THE COURTYARD GARDEN / BREAKING KITCHEN RULES / BEAUTIFYING A NEW BUILD / CLEVER COUCHES
SPRING 2016
WIN A DREAM KITCHEN WORTH
€25,000 See page 19
+
DESIGNER TRICKS BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN
THE POWER OF PINK + A FAMILY HOME GROWS UP + GOING DUTCH
Make yourself at home You know how some rooms just make you feel instantly at ease? Above: Our Chichester kitchen painted in Shingle: from €12,000/£10,000, Suffolk chopping block: from €1,240/£895. Left: Suffolk 1200mm potboard painted in Shale: from €1,280/£925, Stratton decorative ladder: €205/£145 and Somerton basket: from €53/£28.
Stores nationwide All our kitchens come with a Lifetime Guarantee† †
For full details visit neptune.com/ie/guarantee
Handcrafted luxury
Drumleck, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth (Exit 15 of M1, only 45mins from Dublin & Belfast) T: 042 937 2625 E: info@oconnorkitchens.ie Showroom by appointment only
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luxury redefined
the KITCHEN &&HOME kitchen home
TO view A viDeO OF THiS excepTiOnAl KiTcHen GO TO THeDeSiGnYARD.cOM Call us on 01 676 9511 / 028 8775 0005 or email info@thedesignyard.com to arrange a consultation with a member of our design team. For more information: thedesignyard.com
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Dublin
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11-15 Erne St Upper dublin@thedesignyard.com
Intervari, 16a Wigmore St london@thedesignyard.com
THE
INTERIORS INDEX FEVER PITCH < TRADITIONAL DINNERWARE Silver trays, gravy boats and footed bowls. Hardworking and fabulous in equal measure
Double Angle brass pendant light, Michael Anastassiades, from ¤4,000, at Porter & Jones, 39 Fitzwilliam Street Upper, Dublin 2. Ireland.
IN THIS ISSUE The world of interiors is just tuning in to the idea of the “empathy economy” – the valuable currency attached to things we buy for our homes that evoke an emotional response. Moodboards, used to great effect by interior designers, are
SCULPTURAL LIGHTING > When kitchen lighting doubles up as a work of art. Result
rarely deployed by architects, yet, when redesigning, it is a feeling we want to create
HIGHLY SUITABLE > Think of your furniture as a fine wool suit. Forget grey, camel hair is hotting up
from fashion and art. We want colour in our homes and things that help us feel
as much as a look, and a good moodboard provokes a gut reaction every time. This spring, if you want a fresh start, plan your own moodboard. At THE GLOSS, our spring moodboard features photographs, fabric swatches, paint charts, inspiration more optimistic, like greenery in every room, a plush sofa, a kitchen planned not to a formula but around our family’s unique needs, paint colours – blue, green, pink – inspired by real life, and things to which we are emotionally tied, like objects, pictures and books. There is too much pressure to have everything looking perfect. Remember, it’s a mood, not a look. And possibly the best mood enhancer of all? The thought of a kitchen make-over worth ¤25,000. See P19 for details.
< MURAL-STYLE WALLPAPER The ultimate in wallcoverings
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SPRING INSPIRATIONS The thrill of the new: trends, furniture, paint and accessories
STATEMENT MIRRORS > ... enhance any space, especially your statement bathroom
20
LOW TEMPERATURE
COUCH CULTURE How to choose a sofa that fits your home and your lifestyle
TOO MUCH GREY We really love grey, but we know it’s time to give it a rest < MOROCCAN POUFFES Nice to look at but truly uncomfortable
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WOODLAND CREATURES Antlers are for animals, not for walls. Ditto deer, owls and foxes on cushions and textiles - they’ve had their day
SEARCH FOR CLARITY Reflection and remodelling results in an exciting new chapter for a family home
WIN A KITCHEN To celebrate 25 years in business, NOEL DEMPSEY DESIGN is giving away a luxury fitted kitchen worth 025,000 to a reader of THE GLOSS INTERIORS. Turn to page 19, or see www.thegloss.ie, to find out how to enter.
PU BLI S H E R JA N E MC DO N N EL L
A RT D I RE C TO R L AUR A K E N N Y
EDITO R S A R A H MC D O N N EL L
D E S I G N E R FAY E KEE G A N
STYL E E D I TO R A I S L I N N C O FFEY
A DV E RT I S I N G SA L E S DI RECTOR
ASS I STANT E D I TO R S A RAH BREEN
TRAC Y O RMIS T O N
ON THE COVER: Interior designed by Jonathan Adler. Photographed by William Waldron / The Interior Archive.
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THE BEAUTY OF A NEW BUILD Capitalising on convenience without compromising on character
38
A FABRIC AFFAIR Irish interior designer Sarah Chambers takes a patient approach to decorating
44
KITCHEN RULES & HOW TO BREAK THEM Received wisdom be damned: have the kitchen you want
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 2016 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.
Photo Michel Gibert. Photograph used as a reference only.
l’art de vivre by roche bobois
European manufacture
Long Island 2 modular sofa, designed by Studio Roche Bobois. Rezé pedestal tables, designed by Studio Roche Bobois. UNIT D1 Beacon South Quarter, Dublin 18. Tel: 01-653-1650 dublin@rochebobois.ie
OpeNINg hOUrs: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm, Monday – Saturday 12.00 am – 6.00 pm, Sunday & Bank Holidays
Complementary 3D Interior Design Service
www.roche-bobois.com
THE LOWDOWN INSPIRATION
1
20 INSPIRING
SPRING IDEAS EMILIA WICKSTEAD SS16
GUCCI SS16
THE SEASON’S MOODBOARD IS FULL OF COLOUR AND PERSONALITY ...
2 THE TREND:
T HE T RE ND:
RUNWAY TO RUG
HIP HOUSE PLANTS
Statement sumptuous carpets took centre stage on the spring catwalks. Lush florals and statement plains make us yearn for something soft underfoot. TC Matthews Quirky B Chainmail wool carpet is wellworth a look. www.tcmatthews.ie.
8 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
THE TR END:
ROSE ROOMS Pink is notoriously tricky. Fired Earth’s complex Rose Mallow paint shade (the pinky-coloured petals form the flowers of the herb) is just the right amount of tint, redolent of the 1930s. Pink walls look best when paired with marble, timber and metallics. Matte emulsion, ¤46.74 for 2.5l, at Fired Earth, 19 Lower George’s Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.
