Podcast · Leisure & Travel

Rip It Up: The Renovations Podcast

by Jenny Sheahan and Kate O'Driscoll · English · Leisure & Travel

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 reno

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 28 min
Latest: 8 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026 · 22 min

Don’t Waste Your Money On… Tiles

Jenny thinks tiles are one of the great joys of interiors and would happily spend the entire renovation budget on them. Kate… would not. This week, we’re asking when expensive tiles are actually worth the money, when you can achieve almost exactly the same effect for far less, and which choices we’d make differently after living with our own renovations. We talk overpriced porcelain, real terrazzo and limestone, Zellige tiles, trends, grout colours, clever layouts, outdoor tiles, mosaics, and...

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

1 Oct 2026 · 21 min
Don't Waste Your Money On... Furniture
You’ve just spent a fortune renovating, your bank account is empty, and now you've a load of empty rooms and a massive shopping list... Couch. Dining table. Chairs. Beds. Side tables. Armchairs. Coffee table. Console. Bar stools… This week on Don’t Waste Your Money On…, we’re talking furniture, and why one of the most expensive mistakes you can make at the end of a renovation is trying to furnish the entire house at once. We talk about why rooms often come together better when you buy slowly,...
24 Sep 2026 · 20 min
Don't Waste Your Money On... Light Fittings
Good lighting can completely transform a home. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend hundreds, or thousands, on every fitting before you move in. In this episode of our Don’t Waste Your Money On… series, we’re talking light fittings, and making one very important distinction: the lighting plan belongs in the bones of your renovation; the decorative fittings don’t. Prioritise the wiring, positions, switching, dimming, wall-light points, pendants, task lighting, and anything that will be diff...
17 Sep 2026 · 26 min
Don’t Waste Your Money On… Curtains
Custom curtains and blinds can add thousands at the end of a renovation. But are they something you really need to spend big on straight away? This week on Don’t Waste Your Money On…, we’re talking curtains and window treatments: one of those finishing touches that can make a huge difference to a room, but can also be very easy to upgrade later. We share what we’ve actually done in our own homes, from €5-a-metre fabric and ready-made H&M curtains to IKEA sheers, inexpensive roller blinds,...
10 Sep 2026 · 24 min
Don’t Waste Your Money On… Bathroom Vanities
Bathroom vanities can cost hundreds, or easily thousands, of euro. But are you actually getting better quality when you spend more? In the first episode of our new Don’t Waste Your Money On… series, we’re talking about one area where we both think you can save: the bathroom vanity. We talk about why many off-the-shelf vanities are fundamentally very similar, what we’ve used in our own homes, and how a basic unit can be transformed with paint, new hardware, legs, or a beautiful countertop basi...
3 Sep 2026 · 31 min
Summer Replay: When Renovations Go Wrong - Snags, Fixes & What to Do Next
We're taking a short summer break - but we didn't want to leave you stranded! Over the next few weeks we're re-sharing some of our most popular episodes from the Rip It Up archive while we recharge for a brand-new season in September. In this episode, we talk about what happens when things go wrong, from minor snags to bigger issues, and how to handle them effectively. if you're listening for the first time, we'd love to hear what stage of your renovation you're at. We'll be back next week wi...
27 Aug 2026 · 27 min
Summer Replay: Planning Permission Explained - What You Need to Know Before Renovating
We're taking a short summer break - but we didn't want to leave you stranded! Over the next few weeks we're re-sharing some of our most popular episodes from the Rip It Up archive while we recharge for a brand-new season in September. In this episode we give your our best tips plus lessons learned from our own encounters (positive and less positive!) with local planning authorities. if you're listening for the first time, we'd love to hear what stage of your renovation you're at. We'll be bac...
20 Aug 2026 · 29 min
Summer Replay: Bathroom Layouts and Planning - Bathroom Design Explained
We're taking a short summer break - but we didn't want to leave you stranded! Over the next few weeks we're re-sharing some of our most popular episodes from the Rip It Up archive while we recharge for a brand-new season in September. In this episode, we break down the layout and planning decisions that make a bathroom comfortable, functional and easy to live with. if you're listening for the first time, we'd love to hear what stage of your renovation you're at. We'll be back in September wit...
13 Aug 2026 · 29 min
Summer Replay: Kitchen Layouts Explained - Flow, Storage & Planning Decisions
We're taking a short summer break - but we didn't want to leave you stranded! Over the next few weeks we're re-sharing some of our most popular episodes from the Rip It Up archive while we recharge for a brand-new season in September. This is one of our most popular episodes ever. In this episode, we break down the early decisions that will make your kitchen renovation successful. if you're listening for the first time, we'd love to hear what stage of your renovation you're at. We'll be back ...
6 Aug 2026 · 31 min
Summer Replay: The Renovation Process - What to Expect Before You Start
We're taking a short summer break - but we didn't want to leave you stranded! Over the next few weeks we're re-sharing some of our most popular episodes from the Rip It Up archive while we recharge for a brand-new season in September. This episode is one of our very first and one of our favourites! In this episode, Kate & Jenny step the listener through the building process, talk through key construction terminology and sequencing, and highlight key decisions to be made throughout. This e...
S8 · E72 · 30 Jul 2026 · 19 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 n...
S8 · E71 · 23 Jul 2026 · 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 ...
S8 · E70 · 16 Jul 2026 · 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 rea...
9 Jul 2026 · 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
S8 · E69 · 9 Jul 2026 · 29 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 util...
S8 · E68 · 2 Jul 2026 · 27 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 c...
S8 · E67 · 25 Jun 2026 · 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.&n...
S7 · E66 · 18 Jun 2026 · 38 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 wallpape...
S7 · E65 · 11 Jun 2026 · 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 charact...
S7 · E64 · 4 Jun 2026 · 28 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 kitch...
S7 · E63 · 28 May 2026 · 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 ...
S7 · E62 · 21 May 2026 · 34 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&nbs...
S7 · E61 · 14 May 2026 · 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 - ...
S6 · E60 · 7 May 2026 · 47 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 &nbsp...
S6 · E59 · 30 Apr 2026 · 31 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 clea...
S6 · E58 · 23 Apr 2026 · 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 ton...
S6 · E57 · 16 Apr 2026 · 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...
S6 · E56 · 9 Apr 2026 · 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 b...
S6 · E55 · 2 Apr 2026 · 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 levelli...
S6 · E54 · 26 Mar 2026 · 31 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, ...

About Rip It Up: The Renovations Podcast

Rip It Up: The Renovations Podcast is a English leisure & travel podcast from Jenny Sheahan and Kate O'Driscoll. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Jenny Sheahan and Kate O'Driscoll
Language: English
Category: Leisure & Travel
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 28 min
Latest episode: 8 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1725305020

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