Mayo interior designer helps transform recovery house for women in Limerick
James McNamara partners with DFS and NOVAS to create a welcoming space for women rebuilding their lives
Achill Island native interior designer James McNamara has helped transform the sitting room of The Recovery House in Limerick, a new initiative by NOVAS supporting women transitioning from residential addiction treatment.
The makeover, made possible through the support of furniture retailer DFS and a number of local businesses and artists, has created a warm and welcoming space designed to promote comfort, healing and recovery.
The Recovery House provides women with a safe environment where they can continue rebuilding their lives through a six-month programme focused on addiction recovery, trauma support, life skills, housing, healthcare, education and employment.
Speaking about the project, James McNamara said it had been an honour to be involved.
“Working alongside so many generous people and businesses to create this space has been a privilege,” he said. “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,” he added.
Una Burns, Head of Advocacy and Communications at NOVAS, said the new space will play an important role in supporting women on their recovery journey.
“This is a beautiful room, with sumptuous furnishings, stunning artwork and an absolutely wonderful vibe – almost like a warm hug,” she said. “We are deeply grateful to DFS, James McNamara and all the other supporters for making this vision a reality.”
The project featured furniture donated by DFS, artwork from Limerick artists Carol Ahern and Caroline Duffy, paint supplied by Farrelly and Co, a rug donated by Kukoon Rugs, and curtains from JMC Studios.
Many women referred to The Recovery House have experienced homelessness or are at risk of returning to homelessness.
The programme aims to equip participants with the practical and personal supports needed to maintain recovery and move into secure, long-term accommodation.