Potted plants are an instant room refresher. Go big, think exotic: fig trees, tropical ferns and cascading green vines all tick the style box. Check out specialists like Urban Plant Life, 110 Cork Street, Dublin 8.
INSPIRATION
THE TRE ND:
Black Fairytale occasional table, Valsecchi 1918, 0319; www.amara.com.
BLACK FURNITURE
Black Scoop upholstered chair with copper legs, Tom Dixon, 01,372, www. houseology.com.
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Black Talon timber hand-finished side table with gilded legs, POA, John Ireland Furniture; www. johnirelandfurniture.com.
T H E T R END:
PAINTERLY SHADES
Irish company Fleetwood’s fab Prestige Vogue colour palette is inspired by iconic moments in time, with each shade telling a unique story. There are 60 shades in the spectrum, including eight base shades in six variations as well as a collection of twelve white shades and twelve statement colour shades – Shelbourne is perfectly matched to the exterior brick of the famed hotel; a great blue shade called Sylvia Beach is a nod to the colour chosen for the front cover of James Joyce’s Ulysses by publisher Sylvia Beach while Monet (pictured here) is inspired by the famous Waterlily oil painting series; this shade reads crisp and clear yet has a warm feel. Check out www.fleetwood.ie for your nearest stockist.
Jack Black 119, The Little Greene Paint Company, €6.50 a sample pot, MRCB Paints & Papers, 12-13 Cornmarket, Dublin 8.
Not only are black metals showing up everywhere — from black stainless steel in the kitchen to noir-esque bathroom fixtures — but black furniture, black tables and chairs are also making a dramatic entrance. If you’re not in the market for a new buy, why not up-cycle something old with a lick of the black stuff.
THE TREND:
RUSTIC WARES
Want a top table? Helen James’ fresh approach to traditional earthenware/ stoneware is fit for the most discerning hosts. The SS16 Considered collection is inspired by natural materials and craftsmanship, available at Dunnes Stores nationwide. Above: Ludlow vase, 035; Ludlow lipped bowl, 025; Ludlow small platter, 012; Speckle cereal bowl, 010; Speckle mug, 08; Speckle side plate, 010; all Considered by Helen James at Dunnes Stores.
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TIP:
“When painting furniture, make sure it’s really well cleaned, and all wax polish, dirt and grime are fully removed. Allow adequate time to dry after cleaning and always use an adhesion-promoting primer first before applying your topcoat to make sure the paint adheres.” Kevin Coghlan, MRCB Paints & Papers.
T HE T RE ND:
SEIZE THE DAHLIA
“Dahlias, once dismissed as the last word in Victorian vulgarity, have slowly inched their way back up the horticultural pecking order,” according to gardener and presenter Alan Titchmarsh. “Modern dwarf varieties are real stars in patio containers.” We love them on a summer dining table mixed with wild foliage, herbs and seed pods, and even a small posy has serious impact. Plant these easyto-grow hardy perennials in May.
3 O F T H E BE ST FLO R A L C U S H I O N S Painterly floral cushions add a spring touch to any room. Pair with solids – a single cushion can sometimes be enough ... 10 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
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2
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MEG A
MI D- RANGE
MO DE ST
Passiflora fringed cotton cushion, Missoni Home, 0192; www. amara.com.
Gail’s Garden velvet cushion, 0175; www.liberty. co.uk.
Promenade cotton cushion, Paul Costelloe Living, 050, at Dunnes Stores.
Luxury kitchens, fitted furniture, windows, doors & architectural joinery for the finest homes worldwide.
www.hayburn.com | +44 (0) 845 371 2420
Dulux paints’ SS16 collection.
INSPIRATION
Mulveys Vintage Classic Appalachian Hickory Laminate wood flooring. 1.719m2, ¤41.17.
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THE TREND:
T HE T RE ND:
PAST MODERN
MID-TONE WOOD FLOORS
A year and a half ago, international trend forecasters (WGSN) predicted that come 2016, interiors designers would be focusing on dark, saturated tones (tinted blacks, deep blues, ochre and greens) embellished by glints of precious metallics. How right they were. Check out Dulux’s new SS16 palette: we love the ochre tones.
This season, do as the Danes and roll up your rugs and switch carpets for wood. It’s the flooring equivalent to recovering your wool sofa in cotton or linen. There are lots of styles that will transform your house for spring, solid or engineered, wide-plank or standard, light oak or moderately dark, matte or gloss. Ask the wood flooring specialists at Mulveys, in Dundrum, Dublin 16, for a free consultation; info@mulveys.com or call 01 296 4358.
THE TREND:
OMBRÉ EFFECTS
Originating on the international runways (then filtering down to nails and hair), interior designers are now working up to adopt the trend. Get the look for your home with watercolour style dip-dye upholstery and fabrics and cushions that fade from dark to light. Don’t be afraid to dip in.
Ombré Rilene velvet cushion, ¤47.95; www.lenebjerre.com.
THE TREND:
SUMMING UP STYLE
The home + children’s + nightwear and lingerie equation at Dunnes Stores’s new First Floor in the Stephen’s Green Shopping centre could be a winning formula. It’s divided into stories, so you can shop room by room, look by look. As ever, value is a given, the quality a revelation. There’s lots of inspiration from the styling too: multiple mannequin varieties and props inject fun, especially in the childrenswear zone. See the twelve-drawer utility unit by Carolyn Donnelly Eclectic,¤550 (left) as well as Paul Costelloe Living and Considered by Helen James; all at Dunnes Stores; www.dunnesstores.ie.
Ombré Manhattan linen sofa, ¤2,325; www.modshop1.com.
5 O F T H E BE ST BLU E A N D W H I T E VASES The classic colour combination is making a comeback this season 2 1
PA PE R Greco paper vase, ¤17; www. octaevo.com
12 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
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OP TI CAL EFFECTS Vestige ceramic vase, Rebecca Vallée Selosse, from a selection at Roche Bobois, Beacon South Quarter, Dublin 18.
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STRI P ES Blue wide stripe porcelain vase, Anne Black, ¤70; www.amara. com.
