The Gloss Interiors

ALN I C IO E SP DIT E

WHAT’S NEW IN DECORATION / AUTUMN FABRICS / POWER OF PINK / ARCHITECTURE NEWS

AUTUMN 2015

DESIGN DIVERSITY ERA-MIXING WORKS TO YOUR TASTE? French, Italian or English style

KITCHEN MAKE-OVERS Where to start

BIGGEST EVER ISSUE

THE

INTERIORS INDEX HOT TO TROT < #SHELFIE Eye candy for the shelf-absorbed: carefully styled snaps on Instagram

IN THIS ISSUE If you have felt of late that interior design ... whisper it: in this country ... was looking a bit samey, the houses in this issue – all Irish – will quickly change

CELEBRITY BATHROOM ENVY > We’re coveting glass tiles by Ann Sacks in Cameron Diaz’s Manhattan apartment

your mind. Three very different homes have been given thoroughly personal treatments, as far from the hackneyed “scheme” as possible. Each looks original and very importantly, liveable in. So what’s new? Collaboration of the best sort, where a home owner executes a full download of what he or she expects in a home, after which the designer carries out a master plan down to the last detail.

Or in the case of a designers’ own home, allowing their own flair free rein. After

Rust patchwork jacquard cushion, ¤40, at Marks & Spencer.

Navy Willoughby velvet sofa, ¤3,562; www. anthropologie.com.

VELVET SOFAS Add a touch of glamour to a room

Vinyl Moroccan tile mats, www.grahamandgreen.co.uk.

Brass accent table, ¤149.95, at Meadows & Byrne.

years of received wisdom and decorate-by-numbers, interior design is once again about how we like to live, informed by fashion, but not in thrall to it.

BREAK OUT THE BROCADE > Rich colours and luxurious fabrics are in for AW15

< MOROCCAN MOOD Embrace the look with tiles and brass accessories

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THE LOWDOWN New fabrics, autumn upgrades, shops to visit

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HEAVENLY MATCH

The union of pink and pattern

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WINDOW DRESSINGS > Full-height, solid wood shutters are fast becoming the number one alternative to louvred types

A QUESTION OF TASTE SLOWING TO A WALK < TERRIBLE TAXIDERMY Shopping for objets? If it has glass eyes, look away now KEEP CALM ...

Behind a frame or on a mug, we’ve had enough of this ubiquitous phrase

With her light touch, a sophisticated Scandinavian has recharged a Dublin home

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WHAT’S NEW IN KITCHENS NOW A new kitchen? Here’s what you need to know

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IN A GOOD MOOD A young designer has injected glamour into this family house

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MINNIE’S NEXT MOVE Interior designer Miriam Peters launches a new interior design course

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STYLE PASSPORT Steal the decorating styles of London, New York, Paris and Milan

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ARCHITECTURE NEWS The practices making waves

ALL THINGS “CURATED” Voted the most over-used phrase; now back where it belongs ... in a museum

PUBLISHER JAN E M C D O N N ELL

ART DIRECTOR LAURA KEN NY

ED ITOR S A R A H M C D O N N ELL

DESIGNER FAYE K EEGAN

STY LE EDITOR A I S L I N N C OFFEY

ADVERTISING SALE S DIRECTOR

TRAC Y ORMIS T O N

ON THE COVER: Navy gloss panelling is a dramatic backdrop for a mix of teal, navy and blue furnishings in a Dublin family home reimagined

by Kingston Lafferty Design. The trumpet ceiling light is by Occa Home and the brass library light is from Mullan Lighting. For details, see page 44.

Photographed by Barbara Corsico.

THE GLOSS interiors is published by GLOSS PUBLICATIONS Ltd, The Courtyard, 40 Main Street, Blackrock, Co Dublin, 01 275 5130; www.thegloss.ie. Printed by Boylans. Copyright 2015 Gloss Publications Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. This magazine can be recycled either in your Green Bin kerbside collection or at a local recycling point.

“If you Invest In Beauty, It wIll remaIn wIth you all of the days of your lIfe” - Frank LLoyd Wright

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THE LOWDOWN

WHAT’S TRENDING FOR

AUTUMN? DELPOZO AW15

Evenings drawing in? There is an upside!

A change of season is an excellent excuse for an interior upgrade

Theo velvet in charcoal F4200/14, Colefax and Fowler, d109 a metre, at Brian S Nolan, 102 Georges Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

Velvet cushions, d47.50 each, at Marks & Spencer.

TREND ALERT: VELVET Timeless velvet adds depth and warmth to any room. Think furnishings, fashion, and accessories – we can’t help being seduced by the luxe fabric. Jewel colours – peridot, ruby, sapphire – as well as soft neutrals, always look smartest.

COFFEE BREAK Because some of us can’t even leave the house without caffeine: 1.Alluminium Pulcina coffee maker, Michele De Lucci for Alessi, from d52, at Brown Thomas. 2. Gold cafétière, Linea, d35, at House Of Fraser. 3. Copper Chambord coffee maker, d34.90; www.bodum.com.

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PICK ME UP Prolong that summery feeling. Joeanna Caffrey Flowers has created a splash at Avoca, Rathcoole with its chic miniature posy emporium. Caffrey specialises in bespoke bouquets, dressed plants, candles and homewares. Guaranteed to lift the spirits. 01 458 7677; www.joeannacaffrey.ie.

DESPATCHED West Elm, the New York-based furniture and accessory brand known for great affordable mid-century inspired furniture, has opened on the Tottenham Court Road in London. It’s well worth a visit. Shipping to Ireland is available at www.westelm.com.

Furniture heaven.

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THE LOWDOWN GILDED TREASURES

CARPET ENVY RugArt has moved from Clonskeagh to Dublin’s interiors hub across from the Beacon South Quarter in Sandyford. Check out their Rug Addict collection for dreamy, colourful prints.

Rug Art, 1c Birch Avenue, Stillorgan Industrial Park, Dublin 18.

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From desk accessories to mirrors to tables, be seduced by autumn’s fine-line metallics. 1. Madison mirror, d255, at Next. 2. Brass desktop accessories, from d80 each; www.larabohinc.com. 3. Marble and copper coffee table, d250; www.aprilandthebear.com.

SWEET DREAMS Leigh Tucker’s contemporary take on children’s bedding features in her latest Willow collection fr Dunnes Stores, which Tucker decribes as “colourful and fun and not too classic”. Look out for quirky cushions and playful designs in 100 per cent cotton percale. Confetti duvet and pillow set, d45, at Dunnes Stores.

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SUGAR COATING We love the details in the No 5 wood-framed upholstered series by Kalon, from the sugary-pink buttoned cushions to the brass hardware. www.kalonstudios.com.

DISTINCTLY NORDIC Architectural historian Louis Weyhe and business partner Klaus Kristian Sorensen’s new interior store Nordic Makers showcases new Nordic furniture and design in the heart of Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

There are products both by established designers and by designers still in the infancy of their careers.

We spotted these oak Frisbee tables, designed by Herman Cph (a young husband-and-wife designer duo from Copenhagen) from d359, as well as this Dahlia rug, right, designed by Danish design team Claydies, d510. Well worth a visit. Nordic Makers, The Lighthouse, George’s Street Lower, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, www.nordicmakers.com.

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ON THE SCENT Max Benjamin’s new coffee candle collection, featuring five candles, each with a coffee base note and top and middle notes from a range of other spices like amber, patchouli, pink pepper and cardamom, will make the perfect autumn hostess gift. At Arnotts and gift shops nationwide, d15 each.

THE LOWDOWN

ANATOMY OF A COLLECTION: HABITAT’S A/W 2015 WHO? If you’re a bit of an urban nomad at heart, picking up décor items that reflect a range of trends and cultures, you’ll love Habitat’s autumn/winter collection.

It comprises ten trends showcasing tribal influences, a nod to 1980s pop culture and the Memphis Movement, seamless Scandi design, mid-century Americana as well as so-called Marshmallow curves and luxe craft pieces.

GEOMETRY CLASS RETAIL’S PERFECT STORM Filmmaker, now tastemaker, Lupe Garcia Mosqueda’s new Buenos Aires-based boutique is causing a stir. Food, fragrances, blooms and books (Mosqueda’s mother runs Ampersand, the publishing house, on the second floor) come together under one sleek two-storey roof, aka Casa Cavia. Inspired by cafés of the 1920s and 1930s, the grey interior palette with shots of moss green, marble, brass and velvet throughout, is a sight to behold. Each room has a luxurious aesthetic with no shortage of style. www.casacavia.com

NATURAL WONDERS Helen James imbues natural materials and forms with a sleek glamour.

Marble and brass side tables, from d60; black Hudson stoneware platter, d30; both Considered by Helen James at Dunnes Stores.

The bag that’s garnered the most attention in 2015? Irish designer Jonathan Anderson’s clever and covetable Puzzle bag (for Loewe).

