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SOSCOUT SESSIONS // Episode #2 – Photographer Alex Hutchinson

MEET ALEX HUTCHINSON

Photographer Alex Hutchinson has built a career around the pursuit of light. Known for his cinematic, quietly powerful imagery, Alex’s work captures atmosphere as much as it does subject. Whether he’s shooting fashion editorials in Dublin or scouting dreamlike spaces abroad, his process always comes back to a simple question: where’s the light?

We sat down with Alex to talk about creative influences, the power of environment, and why simplicity always wins.

“Light is everything. Whether indoors or outdoors, I plan around when the light will hit best.”
— Alex Hutchinson

CREATIVE INFLUENCES

If you could have dinner with any creative from history and pick their brain about their process, who would it be?

I thought about this a lot, and I couldn’t really pick what I’d consider a traditional artist.
Terrence Malick would be the person I’d love to sit down with, just to understand how he thinks.

He directed The Tree of Life and A Hidden Life, and when I first picked up a camera around 2010 or 2011, those films completely changed how I saw photography. I owe a lot of my visual aesthetic to the way he shoots.

I can’t shoot like him, but I love telling visual stories that feel cinematic, moments that the viewer can connect to. People often ask if I tell models how to pose, but I don’t. I try to create an atmosphere that feels like a real moment.

Lighting, music, and the energy of the crew all have to be in sync. Watching interviews with Malick made me realise his process is similar: if the light is right and the moment’s there, everyone just moves instinctively and captures it. Then the story gets built in post.

A DOP who worked with him once said, “Working with Terrence made me not just a better cinematographer but a better person.” That says it all.

I’d also love to talk to Paul Thomas Anderson. There Will Be Blood is my favourite film of all time. From a visual storytelling perspective, it’s immaculate. My first question would probably be, “How did you get the budget to do this?”

Shot by Alex for 4thArq at Coal Lane House

FINDING INSPIRATION

Where are you finding inspiration at the moment?

I’m editing a shoot right now, and I’ve never seen Dublin look more like continental Europe, maybe even a bit like New York. I’ve been away so long that I’m seeing it differently.

I’d also been watching a lot of films before that shoot, which definitely influenced how I approached it. Photography goes in peaks and troughs. Sometimes you’re uninspired, and then suddenly something clicks and you’re back in it.

Even though I can’t shoot exactly like Terrence Malick, his visual storytelling still influences me. He uses natural light so beautifully, and I try to think the same way: how can I use the light that exists right now to tell a story?

Any recent films that inspired you?

One Battle After Another. Visually, it’s fascinating, more storytelling-driven than visual, but still cinematic.
There were evening scenes that just made me think, that’s incredible camera work.

I’m a nightmare to go to the cinema with because I’ll point out the lighting in a corner, and my wife’s like, “It’s just a corner.” But everything in a film is intentional. When it’s done right, it completely transports you.

When you’re creating for yourself rather than someone else, that’s when your true creative stamp comes through.

“Everything in a film is intentional. When it’s done right, it completely transports you.”

Shot by Alex with model Joanna Cooper at Coal Lane House

ON LOCATIONS AND LIGHT

When scouting or choosing a location, what do you look for that others might miss?

It depends on the brand, but I look for minimal distractions: clean, simple spaces with interesting textures and light. I like settings that absorb or reflect light in a subtle way. I keep a running list of scouted spots. When a project comes in, I match the brand, model, and wardrobe to the right location.

Ultimately, light is everything. Keeping the frame clean lets the garment and model remain the focus.

Can you think of a shoot where the location completely changed the concept?

Definitely. My first accidental cover shoot. We were at a Dublin hotel, shooting in one of their luxury suites, but it wasn’t working. The light was off, the energy was flat.

Then I walked into the bathroom: marble everywhere, glass shower, gold taps, huge mirrors. Perfect.

We ended up shooting six or eight looks in that one bathroom. It was supposed to be a simple four-page hair story, but the editor came in and said, “This is a full fashion shoot.”

One of those shots became the cover; the model perched on the sink in a huge blue dress, looking fierce. That location changed everything. You have to be able to adapt and trust your instincts when something isn’t working. That’s something that comes with experience too.

Shot by Alex for 4thArq at Coal Lane House

When has a location become another character in the story?

Coal Lane House, without a doubt. You could shoot there every day and never get the same result.

The first time I shot there was during the pandemic with Joanna Cooper’s brand. She couldn’t travel, so a friend connected me with the owner of this newly finished house: raw concrete, minimalist, beautiful light.

We sat on the photos for months because we knew the place would blow up once people saw it. Now, it’s been shot dozens of times, probably half by me.

What makes it special is how the light moves through it throughout the year. It transforms constantly, which keeps it inspiring.

“There are three essentials in fashion photography: location, styling, and model. If you get those right, you could take a terrible photo but you’ll get somewhere. If you have a poor location, good style, and good model, the location could end up being so distracting.“

Shot by Alex for Benetti Menswear at Coal Lane House

INSIDE THE CREATIVE PROCESS

Walk us through your thought process when you first step into a space.

The first thing I ask is, “Where’s the light?”
I use an app called Sun Surveyor to track it and see where it’ll hit in an hour, because that’s usually when the model’s ready.

I plan around that, but I also like working on the fly. I’ll ask the space owner when the light is best, then structure the day around it.

My dream location? A villa in Mallorca with Danish minimalist interiors and Moroccan warmth: soft orange walls, wood, cream furniture, sunlight from every direction. Minimal, warm, and distraction-free. That’s my idea of perfection.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in photography?

Go somewhere new. Changing your environment changes how you see light.
When you get there, reach out to an agency and ask to shoot with a model for an hour. No styling, no pressure. Just practice in a new space and rediscover what you love about photography.

And don’t over light. That’s my main thing. Don’t point a light at a model, point it away.

EVOLVING WITH SPACE

How has your relationship with environment changed over your career?

Massively. I started out shooting against graffiti walls because I thought they looked cool. Looking back, they were awful.

With time, I’ve realised simplicity is key. Clean, quiet environments let the model and story breathe. That’s what I love about spaces like Coal Lane House: every photographer sees it differently, and the results vary wildly.

The older I get, the more I’m drawn to gentle, natural images where I can just follow someone through a space, let them unfold. Lighting is still a challenge, but it’s also what keeps me learning. A day where the sun is too strong can ruin everything; summer is hard to shoot in because there’s a misunderstanding that you can shoot all day, but you can’t.

I’ve even started planning retreats for photographers who are ready to level up creatively. It’s about finding that spark again and pushing yourself to the next stage. (Keep an eye on Alex’s instagram for more information – @alexhutch)

GET IN TOUCH

Do you want access to location creatives who will help you scout and find the perfect location for your next project? Email us at hello@soscout.com

Below: Shot by Alex for Benetti Menswear at Coal Lane House

November 3, 2025
SOSCOUT SESSIONS // Episode #1 – Producer Gavin Thornberry from Bad Coyote

BEHIND THE SHOOT: HOW PRODUCER GAVIN THORNBERRY TURNS LOCATIONS INTO STORYTELLING POWERHOUSES

For producer Gavin Thornberry of Bad Coyote, creativity happens on a foundation of solid logistics – the schedule, the load-in, the layout of a room. His work includes projects for Electric Ireland and other brands that have filmed at SoScout locations. We sat down with Gavin to talk inspiration, problem-solving, and why the right location can completely transform a project.

DINNER WITH A CREATIVE GENIUS

“If I could pick anyone’s brain, it’d be Christopher Nolan,” Gavin says. “He’s so involved across every element of his productions, not just directing.”

What he’d want to know most? Regardless of budget, what’s the one problem that always comes up – and how does he solve it?

“Producing is all about problem-solving,” he adds. “As Clint Eastwood says, things are going to go wrong; it’s how you react when they do.”