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CL ASSIC FLO RAL Blue floral ceramic vase, ¤39.99; www.zarahome. com.
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ART ISAN Stripe vase, from ¤12, from a selection at Article, Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2.
THE LOWDOWN INSPIRATION
The pretty courtyard at The Dylan.
The salon at The Dylan, with original canvascovered walls.
Xxxx xxxx The Dylan Hotel
The Michelinstarred Vinkeles restaurant at The Dylan.
T H E TREN D :
GOING DUTCH JUST WHY IS AMSTERDAM SO INTERIORS INSPIRATIONAL?
A
sk Amsterdamers why they dislike when their city is called the Venice of the north, and they say it is because most believe it is superior in riches. While in the past both cities shared a civic ethos and culture of consumption, Amsterdam is now the more creative and tolerant. It is open-minded, charming and intimate in scale. Old Masters, hip cafés, 17th-century charm and urban edgy cool all combine in one picturesque, canalside location. And, as peak tulip time approaches, its three main museums beautified, its arty café and restaurant scene buzzing, Amsterdam’s gilded appearance makes it the perfect place for a short break. Just walking around, in search of the best design shops, you can take in the pretty gabled townhouses and absorb how the facades are decorated and, as most of their windows won’t have curtains, you can see right inside to take in the mellow, lamp-lit rooms, the mix of vintage and modern furniture, the striking ways that art is hung and that materials are used. If you are in Amsterdam for the architecture, it helps to choose a hotel that epitomises the Dutch way of repurposing historic buildings into stylish spaces, respecting the building’s past with modern comfort and sophistication. The Dylan, acquired by its Irish owners from Anouska Hempel, is located at the convergence of three canals, in the chic “Nine
Streets” shopping area, within walking distance of all the key sights. Set in two historic 17th-century side-by-side houses, this luxury boutique hotel has many unique features including a delightful courtyard garden. The site dates back to 1612 when it was home to a theatre and almshouse bakery, now the location for its chic Michelin-starred restaurant, Vinkeles. The public spaces have been refurbished but the owners have retained features that are irreplaceable, like the original canvas wallcoverings and oak floors in the salon which were restored and emit a warm glow. Tobacco, green
and blue tints, in rugs, sofas and chairs, are reminiscent of the 17th century and the atmosphere is restful and elegant. Design details abound: even the waitstaff wear specially designed aprons with leather trims. There are 40 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, all uniquely designed and furnished. Following intensive refurbishment and improvement, the Rijksmusem, home to the Old Masters, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk are reopened though booking is a must for the Rijksmusuem as it is to visit Anne Frank Huis, the former home of one of the city’s best-known residents. Amsterdam is one of the most multicultural cities in Europe and has colourful and lively open-air markets, many open daily, including the famous Albert Cuypmarkt food market, where you can pick up authentic Dutch food items and, of course, the renowned Flower Market. With rising design talent combined with flagships for global brands and some beautiful arcades and streets, the city provides really great shopping for visitors. Stop by Moooi, to see designer Marcel Wanders’ furniture and home accessories range and Droog, where the café above the shop is very cool. Don’t leave without visiting shops like The Frozen Fountain and Friday Next, or picking up an art book from Mendo. ^ www.dylanamsterdam.com
5 O F T H E BE ST I N T E R I O R S H AU N TS In Amsterdam, almost every street has a shop or café whose interior inspires. But, there are some worth a specific visit ...
1 MOOOI Award-winning, world-famous designer Marcel Wanders, cofounder of Moooi, has been called the “Lady Gaga of Design” for his use of unexpected materials and his take on everyday furniture and objects.
14 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
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2 DROOG The design company creates cuttingedge products and has a cool gallery and shop with furniture, lighting and table-top as well as bedlinen and stationery.
3 THE FROZEN
FOUNTAI N This cool design destination supports young designers and you’ll find a mix of furniture and fabrics and interesting one-offs.
SUKHA Founder of this mini department store Irene Martens fills it with fashion and furniture, accessories and art with much of it crafted to Dutch design by workers in India.
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FRIDAY NE XT Founded by two interior designers, the mix of vintage furnishings and modern Dutch design results in an eyecatching and inspiring space.
INSPIRATION
TREND:
IN FULL BLOOM
Henry Holland is collaborating with Habitat to launch his first interiors collection. The limited edition designs will & Brothers’ Makers Fjura’d vessel Awkward feature graphic prints from spaces come the designer’s SS16 catwalk, into their own translated across textiles and when papered with statement upholstery. Launches in wallpaper. May, www.habitat.co.uk. 2
TREND:
THE FLORAL TABLE
SCE NTS O F T HE GARDE N 1 Green Tomato Leaf Home Candle, Marthe Armitage for Jo Malone London, ¤55, at Brown Thomas from June. 2 Ortensia Rose, Iris and Orange Blossom scented candle, Fornasetti, ¤135, at Seagreen, Monkstown Cresent, Monkstown, Co Dublin. 3 Blue Flowers (freesia, jasmine and rose) scented candle, Max Benjamin, ¤22, at Avoca and selected stores.
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How to create the perfect summer tablescape to impress your guests? Ditch the idea of a colour theme: mixing it all up has a dramatic effect, especially when coupled with standout linen such as these digitalprint floral print napkins from Zara Home. ¤22.99 for four; www.zarahome.com
Still Life With Vase (aquatint in colours, 82 x 69cm) by Pablo Picasso, ¤150 per month.
THE T RE ND:
SOMETHING BORROWED
TR E N D:
FASHIONABLE ACCESSORIES
Art addicts, imagine a Damien Hirst, Pablo Picasso, or Richard Gorman hanging in your home? Online art platform Belcourt Art Leasing is a rental service that allows you to lease original artwork (including paintings, sculptures and photography) for your home, or business, on a short to long-term basis from under ¤100 per month. Belcourt takes care of delivery, installation, collection and insurance. What’s not to love? www.belcourtartleasing.com.
Designer looks on a budget? This season, the high street has been inspired by Italian heavyweight design house Missoni, known for its vibrant zig zag and floral prints. Get the look for moderate prices: ¤49 for the director’s chair at Homebase, and ¤1.80 for dinky hand towels at Penneys.
