Clock in and smell the roses

Like the look of this week's houses? Fiona Tyrell shows how it's done

If you like the look of the fantastic kitchen clock in the showhouse of the two-bed townhouses at Sandford Row, off Colliers Avenue in Ranelagh, D6 go to Peter Johnson's shop on Cow's Lane, Temple Bar (01 6334325). It costs €50. Imported from France, this quirky clock is made from plastic and Velcro and is easily mounted on any wall.

Although it comes with a template, it can be made up to any size required and really adds a contemporary and fun feel to any kitchen. It is also available in a smaller version and is battery operated. Watch out for the unusual opening hours at Peter Johnson - it's open from 12 noon to 3pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and all day Saturday.

Velux windows were used in number 4 Churchtown Avenue to really brighten up the house. Obviously the best time to install a Velux window is when you are building your house or extension.

It can be quite a big job otherwise and, depending on the age and type of house, can cost in the thousands. Still, the transformational effect of added light and space is well worth it.

Prices for standard Velux windows are around 500, excluding installation costs (Senator Windows 1850 500 111).

A new design of Velux window which is set in the existing wall and continues up to the pitched roof gives marvellous light to a room but can cost around 2,000 for large windows.

With autumn just around the corner, it's time to starting thinking about getting your rose garden in order. Check out the gorgeous roses in this house, Epomeo in Castleknock for inspiration. Spring and autumn are the best time to plant roses. Cottage-style country roses are particularly popular - try zephirine drouhin, a thornless climber with a strong sweet fragrance, which doesn't grow too tall. Price 6.99 at Windyridge Nursery and Garden Centre in Dún Laoghaire (01 285 2796). Pretty hybrid tea roses are 5.95 and so are the beautiful floribundas, which can give prolonged colour from June until October.

For the less experienced gardener, try patio and miniature roses (price 5.95). For bare-rooted roses ( €3 for climbers and ramblers), hold off planting until October.

If you like the unusual bedside lamps in the two-bedroom show apartments in Dunboyne Castle check out Spirit and Style Interiors Ltd design in Clane, Co Meath (045 892582), which decorated the show units and imported the lamps from France.

The creamy-beige silk shade with taupe tones is topped with feathers for dramatic effect. This stands on a base made from wrought iron with a cut glass feature.

The lamps retail for about €89 each. The quilted and embroidered silk and satin throw on the bed costs between €350 and €450, the matching cushions, €40 to €60.