Architect and television presenter Hugh Wallace, beloved by RTÉ audiences as a long-serving judge on Home of the Year, has died at the age of 68.
In a statement shared on Wallace’s Instagram, his husband Martin Corbett wrote:
“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. I am heartbroken. Please respect my privacy at this deeply painful time. Martin.”
Wallace became one of RTÉ One’s most recognisable faces through programmes such as Home of the Year, The Great House Revival, and My Bungalow Bliss. His enthusiasm, sharp design instincts and warm, charismatic presence made him a favourite among viewers. He was the only judge to appear in every series of Home of the Year since its launch in 2015.
Beyond television, Wallace was a founding partner of the Dublin-based practice Douglas Wallace Architects, which grew into one of Ireland’s most respected design consultancies. Over several decades, he contributed to hotels, retail spaces and private homes nationwide, often emphasising how thoughtful design can build a sense of belonging and community.
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst paid tribute, highlighting Wallace’s passion for architecture and his commitment to sharing its benefits with the public.
“On RTÉ’s hugely popular Home of the Year, 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.”
He added that he admired Wallace’s honesty about his personal journey—“which helped so many”—and extended condolences to Martin, Wallace’s family, colleagues and friends.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1, interior designer Sarah Cosgrove, who worked alongside Wallace, expressed her shock and grief:
“It’s just devastating. He was so full of life. I think that was the energy that Hugh brought to everything he did.
He was an incredible person and an incredible husband to Martin… I met him a few weeks ago and it was just craic, that is what you were always guaranteed.”
Wallace had spoken openly about his struggle with alcoholism and the decision to seek help—something he described as “a second chance at life.” He used his public profile to advocate for better support systems and to encourage others facing addiction to reach out.
In recent years, he also chronicled the renovation of his own Dublin home, driven by his vision of creating a “super home for the future”, exploring ideas of sustainability, comfort and ageing in place. Despite a busy broadcasting schedule, he continued to lead his architectural practice and remained a thoughtful voice on design, housing, and what truly makes a home.
Hugh Wallace is survived by his husband, Martin Corbett, with whom he shared a deeply bonded, often humorously “nomadic” life spent renovating homes side by side.