5 O F T H E BE ST BOTA N I C A L PI E C ES Spring’s bright blooms are adorning everything from trays and serving dishes to plates and mugs ...
5 FANTASY
2 G RAP HI C 4 O L D-SCHO O L
Floral-print porcelain mug, Pip Studio, ¤12.95, at Avoca.
1 PA IN TE R LY Morning Bouquet iron tray, ¤127; www.anthropologie.com.
16 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
Hibiscus porcelain 1.5l covered vegetable dish, Wedgwood, ¤267, at Brown Thomas.
3 DESI G NER Floral-print porcelain dinner plate, Richard Ginori for Missoni Home, ¤99; www.yoox.com.
Printed birch tray, ¤50, from a selection at The Blue Door, Monkstown, Co Dublin.
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Red outdoor rug, ¤269.95; www.fatboycom.
INSPIRATION
Antique-style hanging lantern, from a selection at Rowell Design, The Crescent, Donnybrook, Dublin 4.
The courtyard at Ralph’s, Paris.
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Ancient Pink parasol, ¤169, at Marks & Spencer.
T HE T RE ND:
ROOM OUTSIDE
Now’s the time to freshen up a tired garden with a few well-chosen accessories. Bring the indoors outdoors with livingroom-style pieces. For dining chairs, consider newlyfashionable wicker only if your dining space is covered, otherwise stick to coated metals. Add an outdoor rug underfoot and a parasol in a pretty colour.
THE TR E N D:
THE COURTYARD GARDEN Not everyone has a courtyard but everyone with some outside space — ideally bordered by a wall of the house itself, or a garden wall — can create a courtyard-style garden. Defining a manageable space also defines the size of the project, which can be as ambitious as having a landscaper design a scheme, or doing a simple version yourself. A modest scheme is easily costed up — and budgeted for — while paying off immeasurably in your enjoyment of the garden.
Plummett exterior eggshell paint, Farrow & Ball, ¤33 for 750ml, at MRCB, Cornmarket, Dublin 8.
Red Luxembourg garden chair, Fermob, ¤219; www. ambientedirect. com.
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BE AUT IFU L PL ANT E RS 1 Lorraine stone planter, ¤310; www.frontgate.com. 2 Terracotta urn with pedestal, ¤225, at Howbert & Mays, 27 Monkstown Crescent, Monkstown, Co Dublin. 3 Trafalgar planter, £184stg; www.thechelseagardener.com.
THE TREND:
GREEN SCENE
A study in green: earthy yet elegant, soft French green hues, with grey undertones, are very soothing. When it comes to outdoor furniture — whether it's rustic, classic, or contemporary — this shade is a smart winner.
Victoria metal bench, ¤120, at Homebase; www.homebase.co.uk.
Glass Bird vase, Laura Ashley, ¤42, at House of Fraser. Ocean stripe outdoor rug, Lexington, ¤311; www.cuckooland.com.
Stone pointer statues, ¤110 each, at Skibbereen Garden Centre, Skibbereen, Co Cork.
3 O F T H E BE ST G A R D E N TA BLE S Smart tables become the focal point of a courtyard garden. Go modern, French-style or industrial ...
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C E R A M IC Gloster ceramictop dining table, ¤4,730; www. houseology.com.
18 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
2
W ROUGHT I RON Provence iron table, in three sizes, from ¤265, at Neptune, Global Village, Powerscourt, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow; www.neptune.com.
3
WO O D Industrial mango wood outdoor table, ¤629; www. vivalagoon.com.
WIN A LUXURY KITCHEN WORTH €25,000 FROM NOEL DEMPSEY DESIGN To mark the 25th anniversary of Noel Dempsey Design, we are giving away a luxury fitted kitchen worth €25,000, exclusive to readers of The Gloss Interiors! If your kitchen could do with a complete makeover, enter our competition for a chance to win a luxury fitted kitchen from Noel Dempsey Design. The prize includes personal consultations with the design team in our newly renovated Wicklow showroom and the chance to select your dream kitchen from the latest in innovative design from the new 2016 Collection. Since 1991, Noel Dempsey has been designing and manufacturing the most beautiful bespoke furniture for clients in Ireland and abroad. From a small workshop at Noel’s family home, he began making kitchens and furniture for family and friends. Twenty five years on, Noel Dempsey Design is the go-to company for luxury kitchens and interiors.
For your chance to win the kitchen of your dreams, simply visit www.noeldempsey.com/dreamkitchen Terms & Conditions Apply
County Wicklow +3 5 3 (0 )4 0 4 6 4 5 4 8 www.noeld emp s ey.com
FURNITURE TRENDS
COUCH CULTURE A sofa is an investment to last a lifetime. But how do you choose something that you’ll love for ever? Express your personality with the latest styles
W
hether you’re drawn to pared-back styles or the most expansive plushest velvets, choosing a sofa goes way beyond a few measurements. Orior Design, the Newry-based company behind the bespoke seating at Fade Street Social and the Spencer Hotel in Dublin, is championing comfort combined with charisma this season. Inspired by New York, home to their second showroom, the new collection features daring fabrics like taxicab-yellow leather and Harris tweed, inspired by the High Line. But it’s not just about being dazzled on first glance. Creative Director Ciaran McGuigan advises: “You might be attracted by the design at first, but you also need to look at the sofa’s function – its comfort and accessibility. It’s not just about looking good. Make sure of the quality, so that your sofa will last a lifetime.”
1. THE HEDONIST
A velvet sofa might not be the most sensible choice, but it’s wonderfully decadent and entirely glamorous. “The trend for velvet sofas remains strong,” notes Emily Maher of Dublin’s Lost Weekend. “Jewel colours are particularly popular.” Even if you’re generally low-key in terms of wall colours and décor, a dazzling emeraldgreen velvet sofa is a way to add instant charisma, and create a focal point to a room. Follow your instincts and choose a colour that makes your heart sing, from ruby to sapphire blue. Make a statement.
OLIVIA GRAHAM
VELVET OVERGROUND
2. BIG DREAMER
SINGING THE BLUES While blue walls might feel chilly, a sofa is the perfect way to add a splash of blue into a room, whether it’s turquoise to slate to inky midnight. Take inspiration from designer Matthew Williamson’s London showroom (right). Roche Bobois’ royal-blue velvet Profile sofa is a modern classic, while their new Syllabe comes in sleek navy Toundra leather.