It’s so well-designed, with volume created though precise cutting which determines how it folds. Brightly coloured and exceedingly handsome, it is the essence of modern design. www.loewe.com

HOW? Using the redux method, Habitat introduces each trend via a handful of basic pieces. For instance, if you like the Tribal theme, you will pair the new Nateo lacquered bookcase with its sibling coffee table and coordinating cushion. Whatever look you like, remember to work the classic rule of three – from an interior design point of view this achieves more impact.

KEY PIECES: The Tisno tan leather armchair by Laure Grezard is inspired by late 1950s American design with echoes of Mad Men. Meanwhile, Astrid is a new lighting concept reminiscent of DNA molecules – think spherical light bulbs at the end of black or white tubes. It looks high end but costs a song. Then there’s the Luza monochrome oven-to-tableware, which coordinates well with the Zea tabletop collection. Other designer collaborations include a sleek, sculptural Hawkins armchair by Matthew Long that mixes chrome, grey velvet and classic wool, and Martha Coates’ Dolomite yellow and grey geometric rug. Echoes of Tom Dixon are found in the Hallie Copper lamp.

THE BOTTOM LINE: It’s a modern mash-up of edgy design made accessible to everyone. Statement sofas, conceptual lighting, bright primary colours and geometric shapes are the emerging trends. The Heath folding dining table that doubles as a desk or console is one storage solution for small spaces that is hard to beat.

Whether you want to splurge or spend wisely there are many investment pieces here.

WHERE? Habitat is available now at www.argos.ie.

PENNY MC CORMICK

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THE LOWDOWN Thicket (AF-590) matte emulsion,

by Benjamin Moore, £17stg for 0.94l.

WEAVING A PROPER SUCCESS STORY It’s always thrilling to witness the success of an Irish company abroad. Walking into Galeries Lafayette in Paris and seeing a display of Irish bedlinen and wool throws, is a heartening, not to mention unusual experience. But there it is, gorgeous stuff produced by Foxford Woollen Mills in Co Mayo, designed by Helen McAlinden – 320-thread count sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers in smart ticking stripes, solids and toile de Jouy and, beloved of the French, colourwashed linen sheets in Sea Blue, Silver and White. Blankets in solid colours of natural, bone and aqua are layered with patterned merino and cashmere throws.

It’s traditional in a modish way with the restrained sophistication and chic of Hermès. For Joe Queenan, the Mayo man who took over the woollen mills in 1989, it’s affirmation that new life has been breathed into a so-called “sunset industry”. Queenan is adamant that creating wealth in manufacturing – “if you weave something you create something” – is solid and sustainable and he’s been proved right, with orders increasing gradually from Mexico, Chile, Peru and Columbia – all emerging economies – as well as Europe and Japan.

“The Japanese love the Irish country house style, layering tweeds and rugs,” he says, and Scandinavian countries, especially Sweden, with its national obsession with “hygge” or cosiness, are ordering up Foxford in ever-increasing batches.

With a goal to increase turnover to 10m in the next few years, the Foxford boss is focused on quality and careful growth, while maintaining the values of a tradional company. Confidence in the product line has also led to the roll-out of a range of top-quality furnishing fabrics, which have just launched, all woven at the mills in Mayo. Upholstery fabric in 100 per cent wool is hardwearing but soft to the touch. Classics in Bone, Oxford, Aqua and Parma Blue and Mid-Century Brights in Peach, Turquoise and Azure, feature simple geometric stripes, glenchecks and herringbones. When my lovely Anna French botanical print fabric needed replacing, I was reluctant to let it go. But a charcoal herringbone tweed (Oxford) made in Ireland by an Irish company with an interesting heritage (and employing 80 people) changed my mind. When someone remarks on it, I proudly announce, “It’s Foxford,” and tell them the story. If you’re on the Wild Atlantic Way this month, stop by the Mills. If you can’t make it west, Arnotts have a Foxford department and also retail the furnishing fabrics, at d55 a metre. By the way, I found a very good upholsterer in Terence Griffin in Dublin 8; 087 985 6766. SMcD www. foxfordwoollenmills.com; 094 925 6104

ORDER ... ORDER! Laundry and storage baskets like these colourful vintage-style space-savers make for a well-organised room, no matter how small. From d5 each, Carolyn Donnelly Eclectic, at Dunnes Stores.

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COLOUR FIX At last, North America’s leading paint company, Benjamin Moore, is now available in Europe. Renowned for the exceptional beauty and quality of its colours, the Aura collection has a vast colour palette – more than 3,500 shades – from the dramatically deep to the perfectly pale. How to order? Parcel Motel will provide you with a virtual address and a convenient pick-up location. www.benjaminmoore.com www.parcelmotel.com.

PERFECT POLISH For exquisite hardwood floors, including Indian rosewood parquet (d189.95 a sq yd), visit Mulveys of Dundrum, Dublin 14. www.mulveys.com.

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3 OF THE BEST Cool barstools: Ideal for the kitchen island and beyond.

1. Oak Form barstool, d230; www.normann-copenhagen.com.

2. Black stained beech Gubi 2D barstool, d470, at Minima.

3. Stained beech Brio barstool, d1,510, at Roche Bobois.

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HanDCrafTED Luxury

Drumleck, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth (Exit 15 of M1, only 45mins from Dublin & Belfast) T: 042 937 2625 E: info@oconnorkitchens.ie Phone to arrange a consultation

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SHOPPING

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ALEXANDER JAMES / THE INTERIOR ARCHIVE

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HEAVENLY MATCH PINK AND PATTERN MARRY WELL

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1. Pink velvet cushion, d11.50, at Next. 2. Cabaret wallpaper, Cole & Son, about d145 a roll, at Kevin Kelly Interiors, Donnybrook, Dublin 4. 3. Gallus dessert plate, Holly Frean, d19, at www.anthropologie. com. 4. Coral ceramic vase, d35.99, at www.zarahome.com.

5. Lady Chatterley’s Lover by DH Lawrence, Roads Publishing, d12.50, at www.makersandbrothers.com. 6. White Blossom tin candle, d19, L’Occitane. 7. Chiffon pink cast iron 24cm casserole, Le Creuset, d235, at www.brownthomas.com. 8. Hugo loveseat, d579, at Marks & Spencer. 9. Pink washed linen bedspread, d149; matching cushion cover, d35.99; both at www.zarahome.com. 10. Arabian rug, Carolyn Donnelly Eclectic, d80, at Dunnes Stores.

11. Lyon wooden chair, Paul Costelloe Living, d150, at Dunnes Stores.

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OPPOSITE: In the drawing room, mid-century rosewood rattan chairs are covered in bright turquoise. On the rosewood table, designed by architect Grete Jalk, Louise Roe’s City Lights and marble tray are from Nordic Elements. The Knots Rug is from Lost Weekend and the ceiling light was found at auction. The gold-painted glass lamp with silk shade is by Design By Us. ABOVE: The gilt mirror above the fireplace was left to Moyna by the previous owners who had, in turn, been given it by the family who lived in the house 50 years’ ago. LEFT: The mid-century rosewood sideboard was acquired at auction in Denmark. A reclaimed herringbone parquet floor unites all the spaces downstairs. BELOW: Helle Moyna, founder of design company Nordic Elements, in her studio.

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fter two years renting in Dublin after their move from London, Danish-born Helle Moyna and her Irish husband began to house-hunt, looking for a special property suited to family living where they could bring up their two young boys. Having just lost out on a house, the estate agent mentioned another, a private sale – would they like to view it? Moyna’s reaction was instant and instinctive. She loved its intact 18th-century heart, the hint of its 16th-century origins and its wide garden. After six months of paperwork, the house was theirs and, together with Extend architects and a conservation expert, she drew up plans for a full renovation including installation of central heating, rewiring, new bathrooms. As a relative newcomer to Dublin, Moyna’s research was impressive: by commencement of work in October 2014, she had a good team of builders and specialist tradesmen lined up to work with the architects. “Having a good team ensured the project was well-planned and executed, and it was done on time.”

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HOUSE STYLE

A QUESTION OF TASTE Helle Moynaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision for her new house was clear from the start: the approach has a particular modern sensibility, underpinned by a Scandinavian ethos and rooted in simplicity and quality PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOREEN KILFEATHER

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“I CREATED MOODBOARDS FOR EACH ROOM, DOWN TO THE TINIEST DETAILS.”

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HOUSE STYLE

OPPOSITE: In the corner of the drawing room, a curved wall hints at the earlier 16th-century origins of the house, its imperfections carefully preserved by Moyna. The chair, once upholstered in pink silk, was given a newly masculine look in black leather, more suited to family living. The light is by Swedish company Rubn, supplied by Nordic Elements.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: In the hall, the original door and window are still in situ. The mirror was a find at auction and Moyna bought the table from a charity shop; the Bentwood coatstand was a gift to Moyna when she moved into her first flat. The wire basket is from Nordic Elements; the Ego Mirror in the cloakroom is by Design By Us, supplied by Nordic Elements; encaustic tiles in the cloakroom were sourced from Best Tiles in Waterford, the brass hook and light are from Nordic Elements.

