The television and architecture worlds are in mourning following the death of beloved BBC presenter and architect Hugh Wallace at the age of 68.
His husband, Martin Corbett, confirmed the devastating news in a heartfelt post on Wallace's Instagram account on December 2, 2025. He revealed that Wallace passed away at home the previous night.
A Career Celebrating Design and Heritage
Hugh Wallace was a founding partner of the architectural practice Douglas Wallace Consultants and became a familiar face to audiences through his work on popular property shows. He was best known as a long-standing judge on RTÉ's Home of the Year and for presenting the BBC series The Great House Revival.
The latter programme, which aired its latest season in the summer of 2025, followed homeowners as they worked to restore derelict properties, aiming to preserve fragments of Ireland's architectural history.
Heartfelt Tributes from Colleagues and Leaders
The announcement prompted an immediate outpouring of grief and admiration from across Ireland and the broadcasting industry. In a statement on the Douglas Wallace website, colleagues expressed they were 'heartbroken' by the loss, praising his passion, creativity, and warmth.
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was 'deeply saddened', highlighting Wallace's advocacy for good architecture and his superb communication skills as a significant public service. Tánaiste Simon Harris remembered his 'larger than life' personality and his booming voice, which he said taught the nation about the importance of restoration.
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst called him a 'hugely popular figure' who inspired viewers to explore innovative design. Interior designer Sarah Cosgrove, a co-star on Home of the Year, shared her devastation, recalling Wallace's incredible energy and describing him as 'so full of life'.
Public Mourning a Familiar Face
Tributes have also flooded social media, with fans and those touched by his work expressing their sorrow. Followers noted his warm and enthusiastic television presence over the past decade, with many stating his passing was both sudden and deeply saddening.
No cause of death has been disclosed. The focus remains on celebrating the legacy of a man who, through his dual careers, left a lasting impression on Ireland's built environment and its cultural landscape.