SYSTEMISING INSPIRATION

This year, Gavin completely overhauled how he collects inspiration.

“I used to have links scattered across Vimeo, Instagram, LinkedIn – everywhere. Now I track everything in a Notion database. I can tag content by client or theme, so when a new brief lands, I can instantly pull ideas I’ve saved over the past year. It’s made my process so much faster and more intentional.”

(Note from the Scouts – Austin Kleon wrote about an analogue version of this, referencing Twyla Tharp’s The Creative Habit – link)

WHEN A LOCATION CHANGES EVERYTHING

One standout example was The Dublin Terrace.

“The client wanted a series of POV shots from inside appliances. We thought we’d have to use a green screen for some shots. But after some testing, chopping pots and pans with an angle grinder, with our DP, Callum Murphy, in my home kitchen we realised we could pull it off practically.

“When we recced The Dublin Terrace, everything lined up – dishwasher, washing machine, oven – all perfectly placed. We shot the whole thing in one day without a need for any green screen setups. The lighting from Conor McGuinness tied it together beautifully. That house made the production.”

WHEN THE LOCATION BECOMES A CHARACTER

Last year’s shoot with Zoo. for ESB and Science Blast needed a school – a challenge in itself.

“My wife’s a teacher, so she asked her principal if we could use their building. It’s over a hundred years old, and the room looked incredible on camera,” Gavin says. “David Christopher Lynch, our DP, set up the shots and it immediately felt real – we didn’t have to ‘sell’ it as a school.

“When a location is perfect, nobody notices, but it adds so much authenticity. Aoife and Michelle from Zoo., our art and creative directors, elevated it even further. It was my favourite-looking shoot of the year.”

PRECISION, PLANNING, AND THE MYTH OF ‘ON-TIME BY LUCK’

Bad Coyote has a reputation for smooth productions – and Gavin is quick to point out it’s not by chance.

“We always wrap on time or early – and it’s not luck. It’s planning. People don’t realise how much goes into that: the load-in, the meal breaks, even pre-ordering coffee. On one Monday shoot, I had everyone’s coffee and lunch picked on Friday. No time wasted, no interruptions. That’s my creative process – the numbers, the figures, the timelines. That way the creatives, the DP, the gaffer etc can do their job properly.”

He laughs: “I’ve always been on time. If I’m late, my mates assume something’s seriously wrong.”

BEYOND THE BOARDROOM: USING LOCATIONS TO TELL STORIES

Helping clients see a location as more than just a backdrop is a big part of Gavin’s role.
“It’s about pushing them past the obvious. The dreaded ‘boardroom shot’ comes up all the time – huge mahogany table, no flexibility. That’s why recces are vital.”

He recalls a shoot interviewing apprentice electricians:
“The client suggested filming in an office, but we pushed for the workshop. It was colder, sure, but visually it made sense – they were talking about their craft, surrounded by transformers and tools. It sold the story instantly.”

THINKING ABOUT LOCATION EARLY

“For me, location talk starts on the first call. What should it look like? What’s the budget? The backdrop can make or break a shoot.”

Gavin often brainstorms with clients live on calls, sometimes pulling options straight from SoScout’s platform.

“On the Electric Ireland Superhomes project, the brief called for a New York-style loft – not easy to find in Dublin. Then The Meeting House appeared on SoScout’s newsletter. I sent the link with two words: ‘maybe this.’ That was it. We picked the location before scripts or crew were finalised because it was just perfect.”

SCOUTING LIKE A PRODUCER

When translating a brief into spatial needs, Gavin looks for flexibility and practicality.
“Can we shoot multiple setups in one space? Is there a green room? Parking? Food nearby? You can’t underestimate those things.”

He shares one cautionary tale:
“On a recent project we didn’t get a recce – no street parking, three flights of stairs, no lift. Sixty minutes just to carry gear up. Compare that to the Electric Ireland Super Homes shoot – easy access, lift straight up, perfect day. David Christopher Lynch taught me early that a bad load-in can break a day.”

And creatively? “Location choice really clicks once the script or storyboard’s locked. If things are open-ended, I’ll show clients three very different options to get ideas flowing.”

ADVICE FOR ANYONE STARTING OUT

“I’ve got two pieces of advice,” he says.
“First, be sound. This job’s supposed to be fun. Clients don’t get to be on set often – help them enjoy it. No egos.”

“Second, expect things to go wrong. They always do. What matters is how you react.”

And for more established producers, he has this piece of advice:

“Trust your freelancers. Don’t micromanage – that’s why you hired them.”

READY TO FIND YOUR PERFECT SHOOT SPACE?

If you’re planning your next production and want to see what’s possible when the right location meets the right idea – get in touch with our Scouts.

We’re your location creatives unlocking the doors to previously inaccessible spaces for film, TV, PR, and content production – helping bring your vision to life.

October 15, 2025
Visions of Vitality: Exploring Ireland’s Most Photogenic Sports & Wellness Spots
WELLNESS AS AN INDUSTRY

The global wellness industry is worth $4.5 trillion, and it’s growing at double the speed of the global economy. According to Ogilvy’s recent Wellness Gap study, 77% of global consumers surveyed consider wellness to be very or extremely important. ¹

For content creators and brands tied in to this booming industry, authenticity is everything. Set your brand content in a tangible location, with a real feel, and suddenly the story becomes compelling. People want, more than anything else, to feel something. Even in this report on the wellness gap, when asked to to choose between feeling better and improving performance:

“the answer was overwhelming: people choose feeling over performing every single time. 74% prefer small, consistent habits over dramatic transformation. They want wellness that helps them feel like themselves, not some optimized version of themselves.” ²

SETTING THE SCENE

Ireland’s diverse and dramatic landscape gifts us rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines, SoScout brings you the locations that bring immediate credibility and atmosphere to any shoot. We provide the interior spaces where movement, wellness, and visual storytelling converge. From the intimate warmth of cosy saunas to the sharp energy of outdoor tennis courts, from historic estates with wild woodland trails to raw coastal settings where hot tubs meet sea winds, these environments don’t just look good on camera; they tell a story before a single word of copy is written.

Whether you’re crafting a campaign for an athletic brand, shooting editorial content for a wellness publication, or creating social content that needs to stop the scroll – the right location does half the work. Here’s our curated selection of Ireland’s most photogenic sports and wellness spaces, each available to hire individually and ready to elevate your next production.

COASTAL RAW: WHERE WELLNESS MEETS THE ELEMENTS

For brands seeking drama, authenticity, and the untamed beauty of Ireland’s Atlantic edge.

These locations are unapologetic in their wildness. In these locations, visions of wellness include hot water against cold wind, the mineral smell of the sea, and landscapes that dwarf your subjects in the best possible way.

HAZEL MOUNTAIN HOME

First up, we have Hazel Mountain Home, Co. Clare. This Scandi-inspired new build home set right next to the Burren comes with stunning landscape views, high ceilings and great natural light. It also has a heated outdoor swimming pool and sauna.

WINDY RIDGE

Over on the east coast is Dublin’s Windy Ridge. Perched on a stunning clifftop, this property offers breathtaking panoramic sea views paired with a sleek, modern Scandi coastal interior that effortlessly blends style and serenity.

It is also situated close to north county Dublin’s stunning ‘folding cliffs’ at Loughshinny.

THE HERITAGE ESTATE

Along the south east coast then we have The Heritage Estate – on the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. Mainly built in the 1800s the house has breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and across the county of Waterford. The main house offers 750sqm of space and there are 10 acres of lawns and woodland with views and access down to the beach. The courtyards, stables and function areas are all renovated and include an old barn which has been remodelled to become the fabulous “Nellie’s Bar”. Suitable for large productions and on-site accommodation.