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HOUSE STYLE Moyna is no stranger to design projects. Founder of Nordic Elements, a studio and online design, product sourcing and retail business, based on Scandinavian design and her love of mid-century furniture and decoration, Moyna relished the opportunity to furnish her new home with the kind of pieces she sources for clients from auction and from designers whose work she admires. She styled the house inside and out, sourcing everything from light fittings and door handles, to radiators, paint colours and carpets, even the gravel at the front of the house.

“I created moodboards for each room, down to the tiniest details. This made everything so much easier

as the various people involved were able to understand my ideas.” Lighting was a challenge; “I am not a big fan of ceiling lights but, with such high ceilings, they had to make an impact.” Moyna’s access to great designers meant she could bring in most of the ceiling lights from Sweden and Denmark, with her own design for the chandelier over the stairs – “it was daunting but it worked out brilliantly” – produced by one of her Swedish suppliers.

A key decision was to work with architect Morwenna Gerrard on the kitchen design. “It was a tricky space, quite small, and with two large windows and two wide doors plus a chimney breast. Morwenna totally understood

OPPOSITE AND LEFT: The kitchen, designed with the help of architect Morwenna Gerrard, is centred around a welded brass-framed island, topped with Carrera marble.

The sleek cupboards were made by Patrick McKenna of Wabi-Sabi. The lights, suspended with leather straps, are by Swedish designers Rubn, supplied by Nordic Elements. ABOVE: The magnetic noticeboards, framed in oak, are available from Nordic Elements. TOP: Hella Moyna designed the impressive chandelier for over the stairs and had it made in Sweden.

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HOUSE STYLE

RIGHT AND OPPOSITE: The family living and dining space overlooks the garden. The table, a wedding gift, is solid oak and was made by a craftsman in Sussex.

The sofas are a Danish design from Swoon Editions as are the pouffes. The table and rug are from HAY and the standard lamp was bought in Denmark.

TOP: Over the dining room mantelpiece, an antique gilt mirror and some modern Swedish glass from Nordic Elements. ABOVE: The pretty desk, an auction buy, was once Moyna’s dressing table. Now, with new handles and a spruce-up, it has become a useful desk.

The chair was acquired at auction. The brass light is

by Rubn, and the painting by Danish artist, Paul Pave.

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MOYNA RELISHED THE OPPORTUNITY TO FURNISH HER NEW HOME WITH THE KIND OF PIECES SHE SOURCES FOR CLIENTS FROM AUCTION AND FROM DESIGNERS WHOSE WORK SHE ADMIRES. my style and came up with the perfect design, brilliantly executed by Patrick McKenna of Wabi-Sabi.” The other significant alteration to the house was to incorporate an en suite bathroom into the master bedroom. “I did not want a box in the room, so came up with a plan where the walls were part solid, part glass screen, allowing light to flow in,” says Moyna.

The Nordic Elements webshop collection is just a small edit of the designers and manufacturers Moyna works

with. Her talent lies in the way she mixes old classics with new classics for clients. “We can advise on everything from a hall light to a full room make-over as well as source and deliver furniture, lighting and accessories.” Moyna’s is a versatile style embracing both the antique and the contemporary, delivered to coherent and pleasing effect. ^ Helle Moyna’s studio is open by appointment by email on info@ nordicelements.ie or by telephone, 083 441 4582. Visit www. nordicelements.ie to view the current collection.

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HOUSE STYLE

OPPOSITE: The master bedroom with en suite, the latter separated by partially glazed walls which allow the light pour in. The brass bedside light and the pendant are both by Rubn. CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM RIGHT: In the family’s wet room, subway tiles from Best Tiles work well with period details like architraves and shutters; smart black mirrors from Debenhams hang over twin basins by Duravit from Waterloo Bathrooms; the bathroom opens to a separate shower room. The hooks and accessories are from Nordic Elements; in the boys’ bedroom, there’s ample space for art, hobbies and play.

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KITCHENS

WHAT’S NEW IN KITCHENS NOW Turn the heart of your home into a stylish and functional space with the latest kitchen trends, writes KATE WATSON-SMYTH

I

t might seem overwhelming to plan the perfect kitchen, but the chances are you’ve already worked out what’s annoying you about your current one, so you might as well use that as a starting point and begin by thinking how you could put those issues to rights.

Sometimes it’s simply a question of changing outdated cupboard doors for more contemporary kitchen cabinets, or more commonly, it’s about not having enough storage. If that’s the case then you need to start by having a really good declutter to work out what rubbish you have been hanging on to for years. Then you can see how much extra space you genuinely need. If you’ve got a friend who likes cooking, it’s a good idea to invite them around to use your kitchen and cast a pair of fresh eyes on your set-up and work stations. They are more likely to notice if the pans are miles away from the hob and the chopping boards are inaccessible – things that you have become so used to they no longer register.

A central island means the cook doesn’t have to turn away from the guests. This one, by Andrew Ryan, has a recessed extractor fan which keeps the space more open and inclusive.

1. ORIENTING THE ROOM Planning is key. Sit down for a meal with your designer so they can see how you use the kitchen and how you move around the space. Take advantage of most good kitchen companies that offer a free planning and visual service which will leave you with a computer-generated image of your future kitchen. Start where you want to sit and eat and work round that. The main work area should face the seating area. One side of your island could be the breakfast bar with storage underneath and the other side could house the hob so you can talk to people as you cook.

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Make yourself at home Create a kitchen where the welcome is warm, cooking is a joy and everyone loves to gather Suffolk kitchen lovingly hand-painted in Charcoal with brass handles and perfectly irregular Elcot tiles.

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KITCHENS

2. THE KEY TRIANGLE And what of the ever-popular kitchen triangle that kitchen fitters are always recommending? Well, it turns out that 50 years ago, efficiency experts tracked the average woman’s steps in the kitchen and found a natural pathway between the fridge, cooker and sink, hence the triangle. The distance between those three items and how easy it is to reach them is still a measure of the perfect kitchen today. It’s a complex equation to work out the optimum measurements and we won’t be typing it out here, but basically the sides of the triangle don’t have to be equal as long as the distances add up to somewhere between 3.6m and 7m. So, if the cooker and fridge are three feet apart, the sink and fridge could be 2.4m apart and the cooker and sink 3m. So there is room for flexibility.

Quite often you will find that you instinctively know how it should be because it feels comfortable. There is one other technical measurement: if you’re having an island there should be at least 1.2m between it and the nearest counter, according to the experts. However, my kitchen has a gap of 1.1m which is perfect for me 1.7m tall to pivot from the sink to the hob without having to take an extra step. You can work out your own measurement by laying two pieces of string parallel to each other on the floor and moving them apart until you can pivot between them without having to take a step. This is the working part of the kitchen; you want everything close at hand. More space on the other side of the island means more space for bar stools and guests to keep you company while you cook.

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Planning the layout is crucial to ensure the room works for both cooking and entertaining, as this Newcastle Design kitchen illustrates.

Industrial concrete cabinets

by Leicht are sealed with matte lacquer for a contemporary look. Available exclusively at McNally.

KITCHENS 3. CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLOUR

Mixed with on-trend grey, exposed and painted timber makes a fresh neutral, as seen at The Design Yard.

USE NATURAL TEXTURES TO INTRODUCE SUBTLE COLOUR AND CREATE A MORE ORGANIC FEEL.

This Heritage style kitchen from O’Connor Kitchens, with its muted colour palette and natural materials, creates a calming space.

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When it comes to colour, despite the current trend for yellow and turquoise, the best suggestion is to keep it neutral. Think black, white, mocha or exposed timber. These shades won’t date and you can make dramatic changes by painting or papering the walls. White is perennially popular and of course a white kitchen doesn’t have to be all white. You can use natural textures to introduce subtle colour and create a more organic feel. If your budget runs to it then marble is wonderful in a white kitchen. The subtle grey pattern adds a little interest and texture. In a narrow kitchen, an all-white colour scheme maximises space and light, whereas in a larger room, an expanse of white walls and windows creates a wonderful feeling of luxury and opulence.

Grey is the fashionable choice at the moment. But the great thing about a kitchen is that you’re not just limited to painting the walls as you are in most other rooms. Here you can do the walls, or the cupboards, or some of the cupboards and some of the walls. And let’s not even get started on the number of shades (yes, yes there are many more than 50 for those of you sniggering at the back).

Kitchen Design & Interio Kitchen Kitchen Design Design && Interior Interior Style Style Event Event Saturday, October Saturday, October 3rd 2015 2015 Saturday, Saturday,October October 3rd 3rd2015 2015 3rd 9am 9am - 1pm 1pm 9am 9am--1pm 1pm Miele Gallery, Miele Gallery, Citywest.

Miele MieleGallery, Gallery, Citywest.

Citywest.Citywest.