GET THE LOOK: LEFT: Anya three-seater sofa bed in turquoise, DFS, ¤1,089, 8, The Park, Carrickmines, Co Dublin. BELOW: Syllabe sofa, ¤5,720, at Roche Bobois, Beacon South Quarter, Dublin 18.
GET THE LOOK:
Go big and bright with Ikea’s emerald-green Stockholm sofa, ¤1,200, at Ikea, St Margaret’s Road, Ballymun, Dublin 11; Oscar four-seater sofa in peony matte velvet, £2,440stg; www.sofa.com.
20 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
GET THE LOOK: Cabbie sofa
FURNITURE TRENDS
in yellow leather, Orior by Design, from ¤8,000, at Orior, Unit 12, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Rampart Road, Newry, BT34 2QU.
4. THE MAXIMALIST OFF THE SCALE
Green Upside sofa, Roche Bobois, ¤8,360.
Think big: if you have the space, go for the longest, largest sofa you can afford. This is ideal for open areas that need to be divided. Customise your own combination of seating at Roche Bobois, and BoConcept. Or go all-out in terms of colour and pattern – Orior by Design’s Cabbie sofa in brilliant yellow leather will make you smile every time you see it, while Henry Holland’s upcoming collaboration with Habitat, launching in May (from www.habitat.co.uk), is typically flamboyant, with exotic prints from the designer’s catwalk collection.
Betsy four-seater sofa, DFS, ¤869.
3. MIMIMALIST CLEAN LINES Keep things elegantly simple with clean lines and elegant shapes. If your natural style is cluttered, a sleek sofa will inject a calm focal point. For smaller rooms, Harvey Norman sofa specialists advise sticking to neutral colours, as this accentuates light and space: the Harrison two-seater in natural fabric ticks the boxes (¤399) www.harveynorman.ie.
5. LOUNGE LIZARD CREATURE COMFORTS Is comfort your priority? You would think that was a given, yet many modern sofas look sharp but aren’t designed for lounging on, and no amount of cushions will soften them up. Emily Maher notes that the classic Florence Knoll sofa now comes in a “relax” version which has softer cushions than the original, “so it’s supremely comfortable while retaining the sleek silhouette.” Coco Chanel designed the spacious sofa for her rue Cambon apartment and made comfort a priority, using the softest quilted pale suede and surrounding it with books. Take inspiration too from Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, where seating is both beautiful and hard to move from. Soft linen covers look beautifully lived-in, and soften and fade each time they’re washed (so they’re practical, too). ^
GET THE LOOK:
ABOVE: Clarence green velvet sofa, £4,480stg; RIGHT: Sawtooth quilted cushion cover, £75stg; both at The Conran Shop; www.conranshop.co.uk. BELOW: Fable three-seater sofa, ¤699, Harvey Norman.
Maxalto Lucrezia sofa, Roche Bobois, from ¤4,770.
GET THE LOOK:
Create your own seat set-up with the modular Maxalto, configured according to your room’s dimensions.
22 | Spring 2016 | T H E G L O S S interiors
miele.ie/experience
Discover stunning design, intuitive technology and unbeatable quality. At the Miele Experience Centre we invite you to come and explore the full Miele range of kitchen appliances, and to be inspired by expert appliance demonstrations and cookery masterclasses.
Miele Experience Centre 2024 Bianconi Avenue Citywest Business Campus Dublin 24 Phone 01 461 0710
The Miele Experience Centre, Dublin Your destination for appliance inspiration.
miele.ie/experience
COOKING AND BAKING
VACUUM CLEANERS
LAUNDRY
DISHWASHERS
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FROM OUR 2016 COLLECTION
Rathnew, Co Wicklow Telephone 0404 65000 www.newcastledesign.ie
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
SEARCH FOR CLARITY After a year-long renovation, the owners of this house feel it finally reflects the way they want to live PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON WATSON
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HOUSE STYLE
W
hen the traditional layout and style of the double-fronted period terraced house they lived in for 20 years ceased to deliver, the owners faced the prospect of a move – or a total refurbishment. The should we stay or should we go question inspired a range of possibilities but the option that appealed most was for them to remain in situ and engage a designer in to make their home look as good as it deserved to look. Eager to begin this fresh chapter of their lives, they commissioned the services of interior designer Philippa Buckley and her firm Studio44. The brief was pretty clear: the interior needed to be stylish, more grown-up to reflect the lifestage of the family yet highly purposeful. While the clients looked forward to a more beautified space, it also needed to function well from a day-to day perspective and when entertaining guests. More storage was on the wishlist, as was an improved lighting scheme throughout and a kitchen that could accommodate a table that seated a minimum of ten. “My clients wanted to relocate the kitchen from the basement to hall level, and design an interior that would be informal yet work for entertaining,” says Philippa Buckley. OPPOSITE: In the kitchen, hanging over the Dakota oval dining table by Julian Chichester is a large decorative light, Macchina della Luce by Catellani & Smith. THIS PAGE: The grey wool rug was designed by Studio44. The sofas are by Casamilano and the velvet armchairs are by Antonio Citterio for the Maxalto range by B&B Italia. The marble and chrome coffee table and the sideboard are also by B&B Italia. The gilt overmantel mirror reflects the centrepiece fibre glass pendant, PostKrisi, by Catellani & Smith.
T H E G L O S S interiors | Spring 2016 | 27
HOUSE STYLE
“THE SLEEK KITCHEN UNITS ARE SO ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED THEIR PRESENCE IS HARDLY DISCERNIBLE IN THE ROOM.”
