'Extraordinary' extended Waterford cottage misses out on winning Home of the Year

A gorgeous home in Co Waterford has missed out on winning Home of the Year 2024. 

The home - bought by Craig and Matthew in a "semi-derelict" state - was praised by all three judges Hugh Wallace, Amanda Bone and Sara Cosgrave when they first visited it. 

And although it was chosen for the final alongside six other extraordinary homes, it wasn't chosen as the winner despite its beautiful interiors and stunning architecture. 

Viewers heard how Craig and Matthew kept the existing cottage and created an extension in a contrasting colour to create their "dream contemporary home". 

"We're very proud of ourselves, and we feel very privileged to live in a home like this," they said.

Judge Hugh Wallace called the sight of the house "smashing" and called it "an architectural tour de force", with Amanda gushing over the "beautiful" polished concrete floor in the hallway. 

All judges praised the home's "beautiful views" and architecture and it received one of the highest marks in the competition with a 10 from Hugh, a 9 from Sara and an 8 from Amanda. 

However, Amanda mentioned the kitchen felt "a little bit heavy, a little bit dark" and said the upstairs bathroom felt "claustrophobic". 

The home was one of the first discussed in the finale alongside a colourful Rectory in Co Derry, however both houses were removed from contention at the same time. 

Speaking during decision-making, Hugh Wallace said, "Both of these homes are extraordinary, but there are other homes which just pipped these at the post." 

A 1920s terrace house in Co Dublin won the top prize for its clever use of space and bold colours.