Leading interiors experts, Studio 44 Interior Designer Philippa Buckley and Dulux Colour Leading interiors experts, Studio 44 Interior Designer Philippa Buckley and Buckley Dulux Leading Leadinginteriors interiors experts, experts,Studio Studio 4444Interior Interior Designer DesignerPhilippa Philippa Buckley Buckleyand andDulux DuluxColour Colour Philippa Philippa Buckley Colour Specialist Judith Byrne will give inspiring advice on creating the perfectPhilippa kitchen and Philippa is is widely widely Specialist Judith Byrne will give inspiring advice on creating the perfect kitchen and Specialist SpecialistJudith JudithByrne Byrnewill willgive give inspiring inspiringadvice advice ononcreating creating the theperfect perfect kitchen kitchenand and recognised recognised as one one of of dining area, exploring lighting, wall coverings, paint finishes, interior fittings and as performance dining area, exploring lighting, coverings, paint finishes, interior fittings and performance dining diningarea, area,exploring exploring lighting, lighting,wall wallcoverings, coverings, paint paintwall finishes, finishes, interior interiorfittings fittingsand and performance performance Ireland’s Ireland’s leading leading bespoke bespoke appliances to achieve a well-designed, stylish décor. In addition, the Miele team will be on Interior Interior Designers.

Designers. appliances toa awell-designed, achieve astylish well-designed, stylish décor.

In addition, the Miele team will be on appliances appliancestotoachieve achieve well-designed, stylish décor. décor.InInaddition, addition,the theMiele Mieleteam team will willbebeonon hand to provide expert advice on the latest Miele kitchen appliance technology. hand to provide expert advice on the latest Miele kitchen appliance technology. hand handtotoprovide provide expert expertadvice advice ononthe thelatest latest Miele Mielekitchen kitchen appliance appliance technology. technology.

This is must attend event for those about to embark on a renovation and an opportunity for a This is attend must attend event for those aboutand to embark on This Thisis ismust must attendevent event forforthose those about abouttoto embark embark onona arenovation renovation andan anopportunity opportunity forfora a a renovation and an opportunity for a one to one design consultation with Ireland’s bespoke interior design experts. one todesign one design consultation with Ireland’s bespoke interior design experts. one onetotoone one designconsultation consultationwith withIreland’s Ireland’sbespoke bespoke interior interior design designexperts. experts.

Refreshments on arrival followed by brunch after the event.

Refreshments on arrival followed by brunch after the event.

Refreshments Refreshmentsononarrival arrivalfollowed followed bybybrunch brunch after afterthe theevent. event.

To book book ToTo Tobook book Email: events@miele.ie or tel 014610710. Places are strictly limited.

Email: events@miele.ie orPlaces tel 014610710.

Email: Email:events@miele.ie events@miele.ie ororteltel014610710.

014610710.

Places are arestrictly strictlylimited. limited. Places are strictly limited.

Tickets are priced at €50.

Tickets areatat priced at €50.

Tickets Ticketsare arepriced priced €50. €50.

Miele Gallery Miele Gallery Miele MieleGallery Gallery 2024 Bianconi Avenue, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24.

2024 Bianconi Avenue, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24.

2024 2024Bianconi Bianconi Avenue, Avenue,Citywest Citywest Business Business Campus, Campus,Dublin Dublin 24.

24.

Tel 01 4610710 Email: events@miele.ie 01 4610710 Email: events@miele.ie TelTel Tel01014610710 4610710 Email: Email:events@miele.ie events@miele.ie www.miele.ie www.miele.ie www.miele.ie www.miele.ie

Judith JudithByrne Byrne Judith Judith is is a colour a colour specialist specialist with with Dulux Dulux Paints.

Paints.

KITCHENS Glass can be a stunning and contemporary choice for a worktop and makes an interesting change from marble and granite as this show-stopping island from Noel Dempsey proves.

4. FIND A WORKTOP THAT WORKS So you’ve chosen the kitchen cupboards and commissioned the bespoke door handles – time for the worktop. This is where you get to really make a statement but there are pros and cons for all surfaces. Wood is environmentally friendly, warm, natural and the most affordable. But it scorches so you need to mind hot pans and you must be careful round the sink and wet areas.

Granite and marble are expensive and can stain and scratch. Watch out for red wine and lemon juice. But if you are prepared to seal it regularly and keep the toddlers away it is stunning. Both

are also completely classic and won’t go out of fashion. Marble goes particularly well with brass which gives it a modern twist and also warms it up a bit. I could wax lyrical and talk about how there is a desire for longer lasting materials and the end of the throwaway culture.

Or we could just agree that it’s a stunning stone and if you can afford some of it then you should have it. It’s pretty classic looking so it won’t go out of fashion. Glass is durable and will create a seamless look but it’s pricey.

Man-made materials can be used to create both worktop and sink in one seamless piece which is very hygienic, and stainless steel, the staple of all restaurant kitchens, is both tough and stain

resistant but can be too industrial for some tastes.

The really modern solution is to mix up your surfaces according to what they will be used for. Wood is great for the eating area, marble for a stunning centrepiece, Dekton round the sink and granite by the hob as it can withstand the heat. When it comes to colour, neutrals are always popular as they won’t look out of date in six months. If you want to use a really strong colour try painting the cupboards – much easier to change if you tire of it.

THIS IS WHERE YOU GET TO REALLY MAKE A STATEMENT. Dekton ultra-compact surfaces by Cosentino are heat, scratch and stain-resistant, making it the perfect solution for those who love the look of marble or natural stone but are worried about looking after it.

38 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

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Bauknecht with your inner connoisseur. Get the oven that cooks as good as it looks.

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TRY BAUKNECHT FOR YOURSELF. Experience the complete range of Bauknecht home appliances at leading appliance dealers or at The Bauknecht Centre of Excellence.

KITCHENS Clever and practical cabinets, Spend time thinking like these from Design House about storage and Concepts, can create up to 30 shelving: well-designed per cent more storage space. cupboards, like these from Design House, can translate into 30 per cent more space.

5. SMART STORAGE SOLUTIONS The big issue for any kitchen is storage. Open-plan shelving is very fashionable but your pots and pans will get dusty. Deep drawers are also popular as you can see everything at a glance rather than losing the turmeric at the back of a high cupboard. You’ll need to leave enough space for the recycling boxes as well. These days one box by the back door simply isn’t enough and you don’t want it all on display. In short: build in as much storage as you can possibly fit. Tracking systems that can be added to the backs of doors and inside cupboards can create up to 30 per cent more storage space. It doesn’t matter how often I look at fashionable high gloss cabinets, there is still something immensely appealing about wooden ones. And, unless you live in a totally square box, they will need to be bespoke as odd sizes are always required.

Cutting-edge appliances from Sub-Zero and Wolf add a luxurious and professional finish.

40 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

Mod e rn and Hand Painted Bespok e K itche ns

De sig ns Insp ire d By You C o u n ty Wic klow +353(0)404 64 5 4 8 www. n oeldemps ey. c om

KITCHENS Glossy surfaces will bounce the light around and make kitchens feel bigger, as seen in this room

by Cash & Carry Kitchens. Consider using some strong colour to really anchor the space.

6. FINISHING WITH A FLOURISH It goes without saying that you should always buy the best you can afford.

Make sure that the touch points – taps and handles – are good quality.

Then, if there is anything left in the budget, add the gadget that you have always wanted. In my case it was boiling water tap to replace the kettle.

For you it might be a steam oven, or a television on the fridge door. What about a slimline wine fridge to fit into that awkward space or an extractor hood that looks like a chandelier? If you can’t stretch to any of those then paint the inside of your cupboards in a fabulous, unexpected colour that will make your heart sing every time you open the door. ^

The Nuage kitchen hood

by Elica, painted the same colour as your wall, virtually disappears. Available at KAL.

COOK UP A NEW-LOOK KITCHEN: DOS AND DON’TS ◆ Do invest in appliances. Steam ovens are particularly popular at the moment and do everything from vegetables to sponge cakes. Then, if there’s enough left over for a wow factor, go for the extras. ◆ Don’t buy into highly decorative features as they will just collect grease and grime and you are likely to go off them quickly. ◆ Do consider granite or marble worktops.

They add to the feel of quality of a kitchen and never go out of fashion. ◆ Don’t rule out high-end touches such as soft-close drawers, touch-open cupboards and LED lighting. They’re not as expensive as you might assume and all those details will add to the sense of luxury. ◆ Do your research on storage. You will always need more than you think and you need to leave space for new things. There

Built-in steam oven by Miele.

are so many options now, from pull out larders and spice drawers to tall cupboards for the ironing board.

Kate Watson-Smyth is an interiors journalist at The Financial Times and others.

She runs a personal interior design service at www.madaboutyourhouse.com, where she also writes a critically acclaimed blog.

