Huge shock as RTE star dies 'suddenly' at home at the age of 68

Tributes are flooding in after the death of TV architect Hugh Wallace who rose to fame as a judge on RTE's Home of the Year programme.

Wallace also presented RTE's Great House Revival series and was popular with viewers given his expertise, vivacious personality and flamboyant style.

His death was described as "sudden" by his husband Martin Corbett who posted an update to followers via Hugh's own Instagram account on Monday morning.

"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."

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Off screen, Wallace was one of the founders of Dublin architect firm Douglas Wallace which he developed into one of the country's leading design consultancies.

PICTURED: Hugh Wallace with his husband Martin Corbett

RTE Director General Kevin Bakhurst described Wallace as "a hugely popular figure with audiences and across the industry," going on to add, "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," Mr Bakhurst said.

Other friends and followers have added to the tributes being paid following the death of the 68-year-old. 

Ireland AM's Deric Ó h'Artagáin said: "Omg, only out with you both on Saturday night at the HIV Ireland Red Ball. We laughed so much with Hugh. Such tragic news."

Designer Gwen Kenny commented: "You were one in a million, someone I am proud to call my friend. Genuinely kind, funny and mischievous! The world will be less colourful without you in it. I’ll miss the chats, our laughs & the fun you created."

ABOVE: Hugh Wallace was a popular judge on RTE's Home of the Year

The Marlow & Co shop in Dublin posted: "We are heartbroken, Martin. He was so good to us, always had something lovely and/or mischievous to say, and lit up the atmosphere whenever you guys came in to the shop.

"Hugh wasn’t just larger-than-life for the cameras, he lived that way. And your profound love for each other was obvious to all. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Rest In Peace, Hugh."

TV host Lucy Kennedy said: "I loved Hugh, so much fun always. I’m so sorry for your loss Martin."

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