WICKLOW INTERIORS: LIGHT, COLOUR & MOUNTAIN CALM

For brands wanting a minimalist cabin aesthetic or a wild characterful jungle, these locations are where modern design meets natural surroundings.

These Wicklow properties offer what every lifestyle brand craves: gorgeous interiors that photograph as well as the landscapes outside. Think: golden hour through floor-to-ceiling windows, fire pits at dusk, and that perfect balance of cosy and spacious.

THE WICKLOW CHALET

The Wicklow Chalet is a modern, architectural home with chalet-style pitched ceilings and sweeping views of The Wicklow Mountains. The light-filled interiors, cosy vibes and broad deck facing the mountains make it an ideal location for a yoga-inspired shoot.

CEDAR HOUSE

In north county Wicklow, Cedar House is a modern, architectural home clad in silvered cedar with wildflower gardens and a bright, lofty interior. Its indoor sauna and lush gardens make it ideal for luxe wellness brands.

THE GREEN HOUSE

Another north county Wicklow location is The Green House, a bright, eclectic home with stunning surrounding gardens and views of the Sugar Loaf mountain. Great ceiling height, character and variety of space with lots of personality and bold use of colour. The outdoor bath and shower framed by luscious foliage is a visual dream.

THE WOODLAND LODGE

Our final Wicklow property is The Woodland Lodge, a stunning woodland home with cleverly framed views of the surrounding landscape and neutral interiors perfect for shoots. Generously spacious interiors with cosy vibes and lots of natural light combined with stunning woodland surrounds including a hot tub make it ideal for many types of wild wellness brands.

ESTATE ELEGANCE: WELLNESS ON A LARGER SCALE

For productions requiring refinement, space, and that ineffable sense of occasion.

These aren’t just locations, they’re experiences. With tennis courts framed by woodland, pool tables in period rooms, and acres of grounds for everything from sunrise yoga to team building content, these estates offer scale and sophistication.

CLONALIS HOUSE

Clonalis House is in county Roscommon. Wild gardens, woodland trails and an outdoor tennis court surround an impeccably restored historic Irish country house, built in 1878.

THE GEORGIAN ESTATE

This classic walled Georgian Estate is set on 150 acres of private land with thoughtfully designed contemporary interiors encompassing the original features of the property. The location is secluded and private, can accommodate large productions and has an outdoor tennis court in the grounds also.

MANOR ESTATE

The Manor Estate in county Tipperary is a period manor house on an estate with a farm, out-buildings, workers sheds, stables, fernery, gardens, fields, a lake and surrounded by incredible views of the surrounding hills. Period charm and country living bathed in great light.

ATHLETIC FOUNDATIONS: AUTHENTIC TRAINING SPACES

For brands looking for real gym energy. No frills, just honest sweat equity.

Sometimes you don’t want polish. You want echo-y basketballs, scuffed floors, and the unmistakable atmosphere of actual athletic spaces. These locations bring credibility and nostalgia to lifestyle narratives.

THE FACTORY

A large factory / loft style space in Dublin 1 full of original industrial features and lots of interesting light. The Factory is a perfect raw canvas for filming, photo shoots & events. Its character is ideal for sporting backdrops also – think martial arts, athletics and sport-inspired street style.

OLD SCHOOL

A traditional school building in Dublin city with high ceiling hall spaces, bright colour blocking & original features, Old School is the perfect location for real-life gymnasium vibes – the indoor court is complete with wooden gym benches and basetball hoop and outdoor playground spaces are available also.

In a wellness industry growing at twice the speed of the global economy, your content needs locations that deliver both visual impact and authentic storytelling. Let’s talk about your next shoot and match you with the setting that brings your brand’s vision to life.

Start planning your next shoot right now with SoScout.
1. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/02/02/how-brands-can-close-the-wellness-gap/
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2. https://beardwood.com/updates/the-wellness-gap-the-four-tensions-breaking-mod/ ↩︎
October 9, 2025
Real Homes, Real Kitchens: SoScout’s Kitchen Edit
The project brief that calls for a kitchen – what next?

Some key considerations when choosing a kitchen location include functionality, visual style/ personality, production logistics and, most importantly, what your audience is truly looking for.

Cookery schools and studios often offer kitchen spaces for film and still photography hire – and while you know they’ll have the space to accommodate the crew, and function well, the visuals are limited and they won’t necessarily resonate with your audience. They’ll be lacking the personality (and the emotional connection) that our viewers want from us more and more.

Audiences today are looking for content that connects with them on a real, emotional level. They want genuine, authentic-feeling imagery/ video that looks beautiful too. And you, as the brand, want something that draws them in, resonates with them and leaves a memorable impression.

To do that you need a location that aligns tightly with the brand’s story, its aesthetic and its visual identity. In order to tell the story well, you might want a space that feels aspirational, or you may be looking for something more relatable and down-to-earth. The space should feel like a natural extension of brand values, whether that’s family-focused, polished modern living, or artisanal craftsmanship. Whatever it is you’re looking for, you can be sure to find it within SoScout’s curated directory.

Ready to see how location creatives
work their magic?

Finding the perfect location isn’t just about pretty pictures in a database. It’s about understanding your creative vision, reading between the lines of your brief, and matching you with spaces that work both creatively and logistically.

Get our free Location Matching Guide and discover how we help productions find their location soulmate. You’ll read 5 real success stories where our strategic recommendations unlocked the creative vision in ways our clients hadn’t imagined – including one production that saved 25% on their location costs.

Plus, you’ll get 3 insider emails about working with our platform, featuring platform tours, booking tips from our most successful clients, and behind-the-scenes insights into how we vet properties.

GET THE FREE GUIDE

Learn how location creatives match production briefs to shoot-ready locations and save your shoot.

What’s Central to the Kitchen-Based Brief?

If cookery demos or recipe-led content are on the cards, island hobs are crucial so that the content is grounded within the kitchen and there are no risks of anyone showing their back to the camera. This gives easy access to natural interaction and a variety of angles that show the action, all in the beautiful characterful surrounds of a curated kitchen.

It’s also important to consider the breadth of content that’s required – kitchen-based content may require a dining set up or a cosy snug/ seating area to help maximise the content you get from one shoot – and these additional areas might be required to be tonally very similar to the kitchen, or very different. Each brief has its own requirements, and we’re here to help you fulfil them!

Here’s a Look at Some of Our Central-Hob Kitchens:

The Bright Contemporary, Roscommon

The Modern Neutral – Dublin

The Colourful Scandi, Dublin

Teach An Fod Dubh, Cavan

The Designer’s Oasis, Galway

The Dublin Terrace, Dublin

SoScout Locations Bring Character

If the central hob is not your top priority, then personality and character will be. You’ll be looking for something really aspirational for a luxury brand or product – a space with high-end finishes, stunning details or unique features that most people don’t have in their own home. Desire is ignited because of the luxury and the polish, but it still feels real, and achievable.

… even when the brief calls for ‘an ordinary family home’ it still needs to look good.

More family-driven brands will want to work in kitchens that are still interesting and curated, but just not quite as polished. These homes are more relatable, and are more about authenticity than perfection – the vibe is more ‘this could be my kitchen’ rather than, ‘oh, I’d love to live there’.

Of course, a lot of SoScout’s homes and kitchens are a hybrid of the two – they are homes and spaces that feel real and achievable, but elevated. They are usually well-designed, clearly loved and used, but also beautifully styled. Because, let’s face it, even when the brief calls for ‘an ordinary family home’ it still needs to look good.

Whatever aesthetic you’re pursuing, SoScout’s curated directory offers carefully selected authentic home kitchens that align with different brand stories and creative visions. We’ve broken them down by aesthetics, plenty of these examples have central hobs also.