The sleek kitchen units are so ergonomically designed, their presence is hardly discernible in the room and the choice of a glamorous dining table and a beautiful decorative light mean this kitchen is a seamless addition to the other entertaining spaces on this level. Formerly separated by a wall from the front sitting room, the kitchen now opens to it via double doors, allowing light from the sunny orientation at the back to permeate the front. This sitting room contains an L-shaped sofa, perfect for relaxing and watching movies after dinner. “It’s a more sociable layout,” says Buckley. “It also means you can extend the dining table when needed.” Across the hall, the drawing room was also given a makeover. While the owners retained some of their pictures and other pieces of art from this room, they parted with their furniture, allowing Buckley free rein. “It wasn’t that it was outdated, it just didn’t address the requirements for this sophisticated space, “ says Buckley. She chose a pair of luxuriously comfortable sofas by Casamilano and a marble and chrome coffee table by B&B Italia to set the scene. Next purchase, chosen for its craftsmanship as well as the rosy gold light it throws, was the beautiful gold and copper centrepiece pendant by Catellani & Smith. “You need to trust your big purchases will do the job they are required to do,” says Buckley. “The ceilings are high in this room, the walls pale and the windows undressed so a dramatic light, reflected in the mirror, adds something special.” ^
OPPOSITE: In the new kitchen, freed up from anything around it except a moveable stainless steel prep table from Bulthaup, the original fireplace gains greater prominence. LEFT: The white kitchen is by Leicht from McNally Kitchens, its very simple lines a lovely contrast to the ornate plasterwork of the ceiling. Throughout the house, the original shutters are used. ABOVE: Art is illuminated via specialist light fittings from John Cullen Lighting London.
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HOUSE STYLE
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HOUSE STYLE
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HOUSE STYLE
“THE SITTING ROOM CONTAINS AN L-SHAPED SOFA ... IT’S A MORE SOCIABLE LAYOUT ...”
LEFT: In the alcove, bookcases designed by Studio44 were made to fit. The leather chair is from Poltrona Frau, the tables are from FAT-FAT Collection by B&B Italia. The pendant light is a match of the kitchen light by Catellani & Smith. ABOVE TOP: In the master bedroom, the headboard is upholstered in navy velvet by JAB. ABOVE BELOW: The dressing table is by Julian Chichester.
DESIGNER’S EYE PHILIPPA BUCKLEY and her team at Studio44 offer a bespoke architecture, interior and project management service.
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1 MIRROR
2 LIGHT
“Mirrors are one of the most versatile decorating tools and antique ones, used in a modern context, like this elegant one in the dining area, create a powerful and decorative effect.”
The impact of good lighting is underestimated: it enhances in so many ways. Here, our client sourced some beautiful feathers in London and made the shade she wanted.”
3 DETAIL “There is nothing like the look of a luxurious staircarpet but it must be durable. I use luxe wool and tufted velvets and select tones that work with the overall palette.”
DESIGN
BRINGING OUT THE BEAUTY OF A
NEW BUILD Designer-architect duo EOIN LYONS and JOHN KELLY bring elegance and character to new-build projects PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK SCOTT
W
hile architect John Kelly and designer Eoin Lyons and their practice LyonsKelly are no strangers to domestic reinvention in houses of all shapes and sizes, from all periods and via different budgets, their work of late seems to have cornered a part of the market that’s less tried and tested but might have far-reaching influence: beautifying the new build. With austerity a word that’s been consigned to the dustbin, the challenge is just how to make modern spaces inviting rather than hard-edged, humanising rather than alienating. “Many people love the idea of living in new builds for all the obvious advantages they bring in terms of streamlined aesthetics, convenience, energy rating, yet most do not want to live in a space that is sharp, austere or stark,” says Lyons. It’s about balancing the modern with the liveable to create a contemporary environment that isn’t one dimensional. It’s also about the appropriateness of the interior that makes a new build work. “It’s not just about furnishings and mixing styles and eras, it’s about careful choices of floor treatments and joinery, about scaling intimate and grand, about sound and privacy, restraint and fun.”
STARTING FROM SCRATCH The commission was to design a contemporary modern house for a couple starting a fresh chapter of their lives, who wanted to live and entertain on one level, yet have additional bedrooms and bathrooms on the first floor for use by family and friends who would come to stay. The approach by LyonsKelly was to design a large luxury apartment-style living space on the ground floor which, by the addition of courtyards within the secluded garden space, gets light all day. The plan of this ground floor was to be open-plan to facilitate entertaining but to ensure rooms could be closed off when required. This is achieved by the use of sliding doors. The ceiling heights were varied in order to create grander or more intimate spaces depending on their function, with the dining room height being 2-7 metres while the bedroom and study are lower. A series of rooms open from the entrance hallway, but are not immediately visible, allowing for a sense of privacy as well as a level of formality. Each room has one outstanding specially commissioned piece, around which the rest of the decoration centres. And the decorating style is very much about combining old and new. “We encourage clients to furnish their homes with things that have personal meaning. In a new build, this is extremely important as it adds softness and complexity to the simplicity of the architecture,” says Lyons. Indeed, the designers’ choice of a single floor finish of smoked oak rather than stone, and slatted timber ceilings which are textured and sound-proofed, has added a lovely soft-edged modernity to this beautiful new build. ABOVE: The kitchen, designed by LyonsKelly, was made by Peter Bernard, and the joinery at the back wall cleverly conceals a back kitchen for use when entertaining. The bronze and glass pendant by Niamh Barry is a stunning centrepiece. RIGHT: In the hall, a pivot door opens to the living room with its curved sofas by Hamilton Conte Paris and a Luke Irwin rug. The Zinta bench upholstered in green is from Minima. OPPOSITE: A view from the sitting room through to the study and then to the bedroom, the spaces divided when required by sliding doors. The four-metre high ceilings are slatted in poplar for acoustic purposes and cleverly incorporate curtain rails. There are also recessed blackout blinds on the floor-to-ceiling windows. In the foreground, the clients’ art, oriental rug and Lucite table and a customdesigned L-shaped sofa upholstered in textured velvet by Hodsoll McKenzie. The Husk leather chair is by B&B Italia from Minima and the desk with leather top is by Philippe Hurel. The pink hemp wallpaper in the bedroom is by Phillip Jeffries.
