Architect and TV presenter, Hugh Wallace, best known for his role as a long term judge of RTÉ show, Home of the Year, has died aged 68.
Wallace was a much presenter with the broadcaster, with other shows including My Bungalow Bliss, and The Great House Revival. He was also the only judge to feature on every series of Home of the Year, presenting the show since it first aired in 2015.
The presenter's death was confirmed via a statement from his own Instagram account from his husband, Martin Corbett.
"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", Corbett wrote. See this statement in full here.
Along with a stellar career on television, Hugh Wallace was also a founding partner of Dublin based practice, Douglas Wallace Architects, which helped to build one of Ireland's best-known design firms.
Over the decades, Wallace worked on retail spaces, hotels, and homes across the country. He often emphasised the importance of good design in creating a sense of belonging.
Paying tribute to Wallace, RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst praised the late presenter's passion for creative design made him "a hugely popular figure with audiences and across the industry".
He said: "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".
"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".
Hugh Wallace is survived by husband and hairdresser Martin Corbett.
