels layered and lived-in. Which elements are timeless - and which might date. Design details & products mentioned: House Nine Design / Jojo Barr Honed marble finishes Smallbone kitchen Bang & Olufsen speakers Wabi-sabi style pendant lights Calacatta Viola marble Ca’ Pietra tiles "Tamarind" by Benjamin Moore "Peat Basket" by Colourtrend Key takeaways Texture is so important!! Dark rooms can be embraced - not every room needs to be lightened up. Layering and contrasting natural materials creates warmth and depth. Repetition and continuity make homes feel cohesive. You don’t need millions in the bank to recreate, using the principles behind good design. The idea is not to copy celebrity homes exactly - it’s about understanding the design thinking behind them, and how to recreate elements of the look in a realistic way. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
May 7 · 46 min
#60 The Home Reset - Staying Organised and Decluttering After Renovation, with Hazel Burton
Renovation might be finished - but the real challenge starts when you move back in. In this episode, we’re joined by Hazel Burton from The Home Reset to talk about how to stay clutter-free and organised throughout a renovation. What we cover How renovation creates a rare blank slate opportunity Why decluttering should happen before you move A simple system: keep, donate/sell or discard Designing storage around your real habits - not Pinterest ideals How to invest in the right storage for your home A step-by-step approach to moving back in without chaos How to maintain a clutter-free home long-term Key takeaways If you wouldn’t buy it again, don’t bring it back Where you use something is where it should live One-in, one-out keeps your home from overflowing Simple systems beat perfect systems every time About our guest: Hazel Burton is the founder of The Home Reset, helping people create a "Hassle Free Home" This episode is your guide to not undoing all the hard work of your renovation by bringing the clutter back in. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
April 30 · 30 min
#59 When Renovations Go Wrong - Snags, Fixes & What To Do Next
Renovations rarely go exactly to plan, and that’s normal. In this final episode of our 'What We Wish We Knew Then' series, we talk about what happens when things go wrong, from minor snags to bigger issues, and how to handle them calmly and effectively. What we cover: The most common things that go wrong (including our own disasters!) How to create and manage a snag list Issues you can expect - from cracks and leaks to finishing details How to communicate clearly with builders and trades Why retention is critical - and when to use it What to do if work isn’t fixed or things become difficult When to escalate and what support is available Key takeaways Most renovation issues are normal and fixable Clear communication and documentation are your biggest tools Retention protects you - agree it early A successful renovation is one where problems are resolved, not avoided A practical, honest guide to navigating the final (and often most stressful) stage of any renovation. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
April 23 · 31 min
#58 - Balance, Proportion, & Colour - Interior Decorating Explained
Having a good eye for design is partly an art - but there is a science to it too, and it's something you can learn. It’s about understanding the components of what makes a room just work. In this episode, we break down the core principles of interior design and how to apply them in your homes. What we cover: The 7 key design principles: proportion, balance, unity, rhythm, emphasis, contrast, and detail. How to use repetition and contrast to create a cohesive space. Choosing colour based on tone and shade. The most common layout mistakes - from rugs and artwork to furniture placement. Mood boards, finding your style and not panic shopping. The “slow interiors” approach - it's totally fine to take your time. Key takeaways: Good design is about proportion and layout first, styling second. Colour decisions should always start with the light in your space. The best interiors evolve over time - not in one shopping trip. This episode is a practical guide to creating a home that feels juuuust right. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
April 16 · 33 min
#57 - Layout, Planting & Outdoor Rooms - Garden Design Explained