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DESIGN
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DESIGN
TRUE TO THE ARCHITECTURAL AESTHETIC In Lyons and Kelly’s own apartment behind Dublin’s Merrion Square’s northern side, the interior was planned to be in keeping with its Scott Tallon Walker architecture. A 1970s-style living space combines both seating and dining areas and opens to a large south-facing terrace. “We divided the room visually by placing a large deep sofa by Orior in the centre, with two upright sofas either side of it defining the sitting space and the dining area behind,” says Lyons. “Every room should have different types of seating so whether you are just relaxing and watching television or you have people around, the space is functional and comfortable.” The sitting space is anchored by a large marble-topped coffee table in front of the fireplace and everything centres around this, as it can be reached from each seating option. In the dining area, a collection of works by Irish artists including Felim Egan and Charles Tyrrell hang on the wall above a Platner-style table. “We’ve been collecting for a long time and selected the pictures for their subject, colour and shape so they work together,” says Lyons. A limited palette including lemon, grey and muted orange creates a relaxed, restful space. Playing with scale and keeping furniture in proportion makes the space appear larger than it is: the oversized 1970s stainless steel and chrome lamp – found in one of the couple’s favourite shops, Ebury Trading in London – draws the eye and sheds great light. The couple also shop in Dublin: the lamp table is by Knoll from Niall Mullen Antiques, the rug from Oriental Rugs on Francis Street. Without the space to keep a real dog, they are making do with a realistic substitute from Rowell Design. TOP: The large linen-covered Orior sofa is flanked by a pair of herringbone wool Cappellini couches to create a smart sitting area. The giant coffee table was given to the couple by their friend, interior designer Sirin Lewendon, and many of the artworks are by other friends, including the photograph over the fireplace by Dragana Jurisic. The television is housed in an antique Chinese cabinet. ABOVE: John Kelly and Eoin Lyons of LyonsKelly. RIGHT: Watercolours by a friend, Antonia Campbell-Hughes, hang over an antique table, given to the couple by Lyons’ parents. FAR RIGHT: The embroidery by Joanne Hynes was a gift from the designer.
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DESIGN CREATING A SENSE OF PERMANENCE When golfer Shane Lowry and his fiancée Wendy Honner decided to buy their Victorian-style redbrick new build in south Dublin, they wanted a shell so the layout could be adapted to their needs and so they could specify exactly how they wanted the interior. They commissioned LyonsKelly to create a sense of permanence and to design an interior that would be a neutral backdrop onto which interesting pieces could be placed. “The brief for the interior was traditional with a kick. As young clients, they wanted it to be fun and vibrant, and they wanted guests to feel at ease so comfort was a priority.” To create the sense of tradition and permanence, herringbone oak floors were selected to run throughout the ground floor, their dark colour balancing the paler wall colours. LyonsKelly designed panelling with an Arts & Crafts simplicity for the walls: “Panelling brings depth,” says Lyons, “adding a traditional vibe, without being at all old-fashioned.” The panelling also allowed the designers to incorporate storage and to recess the television. The main living space is long, presenting the challenge of how to successfully divide it to include intimate seating and a dining area. The solution was to break up the sequence of spaces by placing two sofas in the middle, thus creating a central sitting area with the dining area at one end and an additional seating area at the opposite end of the room. The decoration here is about contrasts. There are simple linen curtains and the tables have rustic wood surfaces, with more glamorous brass lighting for sparkle. Colour is introduced through accessories – mustard cushions, green felt dining chairs and colourful vases and objects. Upstairs, the first floor comprises a luxe master suite with bedroom, dressing room and bathroom. The palette is grey and pale blue and cream with shots of colour in smaller items like the orange velvet chair. ^ TOP LEFT: The dressing room cabinetry designed by LyonsKelly. The shell chandelier is from Arteriors. TOP RIGHT: In the living room, the blue velvet armchair and footstool are from Cavey Interior Design and the curtains made by Mary Wrynne. The wall paint is Dove Tail by Farrow & Ball. MIDDLE: The sofas are covered in a soft Irishmade tweed by Stable. The brass cube pendant is by Visual Comfort. BOTTOM LEFT: In the hall, LyonsKelly-designed panelling and oak floors by Hardwood Flooring Company. The console is from Hedgeroe and the lamp by Porta Romano. BELOW RIGHT: The orange velvet chair is B&B Italia from Minima and the grey velvet bench is by Jonathan Adler.
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At home with perfection. Created with authentic materials. www.bulthaup-hanoverquay.ie Realm Concepts Ltd. The Waterfront. Hanover Quay. Dublin 2 Tel. 01 480 44 00. hello@realm.ie Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram @bulthaupHQ
HOUSE
A FABRIC AFFAIR For her own London home, Irish interior designer Sarah Chambers combines tradition and the unexpected, and has the patience to wait for what she wants PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX JAMES
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HOUSE
“I DON’T BUY ARTWORK FOR PEOPLE BECAUSE IT’S SUCH A PERSONAL THING.”
D
ublin-born Sarah Chambers left a career in international marketing to pursue a lifelong love of design. With years of experience as a director at London practice Carden Cunietti, she began her own business two years ago. She talks to us about personal and professional projects, what makes a house a comfortable home and how to inject some fun into it all. WHERE DID IT BEGIN? With a degree in International
Languages and Marketing from DCU, I moved to London when I was 21 and worked at Lehman Brothers for six
years. I’ve always loved fashion but felt it was too late to get into the industry; it’s funny thinking that now, I was only 30. With interior design there’s a greater balance between the creative and the practical which suited me better, so I took a course at Chelsea College of Art and Design. Carden Cunietti took me on for work experience where I stayed for twelve years before starting my own business. WAS THAT A CHALLENGING MOVE? I wanted more flexibility; with a nine-year old daughter and a husband who travels a lot, it’s nice to call your own shots. I had my own clients at Carden Cunietti and was used to running entire projects myself so it wasn’t a huge change. I resigned in 2014 when we moved to Boston for a year with my husband, an economics professor. Two clients were looking for help with projects at the same time so it all took off quite quickly. HOW DID YOU APPROACH THE DESIGN OF YOUR OWN HOME?
