IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DFS
A DFS-sponsored makeover by designer James McNamara, featuring Irish artists at Novas Recovery House in Limerick …
An amazing transformation has been unveiled at The Recovery House in Limerick, a vital initiative run by NOVAS, to create a warm and welcoming environment for women transitioning from residential addiction treatment.
NOVAS Recovery House before and after DFS sponsored make-over.
This is a space dedicated to providing women with a safe and supportive environment to continue rebuilding their lives. The transformation has been made possible through the generous support of furniture retailer DFS, alongside the creative vision of Achill-based interior designer James McNamara. His expertise has ensured the room promotes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, essential for the healing process.
Una Burns, Head of Advocacy & Communications at NOVAS, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating; “Recovery House represents a significant step forward in supporting women in their recovery journeys. By providing a dedicated House for women to connect, heal and grow, we are addressing not only their addiction but also the underlying challenges many have faced. This is an absolutely wonderful room with sumptuous furnishings, stunning artwork and an absolutely wonderful vibe – almost like a warm hug. It’s probably the most beautiful space many of them will have lived in. For women who have come from homelessness, this is just a dream. We are deeply grateful to DFS, James McNamara, and all the other artists and supporters for making this vision a reality.”
James McNamara shared his excitement for the project, saying; “It has been an absolute honour to be involved in such a meaningful project. Working alongside so many generous people and businesses to create this space has been a privilege. Projects like this remind you why thoughtful design matters. It’s not just about creating a room that looks beautiful. It’s about creating a space that feels warm, welcoming and supportive for the people who use it every day. I hope every woman who walks through the door feels a genuine sense of comfort and belonging, and that this space becomes a positive part of their journey as they begin a new chapter.”
DFS Joules Gilmorton sofa, available exclusively at DFS, and DFS Kian accent chair in sky. Art by Caroline Duffy and rug by Kukoon.
The Coral Gilmorton sofa, from the Joules collection exclusively at DFS, and DFS Kian chairs in Sky, formed the founding pillars of this design. The project would not have been complete without artworks by local artist Carol Ahern, who donated a beautiful painting called “The Wonky Tea Pot”, and Dundalk-based artist Caroline Duffy, whose Giclée Print “The Morning Joy 6” looks stunning above the sofa.
The paint donated by Irish paint company Farrelly and Co brought everything together. To ensure softness in the space James chose Ernest, a soft white for the walls, and a delightful Sorrento blue for the ceiling and woodwork. The blue was then brought down into the room, forming a border that brings a cocooning effect to the space. It was finished off with a textured hessian rug donated by Kukoon Rugs, deep chocolate colours velvet curtains donated by JMC Studios, and superb support from the team at NOVAS.
Original artwork donated by Limerick artist Carol Ahern.
DFS also expressed their commitment to community support, through this initiative. “We know how important it is to create comfortable and inviting environments and are proud to have supported several projects like this throughout Ireland. This is our fourth in Limerick, but we have done similar projects in Dublin, Cork and Galway, close to our DFS stores,” said Amy Ryan, DFS Limerick General Manager. “We’re delighted to have aided the delivery of this makeover for The Recovery House, to create a space where the women spending time there can feel safe and empowered.”
At Recovery House, each woman works closely with a dedicated Case Manager to develop a personalised support plan, focusing on her unique goals and needs. The six-month programme takes a holistic approach, addressing not just addiction recovery but also the development of practical life skills, trauma management, and the establishment of healthy routines and relationships. This includes access to housing, healthcare, education, employment and community services throughout Limerick.
Many women referred to Recovery House may have experienced homelessness or be at risk of returning to homelessness. The aim is to equip them with the tools they need to maintain their recovery and build an independent future. By the end of the programme, each woman will be prepared to move into secure, long-term accommodation, continuing her journey with renewed hope and purpose.