Cottage-Core Kitchens

Tapestry House, Dublinhttp://Tapestry House, Dublin

The Woodland Lodge, Wicklow

Textured Modern Kitchens

Lark House, Dublin

Linea House, London

Park Row Collective 1, Dublin

Luxe Eclectic Kitchens

The Coach House, Dublin

The Vibrant Eclectic, Dublinhttps://soscout.com/property/12-the-vibrant-eclectic/

Industrial-Vibe Kitchens

The Black Box, Dublin

The Subterranean, Dublin

Traditional Style Kitchens

Eala House, Dublin

Mountrothe House, Kilkennyhttps://soscout.com/property/126-mountrothe-house/

The Dublin Cottage, Dublin

Production Logistics

Alongside fulfilling the aesthetic aspect of the brief, production logistics are just as important. Production crews will have specific requirements for access, noise, set-up or staging and power – these are all provided with the property’s individual profile.

SoScout properties are often family homes, each of our property profiles lists the accessible and off-limits areas in each home and the house rules for each location. Local catering options are listed also – because while food preparation, heating and cooking can happen as part of a food brand shoot with prior arrangement, it’s a firm no for crew! Larger productions will use catering trucks and if the property is hired for an event, there is usually space for a food truck service on site.

When working in a SoScout property, you’re not just hiring a location, you’re being welcomed into a home that holds memories, family traditions, and daily routines. Our homeowners are excited to share their property with you, to help bring creative projects to life – and this space sharing comes with responsibilities that extend far beyond typical studio etiquette. Clean-up will be proportional to how extensively you’ve used the space and appliances – and homeowners will expect their kitchen to be left in the same condition as you found it in the first place, with the utmost care taken of every item.

Treating their homes with the same care you’d want for your own space ensures positive experiences for everyone involved and helps build the trust that makes authentic location work possible.

Evaluating potential spaces

When scouting directly for a kitchen location, the checklist will be extensive and detailed. The scout will make detailed evaluations based on the project brief and their experience. SoScout locations have all already met our baseline requirements –
- the property has visual appeal and unique characterful features
- the location will add value to a production
- the logistics are manageable and available for review (parking, accessibility, crew facilities, noise etc)
- the kitchen photographs well and is well-maintained
- the homeowner is not only open to filming in their home, but they are educated in what to expect and how to manage a shoot on site and, of course,
- there are clear agreements in place
Additionally, and depending on the brief, the questions you’ll have to answer are:
- Does it align with the brand’s personality and visual identity?
- Are there other parts of the property that are needed or can be used for additional content, establishing shots or contextual elements – ie dining tables, living spaces, outdoor areas?
And of course, everything else that goes with a brilliant, high quality production!

Some of our kitchens in action

SoScout kitchens (and dining tables!)

Jane Seymour in Acorn TV’s Relative Secrets at 42 The Coach House, Dublin

SuperValu at Coal Lane House, Dublin

Revive Active at Cedar House, Wicklow

The Headplan at The Modern Neutral, Dublin

SuperValu at Broadstone, Dublin

SuperValu at Broadstone, Dublin

Irish Craft Cocktails at The Monkstown Home, Dublin

We have more in-depth kitchen profiles available, get in touch with us and share your brief so that we can find your brand’s kitchen soulmate!

hello@soscout.com

Start planning your next shoot right now with SoScout.
September 30, 2025
Top Colourful Locations

WHEN THE BRIEF CALLS FOR COLOUR

While we’re big fans of the versatility of a neutral toned home and the visual appeal of a textural palette, there will always be a place in our hearts for the playfulness that colourful interiors bring to a shoot.
Bold colour will sometimes be the secret weapon your brand needs – inviting and joyful tones that align with and augment the brand’s already vibrant personality. From bold accent walls to maximalist layers, each of these properties brings something distinctive to the shoot, triggering a set of emotional responses that a neutral backdrop won’t – and when used correctly, will complement your subject rather than compete.

Today we’re looking at some of SoScout’s most colourful locations in Ireland, we have properties in counties Dublin, Cork, Wicklow & Clare. Check them out.

THE COLOURFUL SCANDI

A 1950’s Dublin property with a colourful extension and renovation. Filled with interesting textures and great light, this is a unique & characterful home.

THE GREEN HOUSE

A bright, eclectic home with stunning surrounding gardens and views of the Sugar Loaf mountain. Great ceiling height, character and variety of space with lots of personality and bold use of colour.

BELLTOWER PLACE

A Cork city-centre terraced location with well designed, bright interiors. This location, albeit compact, packs a punch with it’s personality with plenty of variety for shoot days.

TAPESTRY HOUSE

A Georgian townhouse that blends boho flair with historical charm. Exposed brick walls, mottled plaster and original timber floors create a warm, textured ambiance with design details that pay homage to the home’s Georgian heritage, making this townhouse a perfect fusion of historic character and free-spirited style.

THE SUBTERRANEAN

An underground new build home with lots of character & personality – full of interesting texture and styling.

ARCHITECT’S RESIDENCE

A clever renovation of a period property that reveals colour & character in unexpected places.

Ready to see how location creatives
work their magic?

Finding the perfect location isn’t just about pretty pictures in a database. It’s about understanding your creative vision, reading between the lines of your brief, and matching you with spaces that work both creatively and logistically.

Get our free Location Matching Guide and discover how we help productions find their location soulmate. You’ll read 5 real success stories where our strategic recommendations unlocked the creative vision in ways our clients hadn’t imagined – including one production that saved 25% on their location costs.

Plus, you’ll get 3 insider emails about working with our platform, featuring platform tours, booking tips from our most successful clients, and behind-the-scenes insights into how we vet properties.

GET THE FREE GUIDE

Learn how location creatives match production briefs to shoot-ready locations and save your shoot.

HAZEL MOUNTAIN HOME

A scandi inspired new build home in north Co. Clare with stunning landscape views, high ceilings and great natural light.

THE CHURCHTOWN HOME

A modern family home in South Dublin with great ceiling height & light, perfect for shoots. Interiors are warm, neutral with pops of colour & texture throughout.

CHROMA COTTAGE

A colourful, coastal Dublin property with eclectic interiors and fantastic views.

THE FARMHOUSE

This colourful, eclectic farmhouse in Cork is full of charm and character, offering a variety of unique backdrops for shoots. With vibrant decor, vintage touches, and quirky details throughout, it’s a versatile, visually rich location.

BUTTERFLY HOUSE

A bold, colorful home in Dublin’s city centre, with striking views of the sea. The interiors are a celebration of vibrant hues, with each room carefully designed to reflect a mix of modern flair and traditional charm. From rich blues to bright accents, the colors create a lively, energetic atmosphere throughout.

Get in touch with us today to share your brief and let our location creatives find the location soulmate for your next shoot.

September 25, 2025
How Great Locations Amplify Creative Vision

COAL LANE HOUSE: A CASE STUDY

THE CREATIVE EQUATION

We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again – concept plus SoScout location equals much more than the sum of its parts. Today we’re taking a look at SoScout’s flagship location, Coal Lane House, to see just how versatile and dynamic one location together with the right creatives can be.

SoScout’s locations all have one thing in common – personality. And SoScout’s clients all have one thing in common – a brand with its own unique character and a strong creative vision. When a strong brand meets a location with an aligned personality, the location serves to amplify that creative vision and gives unique results every single time.

Ready to see how location creatives
work their magic?

Finding the perfect location isn’t just about pretty pictures in a database. It’s about understanding your creative vision, reading between the lines of your brief, and matching you with spaces that work both creatively and logistically.

Get our free Location Matching Guide and discover how we help productions find their location soulmate. You’ll read 5 real success stories where our strategic recommendations unlocked the creative vision in ways our clients hadn’t imagined – including one production that saved 25% on their location costs.

