When the Designer Becomes the Client

For most homeowners, building a house from scratch is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. For interior designer Robert Glynn, founder of Studio 31, it was a chance to create a home that reflected not only his professional expertise but also the realities of family life.

Located in North County Dublin, on land adjacent to interior designer Robert’s parents’ home, this contemporary barn-style property is approaching its first anniversary. Home to Robert, his partner and their two young children, the house combines striking architectural design with practical solutions that support the stage of life they’re in. While Robert spends his professional life creating homes for clients, designing for himself presented a unique challenge. ‘Doing your own home is very different,’ he says. ‘Every decision is one you, yourself have to live with. It’s enjoyable, but every little detail becomes your own responsibility. One of the huge advantages of being a designer is that you can really think through every aspect of how you want to live.’

Read more in the August issue…