Siobhan Lam Finds Dream Home Through Fortuitous Mistake

Siobhan Lam, the owner of the acclaimed interiors company April and the Bear and a judge on RTE’s Home of the Year, recently shared how a fortunate mistake allowed her and her husband Jamie to secure their dream home. Amid the pressures of her profession, where expectations run high regarding home aesthetics, Lam emphasizes the reality of her living space is far from the perfectly styled images often portrayed on social media.

Lam acknowledges the common misconception that her home should mirror the polished designs she promotes. “Because I work in interiors, people feel my home should look the way I talk about homes so I do feel a bit of pressure,” she explained in an interview with RSVP Home. She highlights the ever-evolving nature of personal spaces, noting that “every home is evolving and there are different stages where not everything is realistic.”

Her dining room table serves as a prime example of practicality over perfection. It is a hand-me-down from her parents, which she cleverly revitalized by changing its legs. “These days it’s covered with paint and markers, but I’m going to leave it like this until the girls are older because that’s just the era of life we’re in right now,” she stated, reflecting her commitment to making the most of what she has.

Embracing the Charm of Older Homes

Lam’s approach to home renovation is grounded in a love for older buildings. She appreciates the unique character they offer, despite the challenges they may present. “There is no other home that has as much character as an older period building,” she remarked. “But do know that because it’s older, it has its own little quirks. There might be damp issues. There might be issues with the plumbing.”

She advises potential homebuyers to consider these factors carefully, emphasizing that renovation is not suited for everyone. Yet, for those willing to embrace imperfections, Lam believes the rewards can be profound. “Keep your eye on the market. It’s very tough out there, but sometimes there are deals to be had,” she noted, suggesting that prospective buyers can find opportunities if they remain vigilant.

For Lam and her husband, the journey to their ideal home in Portobello was marked by a blend of timing and serendipity. Initially focused on apartments due to budget constraints, they stumbled upon a listing that was miscategorized as being in Dolphin’s Barn. “We randomly stumbled across the listing for this house, it was advertised as being in Dolphin’s Barn. It was three bedsits and when we came to view it, we couldn’t even see most of it, as there were tenants. It was in a bad way,” she explained.

Recognizing the potential and location, the couple seized the opportunity. “The bank was selling it as the owner had disappeared so it was a tricky sale. They weren’t too interested in marketing it,” she said. The couple’s quick decision-making allowed them to acquire the property at a price they could manage, which they may not have been able to afford had it been listed correctly.

Now transformed into a beautiful three-bedroom family home, the residence accommodates their two daughters, Zoë and Autumn, along with their cat, Loki. Lam’s story exemplifies how unexpected opportunities can lead to fulfilling outcomes, blending her creative vision with a reality that values practicality and personal touch.

As Lam continues to navigate her career in interiors while raising her family, she remains a firm believer in the power of reusing and repurposing. Her perspective encourages others to embrace their unique home journeys, underscoring that style can emerge from a blend of the old and the new.

For more insights into Lam’s home and her philosophy on interiors, read her full interview in the latest issue of RSVP Home, now available.