The man behind Garden Rooms has recently found himself in the spotlight after his remarkable family home, Clonkeen Lodge, took centre stage on the front page of the Irish Independents Property Section.

As John prepares to part with the historic family property, the feature celebrates a home steeped in over 300 years of history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the family’s heritage and his personal passion for design.

A FAMILY HOME STEEPED IN HISTORY

Believed to date back to the 1680s, Clonkeen Lodge in Clones, Co. Monaghan, is reputed to be one of the area’s oldest houses.  The property has been in the Sherry family for four generations, beginning with John’s great-grandfather Edward ‘Ned’ Sherry, who purchased the house and surrounding farmland in 1890.

Over the centuries, the house has been home to some fascinating characters, including pioneering women’s rights campaigner Hilda Tweedy, who was born there in 1911, and a former British Army officer who reportedly kept exotic animals, including a lion and tiger cubs, on the grounds.

We can only imagine the neighbours’ reactions to such unusual residents in 19^th-century Monaghan!

For more fascinating stories from Clonkeen Lodge’s colourful past, read the full Irish Independent feature.

BRINGING CLOONKEEN LODGE BACK TO LIFE

Although John grew up between Skerries and Rush, in the village of Loughshinny, Clonkeen Lodge was a familiar part of his childhood, with regular family visits dating back to the early 1970s.

He remembers a very different house back then, with peeling wallpaper, damp walls, a cold, old-fashioned kitchen and no bathroom.

When John inherited the property from his uncle around 20 years ago, he took on the challenge of modernising the historic home.  Building on the exterior restoration work already carried out by his uncles, John undertook an extensive interior renovation, including new ceilings, insulation, electrics and plumbing.

For John, it has always been about more than simply owning the property.  He sees himself as its custodian, preserving a piece of family history for future generations.

Historic charm meets contemporary design.

JOHNS PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN

While the renovation brought modern-day comfort to Clonkeen Lodge, it was the interior design that allowed John to put his own stamp on the house.

With a love of mid-century classically designed furniture, John designed interiors that complement the character of the historic building while giving it a fresh, modern feel.

From carefully chosen Farrow & Ball colours to furniture sourced through second-hand marketplaces, each room reflects his individual style.  The result is a striking blend of period features and contemporary living, showing just how beautifully old and new can work together.

Clonkeen Lodge, a cherished family home, with John Sherry and his children.

THE MAN BEHIND GARDEN ROOMS

Johns’ appreciation for thoughtful design extends beyond Clonkeen Lodge.  As the founder of Garden Rooms, he has spent more than two decades helping customers create beautiful, functional spaces that enhance the way they live and work.

From restoring a centuries-old family home to creating contemporary garden rooms, John’s enthusiasm for quality, craftsmanship and considered design is clear.

As Clonkeen Lodge prepares for its next chapter, it stands as a reflection of both his family’s remarkable history and his own personal style.

And while saying goodbye to a house filled with so many memories won’t be easy, its story is certainly one worth celebrating.

Restoring the character of a historic home

EXPLORE MORE

Step inside Clonkeen Lodge

Take a closer look at John’s historic family home, explore the photographs and view the property listing.

View Clonkeen Lodge for sale.

Discover Garden Rooms

Inspired by John’s passion for thoughtful design? Explore our range of contemporary garden rooms, designed to create beautiful, functional spaces for modern living.

Explore our Garden Room Designs.