Plus, you’ll get 3 insider emails about working with our platform, featuring platform tours, booking tips from our most successful clients, and behind-the-scenes insights into how we vet properties.

GET THE FREE GUIDE

Learn how location creatives match production briefs to shoot-ready locations and save your shoot.

WHY COAL LANE HOUSE WORKS

Coal Lane House is the home of SoScout’s founder, interior designer Stephanie O’Sullivan and where SoScout started from. Built on the site of an old leather warehouse and designed by Stephanie and her architect husband, Graham, it embodies many of the characteristics we look for in our directory locations, and has the two primary features we require – space and personality.

Some interior views of Coal Lane House

Spacious interiors are essential for production crews, though we do also curate intimate spaces for specific creative needs. Through its mix of industrial textures, mid century furnishings and minimalist styling, Coal Lane has its own very unique personality, providing a rich canvas for creatives to work with. This case study aims to illustrate just how incredibly foundational a great location is to a brand shoot and show that the location doesn’t define the outcome.

When creative teams choose and use the right location for a campaign, and use it well, the return on investment is huge. The result is that clients get exceptional, authentic-feeling assets that will attract and compel their audience in all the right ways – the Coal Lane House case study proves just that.

HOW GREAT LOCATIONS ELEVATE GREAT IDEAS

Coal Lane’s rich visual textures and interesting natural light are what make this space such a creative catalyst – you’ll see how natural-light shoots take advantage of how the light changes throughout the day and shoots with additional lighting make the most of the subtle surface texture of the fair-faced concrete walls. Some brands have opted to dwell in the velvety tones and warm glow of diffused natural light while others have exploited the industrial vibe that you get when you bring additional lighting to concrete surfaces.

The flow of the spaces, the combination of furnishings and surface textures and how the space feels all give creative teams something substantial to work with, a way to take the concept they’ve designed and make it into something unique to them. The non-studio setting makes these concepts feel real to the viewer/ consumer too, a compelling authenticity that can’t be manufactured.

CASE STUDY: FIFTEEN CREATIVE TEAMS, ONE INSPIRING LOCATION

Across these next few slides you’ll see how different brands have used the same structural elements, surface textures and spaces to support their brand’s aesthetic. You’ll see how each creative team chose to use available and/ or additional lighting to support their vision and how the space’s personality complimented each brand while still offering a multitude of creative possibilities. Rather than over explain, we’ll let the visuals do the talking. Below you’ll see how 15 different brands have used Coal Lane House as the dynamic backdrop to their fashion brand – and this selection is only fashion brands.

Scroll down to see the location in action and a wrap up at the end.

CREATIVE EXPERTISE

When hiring a creative team to execute your vision, or working with in-house creatives, the mark of their expertise will be in their capacity to exploit a location to its fullest potential. Styling, casting, lighting and direction all come together to create something unique against the rich canvas of a genuine location that will not only compliment the brand’s personality but elevate the aesthetic and lend a whole new dimension to the campaign story.

Ready to see how location creatives
work their magic?

Finding the perfect location isn’t just about pretty pictures in a database. It’s about understanding your creative vision, reading between the lines of your brief, and matching you with spaces that work both creatively and logistically.

Get our free Location Matching Guide and discover how we help productions find their location soulmate. You’ll read 5 real success stories where our strategic recommendations unlocked the creative vision in ways our clients hadn’t imagined – including one production that saved 25% on their location costs.

Plus, you’ll get 3 insider emails about working with our platform, featuring platform tours, booking tips from our most successful clients, and behind-the-scenes insights into how we vet properties.

GET THE FREE GUIDE

Learn how location creatives match production briefs to shoot-ready locations and save your shoot.

CHARACTERFUL PROPERTIES AS THE RICH CANVAS, NOT THE DNA

SoScout is a curated directory of properties that are shoot-ready and will lend their personality to a campaign as the rich canvas for the creative team to work on, but they are not the DNA of the shoot. Each production crew and brief brings itself to a location in a symbiotic relationship that produces something different every single time to create effective, compelling campaign material.

When creative teams choose and use the right location for a campaign, and use it well, the return on investment is huge. The result is that clients get exceptional, authentic-feeling assets that will attract and compel their audience in all the right ways – the Coal Lane House case study proves just that.

Ready to see how the right location can amplify your brand’s creative vision? Explore our curated directory and discover your brand’s location soul mate.

EXPLORE ALL LOCATIONS

September 18, 2025
Spotlight on Belfast and Our Northern Irish Locations
“Belfast is different. Our history, our culture, our music, our industrial heritage, even our sense of humour all set us apart from other cities. So too does how our city centre has developed over recent decades.” – Andrew Webb, Chief Economist, Grant Thornton
BELFAST‘S CREATIVE REVIVAL

Belfast is focused on growth, shaping its future to meet the needs of its people – investing in high growth sectors that create local opportunities and in the foundations that support long-term, inclusive growth.

One area of focus is the city’s creative and digital sector. Studio Ulster – a new, world-class virtual production centre – has been launched as a one-stop shop for movie makers, game designers and film editors. It strengthens Northern Ireland’s ability to attract productions of all scales and is expected to bring in significant private investment. ¹

The ripple effects span out across the city and the region, the rising tide lifting all boats. Investment in towns and cities combined with the region’s incredible natural beauty makes Northern Ireland an ideal choice for film, TV and commercial shoots.

WHY NORTHERN IRELAND FOR YOUR NEXT SHOOT

The ripple effects span out across the city and the region, the rising tide lifting all boats. Investment in towns and cities combined with the region’s incredible natural beauty makes Northern Ireland an ideal choice for film, TV and commercial shoots. Successful productions like Game of Thrones and Line of Duty have helped build a skilled crew base in the province and financial incentives like funding from Northern Ireland Screen and UK Film Tax Relief and High-End TV Tax Relief make commercial sense for screen productions.

SOSCOUT’S NORTHERN IRELAND PORTFOLIO

The locations that SoScout works with in the region are as diverse in their characteristics as the landscape they’re set in. Currently spanning across four counties, each property has its own unique character and personality. From a 200 year old Georgian residence to modern, light-filled open plan homes with stunning views, our properties cover it all.

Over the last few years, SoScout has worked with several home furnishing companies, jewellery brands and eco-products in our Northern Irish properties, offering shoot-ready locations to brands ready to grow their visual assets and their audience with authentic settings that lend their personality to the shoot. Stunning backdrops not only impress your audience, but they play a huge part in telling the story of your brand. The perfect location is easy to work in and also sets the right vibe – it tells your audience exactly who you are and what your brand means.

WHY LOCATIONS CAN MAKE OR BREAK A SHOOT

Finding a location with the right personality elevates your product or service – aligning your brand with that personality gives you an edge that can’t always be measured. That just-right setting for your shoot does a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to communicating your message and attracting the right audience.

At SoScout we are location creatives – helping brands find their location soulmate. Whether the vibe is colourful and energetic, eclectic and warm, or contemporary and earthy – we’ve got it.

BELFAST & COUNTY ANTRIM

Belfast city’s mix of Victorian grandeur and modern architecture provide a sophisticated urban backdrop, while Co. Antrim’s stunning coastline brings all the natural drama. Our three Belfast properties are no different. And accessible too – all served by Belfast City Airport, and a two hour drive from Dublin city centre.

MELMORE HOUSE

A transformed Victorian Villa overlooking Belfast Lough, stunning interiors and a new open plan layout allows for an abundance of natural light and views over the landscape.

View Property

HAMPTON HOUSE

A period property with tasteful renovations, embracing the original building features. Tall ceilings and large windows means this location has lots of natural light.

View Property

1920s COTTAGE

A charming 1920s cottage style detached property with original features. Comprises several ground floor rooms with rustic ceiling beams, fireplaces, original doors and nostalgic decor. The garden is surrounded by mature plants and trees and two concrete outhouses, one of which is a derelict two storey garage/workshop.