42 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

AD D R ESS B O O K ANDREW RYAN Clonattin Lower, Gorey, Co Wexford 053 942 1585 www.andrewryan.ie CASH & CARRY KITCHENS Balally Shopping Centre, Blackthorn Drive, Sandyford Dublin 16 01 294 0866 www.cashandcarrykitchens.ie COSENTINO Unit 10, Bartley Point, Osborn Way, Hook, Hampshire 01256 761229 info.uk@cosentino.com DESIGN HOUSE 8 Railway Road, Dalkey, Co Dublin 01 235 2222 www.designhousedublin.com DESIGN YARD 11-15 Erne Street Upper, Dublin 2 01 676 9511 www.thedesignyard.com KAL (BAUKNECHT, ELICA AND NORDMENDE) 4078 Kingswood Road, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24 01 413 6416 www.kal.ie

MC NALLY M1 Business Park, Courtlough, Balbriggan, Co Dublin 01 660 4856 www.mcnallyliving.ie MIELE 2024 Bianconi Avenue, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24 01 461 0710 www.miele.ie NEPTUNE Neptune, Blagrove, Swindon, Wiltshire SN5 8YG 01793 427484 www.neptune.com NEWCASTLE KITCHENS Newcastle Design, Rathnew, Co Wicklow 0404 65000 www.newcastledesign.ie NOEL DEMPSEY Rathnew, Co Wicklow 0404 64548 www.noeldempsey.com O’CONNOR KITCHENS Drumleck, Castlebellingham, Co Louth 042 937 2625 www.oconnorkitchens.ie SUB ZERO 251 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, 0044 845 250 0010 www.subzero-wolf.co.uk

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IN A GOOD MOOD

Factoring in grown-up escape was a key consideration when remodelling this family home. The ingredients?

A moody and glamorous library, a secret cocktail bar, a sophisticated master suite â&#x20AC;Ś and a designer who delivered PHOTOGRAPHY BY BARBARA CORSICO

44 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

DESIGN With a feel similar to that of a private members’ club, the library is the grown-up space in the house. The navy gloss panelling, carried through to the hall and stairs, is a dramatic backdrop for a mix of teal, navy and blue furnishings including the velvet sofa from Made.com and the custom-made “The Arbre” coffee table, designed

by Kingston Lafferty Design.

The trumpet ceiling light is

by Occa Home and the brass library light is from Mullan Lighting. RIGHT: Kingston Lafferty Design created the pattern for the encaustic tiles in the hall and re-upholstered the hall chair in Allegra fabric

by Kai in Peacock.

F

or designer Róisín Lafferty, design is all about impact and how surroundings affect mood. It’s no surprise then that her latest project, this complete reconfiguration of a family house in Ballsbridge, has such a precise effect on mood. The family living space is airy and open, comfortable and light, the master bedroom serene and opulent, the kitchen a contrast of industrial and glamour. Each room evokes a distinct feeling, yet the spaces flow beautifully and the transitions are subtle.

Lafferty’s design company, Kingston Lafferty Design, has carved a name for itself not just here but internationally,

undertaking residential, retail and commercial projects in Geneva, Paris and London. It is the fusion of different design specialities – interior architecture, interior design and furniture design – that makes Kingston Lafferty’s work so unique.

When Lafferty’s clients acquired the semi-detached 1950s house and separate side flat, they wanted a design that would integrate the two into a functional family home that would adapt to their children’s evolving needs.

They also specified a well-designed house with a wow factor. “They were so receptive to our ideas, and excited enough to be brave about the interiors – this made the project so enjoyable to work on,” says Lafferty.

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 45

DESIGN

The kitchen is divided from the dining and living area by a decorative wall, the limed oak running from the floor upwards in a ribboning effect, drawing the eye up to the trio of stunning blown glass Lasvit lights from the Conran Shop. Kingston Lafferty Design designed the table, upcycling buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; trestles, spraying them a pale blue Dulux shade and adding a heavy solid-ash top. The painting is by Daniel Henson. The chairs are a mix: the stool and black chair are from Dust.ie and the others from CA Design. To the right of the picture, a panelled mirror wall is an opulent touch, a nice play of grandeur against the industrial-style table. The grey sofa in the foreground is from Roche Bobois.

DESIGN In the kitchen a Carrera marble island has a bevelled mirror back which reflects the tiles by Tilestyle, a nice optical illusion that reinforces their impact. Reclaimed bricks, sourced by the designer, are juxtaposed with an antique gilt mirror, crystal light bulbs by Lee Broom and brasserie-style lights from Mullan Lighting. Joinery throughout is by Moore O’Gorman.

The stools are from Cult Furniture.

The larger footprint resulting from the merger of the house and separate flat meant addressing the issue of layout and circulation was a priority. The increased floor area allowed a luxe master suite to be accommodated, complete with dressing room. Walls were knocked though, doorways widened and a boot room was fashioned between the kitchen and the new playroom. Once the layout was perfected, there were other challenges: “There were some tricky spaces – the landings and hall, for instance, had little natural light – so we used mirror to reflect what light there was.” Next step was creating brilliant storage: “Rather than storage being an afterthought, we incorporated it into the overall structure from the beginning.”

Having perfected the layout, defined the spaces with unusual materials and interesting finishes, and detailed the joinery, it was time for Lafferty to deploy

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 47

DESIGN Following the clients’ directive that the house have one room with a grown-up feel, Kingston Lafferty Design added a fun – and secret – element to the library. The concealed bar with mirror tiles with a vintage effect is a glamorous touch for cocktails before dinner. The polished brass wall light is by Atelier Areti, the antlers were found at a market in Paris, the magazine holder is from an antique shop and the chair is re-upholstered in fabric called Soft Touch in Smoothie 12 Paloma by Emily Mc Guinness.

ABOVE: The master en suite bathroom is a tight space, so the designers continued the tiles from the floor up the wall in a ribboning effect to highlight the walkway. The tiles are from Fired Earth. On the wall of flat mirror on the left, the designer mounted bespoke mirrored cabinets, creating an intimate yet threedimensional effect. THIS PICTURE: The dramatic and sophisticated guest room, with headboard designed by Kingston Lafferty Design. The purple chair is from Roche Bobois.

48 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

STRAP In the master bedroom, Kingston Lafferty Design wanted a luxurious headboard, enveloping not just the bed but wrapping around the two pretty side tables from Graham & Green. Their choice of sophisticated grey velvet, individual brass pendant lights and a Jonathan Adler ceiling light add to the cocooning effect. The bedlinen, throws and cushions are from House of Fraser.

DESIGNER’S EYE Interior designer RÓISÍN LAFFERTY, far left, is founder and principal of Kingston Lafferty Design.

She shares three trade secrets:

MIRROR AND LIGHTS “The garden has lovely mature trees so we included lots of full-height glass to frame this, then used mirror to bounce the light around. Also, using impactful ceiling lights is both brave and practical: there’s nothing worse than underscale light fittings, they look mean and create shadow.”

Róisín Lafferty

her unique interior design approach. “We love to mix different styles and different eras, character and contemporary. We spend a lot of time sourcing, as we like every project to be unique.” As well as using well-known suppliers, Kingston Lafferty source salvaged materials, and also design bespoke pieces of furniture. “The coffee table in the library was originally an outdoor tree-surround that we upgraded; the kitchen table is made from builders’ trestles. Creating these pieces is fun and adds interest to the house.” ^ Kingstonlaffertydesign.com; 01 551 4836

PLAYING WITH SCALE “We deliberately framed the views within the house: the panelled frame of the library doorway to the living space highlights the dramatic change of styles. We created a reading nook with luxurious velvet banquette seating to contrast with the large modular sofa from Roche Bobois. The sculpture draws the eye, it’s playful but interesting.”

EXPERIMENT WITH PAINT ”Working to get exactly the right shade for a room is worth the effort. Even subtle differences in tone matter.

We used Dulux and experimented with finishes. The navy gloss paint in the library had a dramatic effect.”

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 49

XXXXXXXX In Peters’ kitchen on the first floor of the 18th-century terraced villa, with original Chalon cupboards and AGA, daughter Christina cartwheels across the floorboards.

DOREEN KILFEATHER

MINNIE’S NEXT MOVE When interior designer Miriam Peters (aka Minnie Peters) returned to Ireland last year after three years living in France, her experience of life in a slower lane made her resolve to work to live, not live to work ...

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOREEN KILFEATHER AND LOIS CRIGHTON

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 27

LIVING

S

ince Miriam Peters began her interior design business 21 years ago, her experience of working on residential projects both here and abroad and her love of design has helped her arrive at a point in her professional life where she wants to share her knowledge – online.

We talked about what’s next for her and why...

AS

A

SUCCESSFUL

DESIGNER

WITH

LOTS

OF

PROJECTS ON THE GO, WHY BRANCH OUT? After being

away for three years, I stood back and looked at the bigger picture: I can’t take on every project I am offered as I never like to over-commit, but I can make what I do accessible to a wider audience. Through our Minnie Peters social media pages on Pinterest and Instagram I have learned that people throughout the world have a strong passion for European design and antiques. I am constantly being contacted with queries about how to merge different European styles in a domestic setting – this has led me to believe there is a niche in the market to share my expertise and experience through online interior design courses. DID LIVING ABROAD CHANGE THINGS? Moving to France was the best decision for us as a family – it certainly opened my eyes that no matter where people live in the world everyone wants to create a cosy home, a refuge where they can bolt the door and exhale.