Gardens are often treated as the final step in a renovation - but they can completely transform how you live, entertain and use your home. In this episode, we break down the big landscaping decisions, from layout and materials to planting, pergolas and outdoor rooms. What we cover How much to budget for landscaping and where the money really goes Designing your garden in zones: dining, relaxing, planting, storage and outdoor kitchens Optimise for light - don't just plonk your patio outside your back door Choosing paving materials: porcelain, natural stone and gravel Timber vs composite decking and long-term maintenance Planting strategies that create year-round structure without overwhelm Common planting mistakes and how to avoid a messy, high-maintenance garden Awnings, pergolas and shade options for the Irish climate Garden rooms, offices and adding usable outdoor square footage Furniture sizing, durable materials and weather-proof storage Projects & items mentioned Jenny’s living wall by Gannon & Associates Landscape Architecture Kate’s garden design by Louise Checa Landscape Architecture Amelanchier lamarckii as a favourite tree for seasonal structure and softness The big takeaway: spend on structure, groundwork and layout first - planting and styling come afterwards. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
April 9 · 28 min
#56 - Prep, Colour & Finish - Painting Explained for Renovations
A great paint job has far less to do with the paint tin than most people think. In this episode, we focus on preparation, paint quality, finishes, choosing the right colours for your home, and the mistakes that ruin your paint jobs. What we cover Why painting is 80% prep and 20% paint Filling, sanding, taping and the ungodly amount of dust Fresh plaster - use a mist coat to prevent peeling later What you’re really paying for in high-quality paint Why to be wary of colour matching Choosing the right finish: various matt finishes, eggshell, satin, and gloss How light affects your paint colour How to test paint in your room How to choose the right off-white for your room Items mentioned Festool dust extractor Wooster paintbrushes Purdy rollers Our favourite off-white paints Slaked Lime - Little Greene Schoolhouse White - Farrow & Ball Powdered Shell - Colourtrend Subtle - Colourtrend Trigg - Farrelly & Co Greene Street - Prestige by Fleetwood (Roisin Lafferty collection) Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
April 2 · 30 min
#55 - Floors, Levels & Transitions - Flooring Explained for Renovations
Flooring is one of the biggest design decisions in a renovation - but it’s also structural, thermal, and incredibly hard to change later. In this episode, we cover everything from timber, tile and LVT to polished concrete, terrazzo, carpets, subfloors and underfloor heating compatibility. What we cover Engineered timber vs solid timber - and why engineered wood is so popular these days Stone, porcelain and the maintenance requirements LVT, glue-down vs click, why levelling is everything Polished concrete - is it right for Irish homes? Terrazzo tiles vs poured terrazzo Carpet, acoustics and the role of good underlay The real hero: subfloor preparation, moisture control and levelling Which flooring types work best with underfloor heating Floor build-ups, levels and how to avoid awkward transitions Key takeaways Choose flooring based on use, comfort and maintenance, not just aesthetics Every flooring failure usually comes back to poor prep Underfloor heating should influence your flooring choices early Mixed materials need finished floor levels planned at design stage This episode is packed with the practical decisions that help flooring feel seamless, durable and right for how you actually live. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines
March 26 · 30 min
#54 - Windows & Doors - External Openings Explained for Renovations
Windows and doors might seem like simple decisions - but they affect heat, light, ventilation, security and how your home feels every day. In this episode, we break down the key decisions to get right early when planning your external windows and doors. What we cover: Why windows and doors must be decided early in a renovation Different window types - fixed, casement, tilt & turn, sliding and bi-fold Choosing the right frame materials (uPVC, aluminium, timber, alu-clad) Double vs triple glazing - and when each is worth it Designing for light, privacy and ventilation Front doors vs secondary doors - function, security and everyday use Sliding, bi-fold, and French doors - pros, cons and real-life trade-offs Thresholds, flow and how doors actually feel to use day-to-day Key considerations Start with use, not style - how will you actually live with these openings? Opening direction, clearance and furniture placement matter more than you think Bigger isn’t always better - especially with large, heavy doors Plan for privacy without losing light Items mentioned Fineo slim double glazing Spring sash windows This episode focuses on the early planning decisions - helping you avoid costly mistakes and choose windows and doors that work for your home long-term. Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines