Emo Court is described as the jewel in Co Laois’s historical crown. This neo-classical mansion dates from the 18th century and was designed for the Earls of Portarlington. In the hands of the State since 2008, it has received a multi-million Euro boost to open extra floors to the public. Although it is in better nick than Doneraile Court, this huge mansion is a beast of a project, and it needs a lot of TLC. Mary Heffernan from the OPW and Historical Interiors Expert Joanne Bannon are tasked with making this happen, from researching what finishes to use on the stunning staircase; to practicalities of opening a house full of priceless artefacts to the public. Armed with a multimillion euro budget, these two are in charge of restoring this crumbling interior to its former glory. The real challenge, however, lies in filling it with furniture, paintings and precious artefacts now scattered in private and public collections all over the country. We hit the road with Mary and Joanne as they beg, steal an borrow from some the State’s most amazing treasures and look on as they reinvigorate the interior character of these houses once more.