The world is a small place and the internet makes it even

LOIS CRIGHTON

The dining room with French table and Belgian chairs from Minnie Peters. Subtle colour was introduced with clay-coloured cushions and curtains in taupe. Peters’ uses antique pedestals as tables for lamps.

RIGHT: The kitchen table, though tiny, is perfectly practical and is flanked by comfortable armchairs.

52 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

LIVING

DOREEN KILFEATHER

LOIS CRIGHTON

LOIS CRIGHTON

LOIS CRIGHTON

DOREEN KILFEATHER

DOREEN KILFEATHER

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: The cosy sitting room with oversized armchair and sofa, covered in a putty linen, has a large coffee table and an antique bergère. Painting beween windows by Gerard McGourty; Peters’ son Patrick at the blackboard in the kitchen; a view from the kitchen through to the sitting room, with the stairs leading to the bedrooms below. The Chalon cabinet has been cleverly converted to house the fridge and storage; Christina in the dining area.

smaller, allowing me reach out to a wider audience.

INSPIRATION? Travelling in Europe; visiting antique markets for inspiration. I am strongly influenced by French, Swedish and Belgian craftsmanship; their attention to detail and specialist finishes. YOU DON’T TIRE OF GIVING DESIGN ADVICE? I have always been happy to advise clients, friends and family and now I’m engaging with people from all over the globe. I can see a common thread in their questions which will form the foundations of my first online course in 2016. Having had the retail buzz of my Minnie Peters store in Dun Laoghaire for 14 years, now online conversations with like-minded people spark ideas. A TWO-WAY THING? I have met so many interesting designers online, but also non-designers with a passion for design. As part of our online courses we will have an open forum to facilitate idea-sharing and networking. WHAT’S THE REAL VALUE OF A BLOG? It’s a behind-the-scenes diary of our projects. The latest is an almost derelict 300-year-old farmhouse that I’m bringing back to life.

Followers can see before and after photos, inspiration from my travels and anything else I think might be of interest. I’m also working on a project in Canada and two other projects for Irish clients abroad – all came via

my blog. SOME ADVICE? Don’t be blindsided by the bricks and mortar, keep something in the budget for finishes, furnishings and accessories to give your home soul. It’s the lack of these things that make a project feel incomplete. TIPS TO STRETCH THE BUDGET? Clever panelling covers a multitude, adds character to a room and certain styles can be inexpensive. STYLE IS ABOUT COMFORT? I want people to enjoy their homes. What makes my clients happy? Being able to entertain easily, cook in a beautiful space while keeping an eye on the kids, a dressing room, a well-ordered pantry, a gorgeous bathroom or a television room everyone can relax in?

THERE’S A BIT OF PSYCHOLOGY INVOLVED?

I want clients to feeel good. I enjoy making a difference and a home filled with character, antique pieces, artwork and the perfect lighting makes a difference. My services have been known not to end at the design and furniture sourcing. I have found housekeepers for clients, and even dogs! HOW DOES HARMONY LOOK TO YOU? A chalky palette of greys, subtle tones of whites and offwhites, natural textures, soft carpets, photographs and art. Proportion. Serenity. INSTANT THERAPY? Leafing through my interiors books on a Sunday afternoon and spending time with my children. ^ www.minniepeters.com

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 53

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DECORATING

THE AVID COLLECTOR: THE GLOSS Magazine’s contributing editor, Polly Devlin collects blue and white china and Staffordshire dog figurines for her English house.

1

TRADITION WITH A TWIST: A master bedroom gets a warm contemporarycolonial makeover by interior designer Paolo Moschino.

STYLE PASSPORT Steal their style! Penny McCormick on how to get the English, American, French and Italian look

ENGLISH IN A NUTSHELL: The Englishman’s home may be his castle but it’s essentially a refuge from the weather – hence the adage ‘home and dry’, and, as with clothing, a chance to layer up. History, a timeless mix of different period styles, eccentric objects, paintings and travel mementoes are all combined in a narrative that somehow works. To every other nationality this is called clutter.

THE ELEMENTS: Focal points throughout the home will invariably be the fireplace (real or faux), the Aga in the kitchen and the bathtub. The English have not yet forsaken the art of “drawing a bath”, though their cousins on the continent have dispensed with roll tops in favour of double showers. Likewise they eschew the British relish of wallpaper (from Colefax & Fowler,

8

7

Osborne & Little or Cole & Son). You will invariably find a Billy bookcase from IKEA lurking somewhere in the English home, though a floor-to-ceiling library either side of the fireplace is mandatory, featuring books mixed with photographs and a collection of some sorts (owls, camels, swans etc). You want to give the impression of a life well-lived. Also a reference to your pet is a must. The dog basket in the kitchen and various leads in the hallway with your Hunter wellies signal an animal-loving household.

You will have hyacinth bulbs maturing in the hot press, scented geraniums in the kitchen and jam pots filled with wildflowers in the guest room.

THE DESIGNERS: Self-taught interior designer and hotelier du jour Kit Kemp’s approach is a mash up of chintz, colour and craft. She pairs hot pinks mixed with orange or yellow with monochrome for

drama, while Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam is very fashion-forward in his approach to colonial chic. On the more reflective side are Ben Pentreath and Abigail Ahern.

2

3

WHAT’S ON YOUR TABLESCAPE: Sweet Caress by William Boyd, a bell jar with Timothy Dunn or Jo Loves candles, pottery bowls by the children, Decorex, Boden and Graham & Greene catalogues, worry beads picked up in Marrakech.

GET THE LOOK: While the London market favours silver and grey sofas with silk carpets, invest in emerald or British Racing green hues (Zaragoza velvet at Designer’s Guild) or Laura Ashley’s rich plum Kingham sofa and mix with the Argyll Tartan chair (at Argos) and assorted pieces inherited from Granny.

Don’t own a Tracey Emin? Try Seletti’s clever neon lights that spell out your favourite colour (www.outthereinteriors. com). Elsewhere in the home, a blue and white collection is found. Juxtapose modern vases from Paul Costelloe (at Dunnes Stores) with vintage Spode. If you feel bolder you’ll like the Oval button stool in Conte velvet pink (at Marks & Spencer).

Curtains can inject theatre into the mix – try Christian Lacroix’s Nouveaux Mondes fabrics (at Designer’s Guild), and don’t be afraid to juxtapose with dark paint colours. Getting the lighting right is key to creating the homely look.

Interiors blogger Kimberley Duran (at Swoonworthy) shows how she turned an ordinary terrace into a stylish des res.

4

1. Indie Wood wallpaper, £350stg, www.timorousbeasties. com. 2. Teal glazed ceramic table lamp, Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam. 3. Neon alphabet words, Seletti, from d165; www.outthereinteriors. com. 4. The Library room at Ham Yard Hotel, designed by Kit Kemp. 5. Blue floral vase, Paul Costelloe Living, d35, at Dunnes Stores. 6. Sweet 5 Caress by William Boyd (Bloomsbury), d17.99, at Eason. 7. Lemongrass, amber and tiare flower candle, £75stg; www.joloves.com. 8.

Giselle linen mix fabric in navy F4230/02 Colefax & Fowler, d124 a metre, at Brian S Nolan, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

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T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 55

DECORATING

1

AMERICAN IN A NUTSHELL: Two schools predominate; the Home Sweet Home versus Home Suite Home. The former is shabby chic in ethos while the latter is a chance to show off your “collaboration” with an interior designer. The primary focus is the hallway – making a grand statement about your style, usually with an artwork, photo wall or console table. The living area is dominated by a salon-style seating arrangement and formal dining area. Like getting to first base in dating, Americans have rules when it comes to design. They love symmetry and sisal flooring, and err on the side of caution when it comes to mismatched details. Preppy at heart, clean lines are approved.

THE ELEMENTS: Ideally you will have a Warren Platner for Knoll dining table and chairs (new or vintage from 1stdibs.com) a starburst mirror and a feature wall. To show you’re hip you will combine a floral print with a stripe and include some ikat (a must) with a dash of zebra print on the floor. Failing that, any sort of pattern – a knot, chevron or zigzag is essential, as is your LL Bean monogrammed tote in the closet. These are all codes to the inhabitant’s value system – the American home being a vignette of their political leanings.

THE INVINCIBLE INVESTMENT: Lauren Gurvich travels the world sourcing 20th-century classics that make great investment pieces.

THE DESIGNERS: Amy Lau, Laura Day and Bilhuber & Associates are some of the major players in New York; (the latter did Anna Wintour’s home). Other heavyweights include Kelly Wearstler and Betsy Burnham; both favour bright, bold, happy interiors while Massucco Warner Miller Design are gaining traction on the west coast. Check out Lauren Gurvich’s home and website for atmospheric art.

