Coastal Chic

Step inside the Holywood home of Victoria Patterson from Design by Mayfair, part of the Mayfair Group.

An expansive new build in the exclusive Cultra area of Holywood, Co. Down, this impressive house is the family home of Victoria Patterson. Victoria’s family has been in the building and construction industry for many years and she is now heading up Design by Mayfair, creating bespoke homes suited to each client’s individual specification.

‘We built this house seven years ago,’ comments Victoria. ‘We worked with award-winning architect Des Ewing on the overall design and renowned builder Michael Galloway of MG Construction made it all come to life.’

When it came to designing the exterior façade Victoria wanted an Italianate finish and this is clearly evident as you drive into the courtyard at the front of the property. However, when you make your way round to the back with its striking sea view, the style changes.

As Victoria explains, ‘I love Palladian architecture and the symmetry it offers. While this was the first choice when it came to the front exterior, we knew that a more contemporary glass finish would be needed at the back to maximise our amazing sea view over Belfast Lough. With this in mind, we opted for a more contemporary style, which is also in keeping with the house design as a whole.’

The exterior landscaping, which is the work of Johnny Knox Garden Design also plays to the Italianate style favoured by Victoria with the neat, symmetrical box hedging and topiary. The wow factor of this home is echoed once you walk in through the front door and into the impressive hallway. Not only does the hall take advantage of the sea view ahead, but the stone-carved staircase leading to the first floor is one of only two to be found in homes throughout Ireland.