View Property

COUNTY DOWN

From the shores of Strangford Lough to the rolling mountains of Mourne, SoScout’s Co. Down properties are as diverse as its geography.

TURRET PLACE

A period property built in 1904, sitting in the heart of the city on private grounds, retaining many of its original features. This property is both unique and full of original character.

View Property

BATCH HOUSE

This minimalist, Scandi-inspired house features clean lines, neutral tones, and natural materials. Large windows offer stunning views of a lush garden, blending the indoors with nature. The simple design focuses on functionality, with a calming palette of whites, grays, and soft wood accents, making it a tranquil space. This property is a half hour drive from Belfast City Airport and 90 minutes from Dublin city centre.

View Property

THE OLD MILL

The Old Mill is a 200 year old mill that’s been tastefully restored into a warm, welcoming family home.

View Property

MOURNE LODGE

A barn style black timber clad house on a farm overlooking the Mourne Mountains. Interiors are calm & neutral with high ceilings and plenty of light. Designed with architectural integrity to its rural surroundings. Just under an hour from Belfast Airport and less than ninety minutes from Dublin Airport.

View Property

STRANGFORD LOUGH HOME

A light filled home on the shores of Strangford Lough, an incredible waterside location with private jetty and uninterrupted views.

View Property

COUNTY ARMAGH

THE COUNTRY ESTATE is a gem in rural Armagh, also known as Orchard County – a stunning Georgian gentleman’s residence, built c.1815, retaining an abundance of original features, situated in an extensive private grounds with lakeside views and outbuildings. It has the winning combination of offering complete privacy, a stunning landscape and period charm all less than an hour from Belfast city. It can accommodate larger crews and is also available for filming bigger projects.

View Property

COUNTY DERRY

Our Derry property, GLEBE HOUSE – close to the shores of Lough Foyle and just minutes from Derry Airport – opens up Northern Ireland’s spectacular northwest coast. A modern, rural timber structure house architecturally inspired by traditional Irish Longhouses, this property is full of natural light, interesting texture and cleverly framed views of the stunning landscape.

View Property

The combination of dramatic natural settings and nearby Derry city’s historic urban backdrops makes this location exceptionally versatile, suitable for everything from adventure gear campaigns to luxury lifestyle content.

WHAT OUR NORTHERN IRELAND PROPERTIES DELIVER
- Outstanding value – With the exception of Melmore Place (€162p/h) each of these properties are available at under €150p/h based on a full day and offer a huge selection of looks and possibilities. Competitive rates and transparent pricing make SoScout’s always-reliable locations a no-brainer for shooting & filming in Northern Ireland.
- SoScout’s guaranteed authentic character – Each property offers genuine character that can’t be replicated in studios – pick from period elegance, rural charm, dramatic architecture or light-filled modern surrounds.
- Shoot-ready & logistics taken care of – Every location has been assessed for filming & shooting practicalities. Parking, access, wifi and power are all noted on the property profile because we know these details can make or break your shoot day. We’ve also recce’d the surrounding area to bring you info on local shops, food & coffee for the on-site essentials.
- Ease of access – Our three Belfast locations are in close proximity to Belfast City Airport, Armagh and Down properties average just 30 minutes away and 90 minutes from Dublin Airport. Our Derry location is under 10 minutes from City of Derry Airport. International (or domestic) crews can land and be on location faster than most city-to-studio commutes.
All of this with the unique and interesting quality of light that can be found across the breadth of the north offer the perfect setting for your creative vision to come to life.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Location? Contact our location creatives to discuss your brief or browse the platform yourself.

Contact Our Scouts Today
1. PwC Good Growth in Belfast Report, 2025 – https://www.pwc.co.uk/industries/government-public-sector/good-growth/2025/belfast.html ↩︎
September 12, 2025
Cliff-top Case Study: Spotlight on Waterford

When location scouting becomes location creating – a behind-the-scenes look.

SOSCOUT – YOUR LOCATION CREATIVES

Today we’re taking you behind the scenes at SoScout – not to show you inside the presses or cupboards of our homes, but how our location scouting process works, in real life and in real time. SoScout is a location platform, but it is so much more than a location directory, we are location creatives.

The Challenge

Let’s set the scene – you’re a filmmaker with a vision, a deadline and a budget. You know what you need to film your project, but where do you start? Web searches, emails, calls… You need the perfect cliff-top location in Ireland – something dramatic, accessible, reliable and film-ready, but the weeks of scouting you’re getting quoted for will eat your budget up. Sound familiar?

We see this happen time and time again within the industry, directors and/ or location managers spend precious pre-production time doing letter drops, making site visits, and trying to piece together the perfect combination of locations that will serve their story. Complications arise at every turn – logistics such as access, availability and permissions get in the way, or it’s got all the parking in the world but the aesthetics don’t match up. Meanwhile, the deadline moves ever-closer and the budget is shrinking with every hour spent on the search.

The Enquiry

We recently had an enquiry for one of our Dublin-based cliffside properties from an overseas film production who were told that Dublin would be their ideal location in Ireland – close to the airport, easy travel, lots of shoreline.

So they chose a beautiful property, and enquired about it. The cliff-top location was stunning, offering the dramatic coastal backdrop they needed for key exterior scenes. The property seemed perfect for their vision, with sweeping sea views and the kind of rugged Irish coastline that international audiences expect to see.

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The Call Sheet is our regular deep dive into the world of SoScout. In each issue we’ll take you on a fresh Recce to one of our newest properties, Showcase a collaboration from our Seekers and bring you fresh perspectives and expert insights from within the industry in the Journal.

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The Conversation

Then, as usually happens, a conversation opened up between the director and our scouts and it turned out that as well as the cliff side property, they also needed a café, a classroom and a bedroom – they were going to have to find additional properties to set the café and the classroom, and hopefully relatively close by.

This is the complicated nature of location scouting – the logistical puzzle that must support the visual and aesthetic requirements. Finding these additional locations near their chosen cliff-top property in Dublin would mean separate contracts, multiple site visits, additional paperwork, and significantly increased costs.

Our scouts, practiced designers with years of experience interrogating client requests, asked plenty of (the right) questions – What was the story they were telling? What was the relationship between these different locations in the narrative? How many crew members would they need to accommodate? What was their overall budget for locations? These conversations often reveal that the initial enquiry might not be the most efficient solution for the production’s actual needs.

As the conversation unfolded, our scouts began to understand on a deeper level what this production was looking for and we offered them a new suggestion – The Heritage Estate in Co. Waterford.

This recommendation came from our team’s intimate knowledge of every property on our books. Rather than simply matching keywords to locations, our scouts were able to see the bigger picture. The Heritage Estate offered something remarkable – all the elements this production needed within a single property, eliminating the need for multiple locations, multiple contracts, and the logistical headaches that come with coordinating shoots across different sites.

Ticking all the boxes on one singular property is any director’s dream, and with the helpful addition of lower accommodation and scouting costs, it was a winner. Not only did we find them an ideal location that they’re excited to use, SoScout saved this production around 25% of their projected location costs (scout fees + multiple location hire fees). Imagine what you could do with an extra 25% to play with in your budget?

WHY YOUR BRIEF MATTERS

This is why your brief is so important to us – as location creatives we combine our in-depth understanding of all our properties with an ability to interrogate and interpret your brief from a visual/ creative point of view (as well as logistics, of course). We know what our properties are capable of and we can see what your project needs to make it work.

This depth of knowledge allows us to see possibilities that might not be immediately obvious from photographs or basic descriptions.

When filmmakers & creatives share their vision with us, we’re not just matching specifications – we’re solving creative and logistical challenges. We can suggest alternative approaches that might serve the story better while also serving the budget more effectively.