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WHAT’S ON YOUR TABLESCAPE: Amanda Brooks’ Always Pack a Party Dress: And Other Lessons Learned from a (Half ) life in Fashion. Pussy willow boughs in autumn; cherry blossom in springtime, mimosa for late summer; candle by Voluspa.

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GET THE LOOK: Bloggers such as Chiara Ferragni’s (The Blonde Salad) and Aimee Song’s (Song of Style) LA homes are good for style stealing. Teal is a great colour to transition into autumn and works well with gold accents such as the Aerial Copper Metal Ceiling lamp (at Habitat) or FL/Y lamp (at Kartell). Try the Caitlin Sofa Bed in Teal or the Tiffany box-blue large Somerton Sofa (at Argos). Add the Stockholm rug (at IKEA) and the Constellation or Lovell mirrors (at Laura Ashley). Drinks carts spell glamour: try the Carraway drinks cabinet (at Marks & Spencer); their Bradshaw desk is very sleek too. A framed Tracey Jenkins “For Like Ever” poster (www.domino.com) is also a classic fashionista accessory. In the bedroom, Carolyn Donnelly’s Eclectic ruched headboard in grey (at Dunnes Stores) works well with a piece from the Verona Mirrored bedroom furniture range (at Argos). Add a touch of yellow like the Pop Yellow Bamboo Table Lamp (at Habitat) and a Madame World of Emilio Pucci Edition chair by Philippe Starck (at Kartell).

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1. Limitless linen fabric in Marine, Jonathan Adler for Kravet, www.kravet.com. 2. Grey ruched velvet headboard, Carolyn 4 Donnelly Eclectic, from d350, at Dunnes Stores. 3. Carraway drinks cabinet, ¤799, at Marks & Spencer. 4. Always Pack A Party Dress by Amanda Brooks (Blue Rider), d29.50 at Eason.

5. Triple-wick candle, £25stg; www.voluspa.co.uk. 6. Madame World Of Emilio Pucci chair, Phillipe Starck; www.kartell.com.

7. Four Corners cow hide, from $800; www.ralphlaurenhome. com. 8. Ariel pendant light, Habitat, d74.99; www.argos.ie.

9. Blogger Chiara Ferragni. 10. Lauren Gurvich’s London bedroom. 11. Tory Burch’s Hampton retreat features sisal flooring.

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56 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

Design Icon no. 1 How a tennis ball became a chair

The Imola chair

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DECORATING 1. Bracieux cotton fabric in Bleu Camaieu, www.pierrefrey.com.

2. Fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier’s fashion-meets-furniture collaboration with Roche Bobois.

3. Boukhara plate, d46; www.tsetse.com. 4. Irish Linen HT10 matt emulsion, d46 for 2.5l, at Helen Turkington, Dublin 6. 5. Figuier indoor/ outdoor candle, Diptyque, d210, at Brown Thomas. 6. La Perouse wallpaper, d279 a metre; www. pierrefrey.com. 7. Red Bibendum leather chair, Eileen Gray, d3,045; www.aram.co.uk. 8. Sapporo desk in bamboo, Content by Conran, d309, at Marks & Spencer. 9. Silver Nigella velvet bolster cushion, d60, at Laura Ashley. 10. Try Zara Home for a selection of decorative ashtrays. Mini Transfer ashtray, d3.99; www.zara. com. 11. Bellegarde cotton tile in blue, Manuel Canovas, d124 a metre, at Kevin Kelly Interiors, Dublin 4.

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Blogger Hayleigh Walsworth’s pretty Parisian bedroom.

FRENCH IN A NUTSHELL: Nonchalance in dress is echoed in the non matchy-matchy ethos of the French home.

But there’s whimsy too – epitomised in the work of Parisienne design duo Tsé & Tsé Associées, Catherine Levy and Sigolene Prebois. For the undone French interior, you need a few classic pieces to anchor a spartan room; records and books are de rigueur, and there has to be an almost transient feeling. The inhabitant can’t appear to care that much, hence unframed art and mattresses at floor level for beds.

Attention to detail is evident though, once you’ve deconstructed the look.

THE ELEMENTS: A neutral backdrop allows textures to shine. So you’ll add a rug to a parquet floor and a high ceiling will lend itself to an antique chandelier, huge mirror or retro film poster (Pierrot le Fou, Le Grand Bleu). Say non to an abundance of objets. Voiles cover the windows and toile de Jouy will be there somewhere. If you are bon chic-bon genre, Pierre Frey fabrics are a staple as are brass saucepans, Biot glassware and bolster pillows – so good for the neck and adds an interesting shape to the bed. For a modern fashion approach Garance Doré’s edit for Shop Latitude features Marwa Moroccan wedding blankets and Otomi bedspreads. An underlying sexiness predominates in the French home, as does the national obsession with beauty.

FRENCH POLISH: The French have a certain je ne sais quoi.

ON YOUR TABLESCAPE: An overflowing ashtray, thought-provoking reading material such as Memoir by Elvis Costello or Erotic Vagrancy by Roger Lewis, a Diptyque candle in Figuier (at Brown Thomas), yellow roses.

GET THE LOOK: Paint walls in Helen Turkington’s Irish Linen, a lovely neutral, with white skirting boards. Have a focal point, preferably in red, such as Eileen Gray’s Bibendum Chair or the Eames La Chaise in red. Invest in a Hastings Ivory daybed (at Laura Ashley). Collect arty postcards, or failing that, large taxidermy items. If space is a premium, as is often the case in Parisian pied-à-terres, invest in the Conran Sapporo Tall Desk (at Marks & Spencer).

Add a functional yet fashionable ladder for draping tea towels in the kitchen or for magazines. For larger items, Jean-Paul Gaultier for Roche Bobois or Ligne Roset are favoured. Blogger Hayleigh Walsworth (of Making Magique) has nailed the insouciant look in her Parisian apartment.

THE DESIGNERS: You visit the biannual Maison et Objets fair, as well as the Musée des Arts Decoratifs.

You are conversant with national icon Philippe 10 Starck’s impressive oeuvre as well as the works of classicists Jean-Michel Franc, Christian Liagre, and Andrée Putman.

However reading William Faulkner, L’Officiel 1000 Modèles and listening to your intuition suffices. You have a feeling for a space and have nothing to learn.

58 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

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DECORATING 1

ITALIAN IN A NUTSHELL: To be the cynosure of all eyes is their objective and to that end Italians are the best at curating their wardrobes as well as their homes. Minimalist to the extreme in many cases, they have been ahead of the curve in appreciating the simplicity of a few well-chosen pieces and the feeling of Zen it encourages. While the gilded splendour of Versace Home and Fendi Casa is sought after by other nationalities, the Italians themselves prefer life to be less ornate. They spend money on FAME – Food, Arts, Music and Entertainment.

Their homes are havens of celebration; the sound system will be impressive.

THE ELEMENTS: Start with sleek, low sofas reinforcing Made in Italy credentials and craftsmanship. The colour scheme is in cashmere tones of lattes, espresso, pannacotta and greige. If the French are sexual, Italians are sensual so Baxter’s touchy-feely suede and leather sofas are for blowing the budget. The focal point will often be the view or onto the balcony. Terrazzo flooring abounds and a lighting feature is one of the statement pieces (at Flos). What defines an Italian apartment is its lack of clutter and carpets, as well as its mix of natural fabrics and elements – stone, wood, leather and silk.

Linen is used because it ages so well. Their spatial awareness is second to none, with concealed storage or dual purpose furniture a priority. In this respect, British designer, Rose Uniacke’s pared down aesthetic will help you with an Italian theme. Whether you find lacquered kitchens, Carrera marble or Frette bedlinen on the first inspection, invariably the Italian home screams luxury.

FASHION HOUSE: Rochas’ designer Allesandro Dell’Acqua’s elegant Milanese home.

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ON YOUR TABLESCAPE: Not much; one sole item might be Rizzoli’s new Armani autobiography, a small collection of succulents, or an Acqua di Parma Cube candle in Amber (at Arnotts).

THE DESIGNERS: The roll call is long and illustrious including Patricia Urquiola, Piero Lissoni and Matteo Thun, but fashion houses set the trend, from Bottega Veneta’s no-label aesthetic to Bulgari’s hotel projects. Like an androgynous Armani suit – the Italian home needs little embellishment. Look at Rochas’ designer Alessandro Dell’Acqua’s home in Milan for inspiration.

GET THE LOOK: Invest in quality and not quantity.

