Hugh Wallace, the renowned Irish architect and beloved television personality best known for his role as a judge on RTÉ's popular home design show "Home of the Year," has died suddenly at his home at the age of 68. The news was announced by his husband, Martin Corbett, in an emotional Instagram post that has left fans and colleagues across Ireland mourning the loss of one of the country's most recognizable media figures.
"It is with deep sadness and shock that I share the news that my beloved husband and soulmate, Hugh Wallace, passed away suddenly at home last night," Corbett wrote in his heartfelt message. "I am heartbroken. Please respect my privacy at this deeply painful time." The unexpected nature of Wallace's death has sent shockwaves through Ireland's television and architecture communities, where he was widely respected and admired.
Throughout his distinguished television career, Wallace became a household name through his appearances on multiple RTÉ programs that celebrated Irish architecture and design. Beyond his most famous role on "Home of the Year," where he served as one of the show's expert judges, Wallace also contributed to other popular programs including "The Great House Revival" and "My Bungalow Bliss." His television work was characterized by his genuine enthusiasm for good design, his ability to communicate complex architectural concepts to general audiences, and his distinctive, warm presentation style that made him a favorite among viewers.
In addition to his television career, Wallace was a accomplished professional architect and served as a founding partner of Douglas Wallace Architects, a respected firm based in Dublin. His architectural work and his media presence combined to make him one of Ireland's most influential voices in promoting good design and architecture awareness among the general public. His professional expertise lent authenticity to his television appearances, while his natural communication skills made architectural concepts accessible to everyday viewers.
Tributes have poured in from across Ireland's political and media landscape following the announcement of Wallace's death. Taoiseach Micheál Martin expressed his condolences, stating he was "deeply saddened to hear of Hugh Wallace's passing." Martin praised Wallace's contributions, noting that "his advocacy for good architecture, coupled with his wonderful communication skills, performed a wonderful public service" for the Irish people.
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst also paid tribute to Wallace, describing him as "a hugely popular figure with audiences and across the industry." Bakhurst highlighted Wallace's impact on the network's programming, particularly through "Home of the Year," explaining: "Hugh, with his fellow judges, not only opened the door to the most extraordinary homes in Ireland, but he also inspired viewers to engage with the vast possibilities of innovative design."
Bakhurst's tribute also acknowledged Wallace's personal courage and authenticity, noting his admiration for "Wallace's openness about his own life story, which helped so many." The RTÉ executive concluded his statement with traditional Irish condolences: "Our thoughts are with his husband Martin, his family, his colleagues in Shinawil, Animo and RTÉ, and his many close associates for whom Hugh was a beloved colleague, inspiring mind, and the warmest of friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Wallace's death represents a significant loss for Irish television and the country's architectural community. His unique ability to bridge the gap between professional expertise and popular entertainment made him an invaluable contributor to Ireland's cultural landscape. Through his television work, he introduced countless viewers to the beauty and importance of thoughtful design while celebrating the creativity and individuality of Irish homeowners and architects across the country.