THE SOSCOUT ADVANTAGE

And icing on the cake for this director and team – the property manager has bought into the project and is fully on board, offering local knowledge, insights into other locations that would be useful to the production team, with a true commitment to seeing the project come to fruition.

Our property owners know what to expect and how a shoot runs, and just like at The Heritage Estate, they’re dedicated to the success of the project. While SoScout doesn’t manage the location during the shoot, we are the intermediary who writes the contract and arranges everything in advance. This then leaves the location manager to the job they’re there to do – manage the location during the shoot and ensure that everything runs smoothly, sticking to the timeline and the budget (that now has a little extra in it thanks to SoScout.)

THE HERITAGE ESTATE

The Heritage Estate is property 105 on our list and is nestled in the heart of Annestown village, on the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. The estate, most of which was built in the 1800s, has breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and across the county of Waterford. The main house offers 750sqm of space and there are 10 acres of lawns and woodland with views and access down to the beach. The courtyards, stables and function areas are all renovated and include an old barn which has been remodelled to become the fabulous “Nellie’s Bar”.

From dramatic clifftop scenes to cozy interior moments, the Heritage Estate offers filmmakers the rare luxury of multiple cinematic settings in one location.

WATERFORD: A CREATIVE PRODUCTION HUB

With Waterford being such a great solution for this production, let’s explore more of what the stunning county has to offer – in terms of SoScout properties, the landscape, some crew accommodation solutions and other production creatives.

SoScout Properties in Waterford

As of late 2025, SoScout has 4 properties in our directory.

127 The Clifftop House

This clifftop home features light, neutral interiors with a clean Scandinavian style. Large windows fill the space with natural light and showcase stunning ocean views. View Property

55 The Hideaway

A stunning woodland home with cleverly framed views of the surrounding landscape paired with eclectic, warm interiors. View Property

106 The 60’s Haven

A lovingly renovated 1960’s home with a beautiful haven of a garden. It also features our “The Hideaway” location on site, available combined or individually with possible options for an overnight stay. View Property

105 The Heritage Estate

The Heritage Estate is nestled in the heart of Annestown village, on the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. Mainly built in the 1800s the house has breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and across the county of Waterford. The main house offers 750sqm of space and there are 10 acres of lawns and woodland with views and access down to the beach. The courtyards, stables and function areas are all renovated and include an old barn which has been remodelled to become the fabulous “Nellie’s Bar”. Suitable for large productions and on-site accommodation (separate building) View Property

Waterford’s Landscape

Waterford boasts an incredibly dynamic landscape – including a dramatic viaduct, stunning beaches along the Copper Coast and beautiful inland hills and lakes. It represents everything that makes Ireland such an attractive filming destination, but with the added advantage of being less saturated than some of the more obvious choices.

And yes, it is that beautiful – the Copper Coast is also a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Production Support

For productions, this means authentic Irish locations without the premium prices and availability issues that sometimes come with more established filming areas. The thriving creative community in Waterford is also really worth noting, with local talent and services that can support productions of all sizes. This ecosystem of film-friendly people and businesses can be accessed through The Waterford Film Centre.

Accomodation Options

30 minutes inland from Waterford Airport is Tom’s Country Cottage

A 35 minute drive south west from Waterford Airport brings you to The Greenway & Copper Coast Hostel

Further along the south coast of Ireland, close to our properties The 60’s Haven and The Hideaway, just an hour’s drive from Waterford Airport is the town of Dungarvan, with the Dungarvan Hostel and Bed & Breakfast and Árus Brúgha (Dungarvan Hostel)

Waterford City Erbnb and Anchorage Guest House are right in the heart of Waterford itself.

Start planning your next shoot right now with SoScout – contact us via our enquiries form (by selecting the property/ properties you want to enquire about) or email us directly at hello@soscout.com

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The Call Sheet is our regular deep dive into the world of SoScout. In each issue we’ll take you on a fresh Recce to one of our newest properties, Showcase a collaboration from our Seekers and bring you fresh perspectives and expert insights from within the industry in the Journal.

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August 14, 2025
12 Seasonal Locations from SoScout

Planning shoots for Christmas? Let us help!

Today we’re sharing a gorgeous selection of homes that are bursting with character, as well as ticking the seasonal boxes our clients look for.

Whether you’re looking for gravel driveways, cosy fireplaces, halls fit to be decked, or intimate dining tables for get togethers, we’ve got you. Today, we’ve got the SoScout 12 Locations of Christmas – and if you’re not seeing quite what you’re looking for, get in touch with us at hello@soscout.com with your brief and let us help you find the soulmate location for your campaign.

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The Call Sheet is our regular deep dive into the world of SoScout. In each issue we’ll take you on a fresh Recce to one of our newest properties, Showcase a collaboration from our Seekers and bring you fresh perspectives and expert insights from within the industry in the Journal.

Sign up so that you can be the first to look around our new locations, get inspired by what other seekers are doing and get thoughtful and thought-provoking articles straight to your inbox.

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118 The Victorian Farmhouse | Dublin

A restored & renovated Victorian Farmhouse set in the Dublin suburbs with interiors that celebrate the heritage of the property. The detached nature of the house, sitting on it’s own grounds, makes it a unique location in the Dublin area. View Property

85 Archway Residence | Dublin

A traditional red brick home that’s undergone thoughtful renovation with an incredibly unique extension, there’s a ton of space & variety in this location, perfect for lots of settings on shoot days. View Property

57 The Dublin Terrace | Dublin

A South Dublin location with well designed, bright interiors. An Edwardian terraced home with a modern renovation & warm, neutral interiors. View Property

100 The Luxe Eclectic | Dublin

Eclectic luxury in a period property with a modern extension providing a variety of backdrops and settings from measured opulence to chic simplicity. View Property

70 The Red Brick Home | Dublin

A renovated red brick home in city centre Dublin, full of light, plants and neutral interiors – a great backdrop for shoots & filming. View Property

147 Green Hollow House | Wexford

This grand country home in Wexford sits quietly in the green countryside, with traditional cottage interiors that bring warmth and comfort to its spacious, timeless setting. On-site parking. Suitable for Large Productions. View Property

153 Burgundy House | Dublin

This cool city house mixes old charm with modern style. A sleek, minimalist extension opens to a bright courtyard. Inside, a 70s burgundy and forest green palette pops against soft Scandi neutrals. The space feels fun, relaxed and full of personality. The dining space is unique, not open plan, traditional in format with wallpaper and furniture that pays homage to the home’s roots. This property neighbours our Coal Lane House location. View Property

109 Aughrim House | Dublin

A charming family home in Dublin that combines traditional architectural features with midcentury furnishings. Heritage details, such as original doors, high ceilings, and classic woodwork, highlight the home’s character. View Property

41 The Woodland Lodge | Wicklow

A stunning woodland home with cleverly framed views of the surrounding landscape and neutral interiors perfect for shoots. View Property

154 Snug House | Wicklow

A modern black barn-style home in the heart of Wicklow, blending rustic charm with sleek interiors. Surrounded by woodland, it’s a versatile, light-filled space ideal for photo and film shoots. View Property

11 Peppercanister House | Dublin

A Georgian townhouse home in the centre of Dublin, thoughtfully restored and cared for. Flooded with natural light and original artworks, this property boasts a wealth of unique & characterful spaces. View Property

77 The Monkstown Home | Dublin

A traditional Dublin home with an eclectic kitchen renovation. View Property

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What Makes a SoScout Location Different?

We don’t just list properties, we curate them. Each SoScout space is:

Adaptable – with dynamic interiors, exterior views and property owner buy-in.

Brimming with visual character and creative potential.