You will have studied Interni magazine or visited Salone del Mobile prior to setting up home. Source modular furniture such as Loft Mylo sofa (at Marks & Spencer) or the charcoal daybed and Unit Sofa Corner (at Muji) and add a key design element such as a Barcelona chair. Pair with it the Calligaris Magic-J fold black lacquered coffee table (at Arnotts) and the Antonn tall walnut shelving unit (at Habitat). Blinds not curtains are more likely – the Emperor Paisley gold pattern emulates Etro’s iconic prints (at Laura Ashley), while draping a Herringbone Digestive throw or a Rome cashmere cushion (both at Avoca) on a bed or sofa costs a fraction of the price of Loro Piana. Try the Ilse Crawford Sinnerlig collection for IKEA in natural cork and tactile materials. In the kitchen you’ll more likely find a Bialetti Moka Express than a Nespresso machine.

The Italians leave l’art du table to the French and concentrate on what’s on the plate, though a collection of Riedel wine glasses emphasises the low-key luxe aesthetic they embrace. ^

60 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

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1. Emperor paisley silk/linen mix fabric in gold, d78 a metre, at Laura Ashley. 2. The lobby of the Bulgari Hotel in Milan. 3. Moka Express espresso maker, Bialetti, from d24.99; www.homestoreandmore. ie. 4. Soft grey Housse Mono sofa, Paola Navone, from a selection, www.baxter.it. 5. The muchanticipated Ilse Crawford Sinnerlig collection for IKEA. 6. IC Lights T table lamp, Flos, from a selection, at Minima. 7. Black Block candle, Acqua Di Parma, d78, at Arnotts.

8. Frette’s luxury bedlinen and accessories are available in Bottom Drawer at Brown Thomas, Dublin.

9. Rome wool patchwork cushion, d49.95, at Avoca.

D E S I G N PO R T R A I T.

Michel seat system and Mart armchair, designed by Antonio Citterio. www.bebitalia.com Now available to view at Minima

Minima, The Waterfront, Hanover Quay, Dublin 2 T 01 633 7716 - www.minima.ie

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ARCHITECTURE NEWS

PARTNERS IN

DESIGN

The Lexicon in Dun Laoghaire was first firmly denounced, then applauded for its spatial drama

L

ess than one year after opening its doors, Dun Laoghaire’s library and cultural centre, the Lexicon has already scooped a number of awards including “Best Cultural” and “Best Public Building” in the 2015 Irish Architecture Awards and has been shortlisted for the prestigious World Architecture Awards. The building’s architects, husband-and-wife team Louise Cotter and David Naessens, above, will travel to Singapore in November to present the project to the international jury.

HOW IT BEGAN Cotter and Naessens studied architecture at UCD, graduated in 1983, and headed to London, which they describe as the “architectural capital of Ireland”. “It seemed the obvious place to start one’s career,” says Naessens. Both worked with renowned practices on major cultural and university buildings.

They returned to Ireland in 2001. In 2007, their Cork-based practice Carr Cotter Naessens won an RIAI international design competition for a library and cultural centre in Dun Laoghaire.

A CONTROVERSIAL PROJECT? Maybe so, but public opinion now rates the building for its design and its

impact on the community. “We think the schedule of activities speaks for itself – the Lexicon is a cultural and social focus for the neighbourhood and county and the project also has a place, physically and culturally, in the greater Dublin Bay area. We never thought we’d see queues of teenagers at the doors of a library! The Lexicon is a civic place. People are the essential component in the ensemble of spaces, which come alive with movement, the changing light and rhythms of the day.”

DIVISION OF LABOUR? “We could each concentrate on specific aspects, with the big picture in mind. One of us would take the lead on particular stages, in line with our particular skill sets.” WHAT’S NEXT? “We’re excited about presenting the Lexicon at the World Architecture Festival. We have also been successful in a number of housing framework applications. This is important work, building on the foundations of our towns and cities for future generations as well as immediate needs.

Housing tends to be seen as a mere commodity, but the places where people live and meet are the basis of a functional and healthy society and should be developed in a holistic and integrated manner.” www.ccnarchitects.net SANDRA ANDREA O’CONNELL

AND THE HONOURS GO TO...

In November, YVONNE FARRELL and SHELLEY MC NAMARA of Grafton Architects will both be recipients of a Foundation Day Alumni Award from UCD for their significant contribution to Architecture, in Ireland and internationally. UCD’s Foundation Day Alumni Awards were established in 2014 as an opportunity to mark the extraordinary achievements of alumni. Both women graduated in 1974 and established Grafton Architects in 1978. As well as being extremely successful as directors of the practice, both women have given back, teaching around the world and lecturing widely in European and American schools of Architecture. They were external examiners for

Cambridge University and the London School of Architecture and continue to teach at UCD. Grafton Architects has garnered numerous awards, among them a RIBA European Award and an Architectural Association of Ireland Award for the University of Limerick Medical School. They designed the much-praised prestigious Luigi Bocconi University in Milan among many other international projects. In 2012, Grafton Architects were nominated for the Stirling Prize and last year were finalists in the competition to design the RDS arena. This month, an installation by Grafton Architects, The Ogham Wall, is on exhibition at the V&A, London to mark London Design Festival in conjunction with ID2015.

T H E G L O S S interiors | Autumn 2015 | 63

ARCHITECTURE NEWS A kitchen in the Percy Lane Mews development with ODOS’ clever window design affording privacy in an urban situation.

A model by The-Architects.

THE DESIGN SHOP PHENOM

LEADING FROM THE FRONT David O’Shea and Darrell O’Donoghue took a proactive approach to the construction downturn “You can’t unwind a legacy of decades of bad housing,” says David O’Shea of ODOS Architects, the award-winning practice he co-founded with Darrell O’Donoghue. “A developer-driven mentality prevailed for so long, we’ve been left with bad housing stock, ghost estates and poor quality design. We’ve hardly moved on from the housing types of the 1970s.” It’s a popular refrain but one that ODOS tried to tackle head-on during the recession years, attempting to engage developers, planners, NAMA and even the banks, in an effort to rescue languishing housing stock and improve it so that it could be sold to meet growing housing needs, while raising industry standards. “Developers with an eye to the bottom line saw architects as costing money; architects weren’t needed in a booming, consuming economy.” So great was the urgency to get on the property ladder, “people didn’t really care too much what their homes looked like or how they were constructed.

And look where that got us. So we did a lot of work, identifying developers who might be open to creating exciting domestic design, or even to freshening up or tweaking their schemes, even workshopping new housing types – free of charge!” So where did their efforts leave them? “Very few people were interested but useful ideas were sown and some of them are bearing fruit now.” A development at Percy Lane in Dublin 4 is a good example of this: a 2008 development put on ice until 2014, edited and improved with a good design and beautiful materials; twelve units where the original scheme had 16. It’s a great example of what can be done with good design and a little vision.

As architects, ODOS keeps the eventual purchaser of a house or apartment in mind: “The people who will live in it, the kids who will grow up there. Good design adds quality to people’s lives.” The practice, now with twelve architects in Dublin and four in London, has been busy recently with a mix of domestic and commercial design, including, as O’Shea describes them, “houses tucked into urban lanes – a lot of fun” – and Luna restaurant among them.

In London, ODOS creative director John Crowley and his team, along with O’Shea and O’Donoghue, are working on two schemes in Soho and a penthouse in Mayfair. among other projects. “I love the energy we get from working there. We bring it back. London allows us to stretch our wings; the budgets are bigger and the projects move faster.” What’s next? “We are working on a house in the Hamptons.

New York in 2016?” Onwards and upwards. www.odosarchitects.com

64 | Autumn 2015 | T H E G L O S S interiors

Luna restaurant on Drury Street in Dublin.

The trend for operating architectural studios at street level in former shops continues: one of the first practices here to do it was Donaghy + Dimond Architects who operate from 41 Francis Street, Dublin 8, 01 416 8132.

When architects Niall Browne and David Shannon merged their separate practices two years ago, they branded their joint entity The-Architects and are now located at 111 Patrick Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, 01 214 4444. These moves to retail spaces are prescient: in Denmark and parts of the US, young creative urbanite professionals (aka architects) are being encouraged to work in “micro-outlets” in the heart of retail areas. It’s a way of bringing the profession to a wider audience and even encouraging “walk-in” business.

OPEN HOUSE: BEHIND CLOSED DOORS Those of you who spend hours on Pinterest gathering stylish interiors ideas, make sure you’re in town when Dublin opens its doors for Open House Dublin 2015, the tenth free celebration of the city’s best architecture, revealing beautiful homes and buildings around the city. This year’s theme is “This Place We Call Home”, and will focus on the theme of domesticity and urban space. You’ll catch us exploring the house of Ireland’s most celebrated architects, Sheila O’Donnell and John Tuomey, in Rathmines, among other gorgeous homes all over the city. October 1418; see www.openhousedublin.com.

Darrell O’Donoghue and David O’Shea.

The Percy Lane Mews development.

The O’Donnell Tuomey house in Rathmines.

House by de Siún Scullion Architects.

the gift of fragrance

www.maxbenjamin.ie

Photo Michel Gibert. Photograph used for representational purposes only. Special thanks: Camille Stoos / TASCHEN

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