Scouted for production: we understand the needs of film, TV, and content teams – from power access & parking to wifi & WCs and it’s all listed right on the property profile.

Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life

If you’re scouting for a long-term filming location, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch – hello@soscout.com – and let’s unlock the doors to the perfect space for your next big project.

August 12, 2025
Long-Term Filming Locations That Make a Lasting Impression

Unlocking the doors to unique, production-ready spaces for ambitious creative projects.

GROWING LOCATION DEMAND – FROM LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTIONS

Ireland is a globally renowned film location – productions draw on our highly skilled crew base, stunning natural landscapes and historic architecture, as well as the generous tax incentives to film makers coming in from abroad.

Homegrown productions are also growing more ambitious, just recently, RTÉ announced an ‘unprecedented’ year ahead for Irish drama – “Nine major RTÉ dramas will be shot in 2025, all featuring emerging and established Irish acting talent with filming taking place across Ireland’s city streets and coastal towns, showcasing the range and reach of Irish storytelling and featuring the beauty of our native landscapes. 🔗

The demand for reliable, flexible long-term filming locations is growing – whether it’s a rambling country estate, modern family home or large office spaces – we’ve got them. At SoScout we work with creators and crews to facilitate creative freedom while offering logistical ease.

Each of our property’s profiles specify their parking and access information to make shortlisting locations as easy as possible, as well as giving you a feel for the property itself.

Our platform unlocks new opportunities and location possibilities.

Want to be the first to hear about our new locations? Sign up to get The Call Sheet.

The Call Sheet is our regular deep dive into the world of SoScout. In each issue we’ll take you on a fresh Recce to one of our newest properties, Showcase a collaboration from our Seekers and bring you fresh perspectives and expert insights from within the industry in the Journal.

Sign up so that you can be the first to look around our new locations, get inspired by what other seekers are doing and get thoughtful and thought-provoking articles straight to your inbox.

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EXPLORE OUR LONG-TERM LOCATION SHOWCASE

Here are just a few standout spaces in our directory, ideal for multi-day and extended productions. Each location comes pre-vetted, shoot-ready, and backed by SoScout’s hands-on support.

66 Lough Crew Estate, Co. Meath

A stunning 17th century property sitting on landscaped grounds, spanning over 200 acres, inclusive of a lake, neolithic cairns and Saint Oliver Plunkett’s church. View Property

28 The Georgian Estate, Co. Wicklow

A classic walled Georgian Estate set on 150 acres of private land, thoughtfully designed contemporary interiors encompassing the original features of the property. The location is secluded and private, with no pylons, making it perfect for period filming. It can accommodate large productions and has on-site parking for large vehicles. View Property

19 The Country Estate, Co. Armagh

A stunning Georgian gentleman’s residence, built c.1815, retaining an abundance of original features, situated in extensive private grounds with lakeside views and outbuildings. View Property

59 Kilfenora House, Co. Clare

A characterful 1930’s home that sits adjacent to the spectacular Burren region in County Clare. Lovingly restored with it’s original features intact, coupled with a modern charred timber clad extension. View Property

113 The Roundstone Townhouses, Co. Galway

This unique location is a collection of five interconnected townhouses. Originally a pub and a 13-bedroom B&B, the buildings have been meticulously restored and transformed into design-led residences. From the front, it appears as a terrace of three houses, but through the third door lies a hidden garden and communal space with stunning water and mountain views. The design reflects Connemara’s landscape, using natural wood, stone, and a palette inspired by the surroundings. Available individually or combined with accommodation for overnight stays if needed. View Property

67 Crumlin Park House, Co. Galway

Crumlin Park House was built in 1844 by Peter Blake and is one of a number of seats of influence of the famous Galway Tribes. It passed in turn to Cecil Henry who used the property as a gentleman’s residence, country retreat and working farm. In recent times a loving restoration has been undertaken. View Property

88 Manor Estate, Co. Tipperary

A period manor house on an estate with a farm, out buildings, workers sheds, stables, fernery, gardens, fields, a lake and surrounded by incredible views of the surrounding hills. View Property

61 Ballydonegan Bay, Co. Cork

A coastal landscape location with incredible sea views and a range of outbuildings. View Property

80 The Old Famine Hospital, Co. Kerry

A derelict building on stunning grounds that was originally built for use as a Famine Hospital. View Property

84 The Ceramics Factory, Co. Limerick

Irish Dresden porcelain factory set up in Dromcolliher, Co. Limerick in the 1960s. Comprises three large factory halls with working kilns, packing area, storerooms and office & showroom. View Property

79 The Devonshire Estate, Co. Cork

A stunning Georgian estate situated at the gateway to West Cork. Boasting expansive grounds and a good variety of interior spaces and the option for on-site accommodation. View Property

95 Clonalis House, Co. Roscommon

A historic Irish country house, built in 1617, set in stunning, rural surrounds. View Property

145 The Meeting House, Dublin 1

A prestigious historic building in central Dublin, originally built in the late 1860s as a Quaker educational institute. The building’s restoration highlights original 19th-century materials, preserving Dublin’s architectural heritage while adapting it for modern use. View Property

144 The Hat House, Dublin 1

A bright Victorian office building that combines classic architectural features with modern features – a blank canvas in the heart of the city for shoot, events & filming. View Property

103 Dolphin Beach Lodge & Home, Co. Galway

Two stunning beachfront homes, available individually or combined with potential overnight crew accommodation available. This is a unique location with private beach access and uninterrupted views over the Atlantic Ocean. View Property

105 The Heritage Estate, Co. Waterford

The Heritage Estate is nestled in the heart of Annestown village, on the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark. Mainly built in the 1800s the house has breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and across the county of Waterford. The main house offers 750sqm of space and there’s 10 acres of lawns and woodland with views and access down to the beach. The courtyards, stables and function areas are all renovated and include an old barn which has been remodelled to become the fabulous “Nellie’s Bar”. View Property

112 Barnahown Farmhouse, Co. Cork

Beautifully renovated and restored mid-1800s farmhouse featuring original lime render, pointed stone walls, and tasteful, understated decor. A new studio apartment with a striking 5-meter mono-pitch ceiling adjoins the rear of the property. This location is available for booking as individual spaces or can be combined with overnight accommodation options. View Property

122 The Cork Castle, Co. Cork

A medieval castle and Georgian Mansion on 110 acres bordered by a meandering river and lake. The Georgian mansion is in two parts; the main house, built in 1742, with 8 bedrooms all en-suite, a reception room, games room, library, professional kitchen and the early 20th century ballroom. View Property

127 The Clifftop House, Co. Waterford

This clifftop home features light, neutral interiors with a clean Scandinavian style. Large windows fill the space with natural light and showcase stunning ocean views. View Property

132 The Arcadian Gardens, Co. Meath

Created between 1740 and 1780, this is Europe’s only near-complete surviving Ferme Ornée – an ornamental farm blending working agriculture with landscaped beauty. Inspired by the Romantic Movement, it features tree-lined avenues, lakes, follies, and decorative buildings, offering a rare glimpse into 18th-century pastoral idealism and early landscape design. View Property

147 Green Hollow House, Co. Wexford

This grand country home in Wexford sits quietly in the green countryside, with traditional cottage interiors that bring warmth and comfort to its spacious, timeless setting. On-site parking. Suitable for Large Productions. View Property

What Makes a SoScout Location Different?

We don’t just list properties, we curate them. Each SoScout space is:

Adaptable – with dynamic interiors, exterior views and property owner buy-in.

Brimming with visual character and creative potential.

Scouted for production: we understand the needs of film, TV, and content teams – from power access & parking to wifi & WCs and it’s all listed right on the property profile.

Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life

If you’re scouting for a long-term filming location, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch – hello@soscout.com – and let’s unlock the doors to the perfect space for your next big project.

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August 8, 2025