We bought a Victorian terrace house in Vauxhall, South London, in 2007. The size and location were the only things I liked about it so I didn’t feel bad about ripping everything out and starting again. We worked from the top down and by the time we got to the kitchen the money had run out. We installed a “holder” kitchen from IKEA until eight years later, Patrick McKenna of Dublin’s
Wabi Sabi designed the matte, black one I wanted. He also sourced the reeded glass you see in Irish pubs for the cabinets. WHAT IS THE MOST TRANSFORMATIVE PIECE IN YOUR LIVING ROOM? I love the piece hanging over the marble mantelpiece. I was in Paris and saw a photo by a Korean artist in a magazine produced by Rubelli. I rang the gallery and ordered a copy straightaway. Once that was in place, everything in the room popped. I don’t buy artwork for people because it’s such a personal thing but it makes a huge difference. WHAT SPARKED THE COLOUR THEME? A set of vintage Pyrex flamingo-pink bowls sourced in the US kick-started it. The chairs in the living room window are from a shop in Boston that I passed all OPPOSITE: Layered cape curtains and blinds, custom-made by London company Downers Design, were chosen for the warmth they bring to the living room. The sofa is from Bray Design. LEFT: When the house was purchased all original plasterwork in the living room was covered with plasterboard. Over the Arabescato Oro marble mantelpiece hangs Korean artwork, the inspiration for the colour scheme. ABOVE: Vintage Scandinavian table and chairs were picked up in an antiques shop in San Francisco.
T H E G L O S S interiors | Spring 2016 | 39
HOUSE LEFT: In collaboration with the client, the kitchen was designed by Patrick McKenna of Irish company Wabi Sabi with whom Chambers had worked on a previous project in Dublin. The stained black matte finish is softened by reeded glass panels that refract the light, and a shot of bold pink on the double-sided island. Antique brass handles complement antique brass lighting in the dining area and ripple-fold curtains prevent a “black box” effect looking into the garden at nighttime. BELOW FROM TOP: Chambers’ advice is to have fun with the guest bathroom and for her own, she chose a Schumacher paper in Imperial Trellis, purchased through Turnell & Gigon. The original, white master bed from Oly Studio was reupholstered in velvet by French textile brand Creations Metaphores from London’s Abbott and Boyd. Lamps from Porta Romana sit atop bedside tables from Arte Veneziana.
the time. After thinking of ways to copy them, I realised I should just buy those ones – upholstered in their original fabric – and have them shipped home. SOME ADVICE? People sometimes want everything to be brand new but I encourage them to have a few old pieces to work around – to bring comfort and for their sentimental value. My mother keeps an eye out for me in charity shops in Dublin and I look around antique markets in London. Vintage lighting is easy to mix in for example, and tends to be priced quite reasonably. The waterfall chandelier in my living room was a wedding present: a group of our friends collected money and I bought it in a London market. DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE FLOURISH? I really love fabrics; textiles and patterns are my strong point. I’m much happier doing living rooms and bedrooms than bathrooms; they’re less interesting to me, probably because there’s less fabric involved. In saying that, I had great fun with my guest bathroom which I modelled on an American powder-room. I really believe that a good interior design project involves layering – in my living room for example, we have cape curtains. The top layer is satin with fringing and underneath is a more matte fabric. FAVOURITE PROJECT? So far, it was my last for Carden Cunietti in 2014. A family home in Barcelona, for really brave clients who weren’t afraid to push boundaries and were up for anything. Crucially, they had a really great art collection. I’m working on an exciting project in a house in Wandsworth. People tend to go for white ceilings but we’re going with a blue and gold geometric pattern. ^ www.sarahchambersinteriors.co.uk
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“PEOPLE SOMETIMES WANT EVERYTHING TO BE BRAND NEW BUT I ENCOURAGE THEM TO HAVE A FEW OLD PIECES TO WORK AROUND.”
Maxalto | Kasthall | ClassiCon. Photo taken in Minimaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showroom
The Waterfront, Hanover Quay, Dublin 2 t + 353 1 6337716 www.minimahome.com
KITCHENS
KITCHEN RULES...
AND HOW TO BREAK THEM
There is no one-size-fitsall approach to designing a room in which to cook and gather. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about individual needs
T
he kitchen is arguably the most difficult room in the house to design, not least because it serves so many functions. As well as an efficient place to cook, the heart of the home needs to be an inviting space in which to convene, eat and entertain. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re designing from scratch or planning a refurbishment, the task to create the perfect space can feel daunting. But following a draconian set of rules is not the answer. Rather, take your own needs (and those of your family) into consideration and you can create a room that is as beautiful as it is practical.
1. RULE: TRADITIONAL STORAGE WORKS BEST IN REALITY: MODERN SOLUTIONS CAN BE PRACTICAL AND STYLISH Good modern kitchen designers offer so much more than just generic drawers and cabinets. One of the advantages of creating a bespoke kitchen is the opportunity to squeeze out every inch of available space in smart, stylish and unique ways. From clever window seating to built-in cookbook shelves to customised corner solutions to drawers so in tune to your needs that they have individual cubbies for everything from cutlery to bread, the possibilities are endless, and can be seamlessly concealed. Open shelving is having a moment too, offering a fun and interesting way to display glassware and collectibles.
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This custom-made kitchen from Neptune maximises storage yet looks casual. www.neptune.com
The combination of warm timber and sleek white cabinetry gives this Kube kitchen a contemporary feel.
2. RULE: CABINETRY SHOULD ALWAYS MATCH IN REALITY: CONTRASTING COLOURS CAN BE COOL Until relatively recently, it was a given that all cabinetry in the kitchen would match, whether wood or painted. But things are slowly changing as homeowners are becoming more adventurous. If you want to introduce some subtle colour without overpowering the room (think deep, muted shades of navy, grey, even green) consider a darker island or lower cabinets, which are becoming increasing popular. As well as anchoring the space, pairing a deeper hue with paler shades, or even white, will give the room a feeling of light and openness. You can achieve a similar look with different tones of wood too, adding personality and warmth without losing that feeling of cohesion.
Shades of white, grey and teal work together cohesively in this Nolte kitchen from McNally Kitchens.
T H E G L O S S interiors | Spring 2016 | 45
KITCHENS No island, no problem. A peninsula, like this one from Noel Dempsey Kitchens, is just as practical for cooking and entertaining.
3. RULE: AN ISLAND IS ESSENTIAL IN REALITY: A PENINSULA CAN WORK JUST AS WELL Although islands are currently de rigueur, not every room can accommodate one. If an island is too small, it will lack purpose and could potentially be a safety risk when there’s not enough clearance between opposing drawers and cabinet doors. Shoehorning an island into the wrong space can make a room look cluttered and obstruct the natural flow between zones. Alternatives to try include incorporating a peninsula (which can include appliances, storage and seating too), or looking to smaller, mobile pieces of furniture which can easily move between zones and even rooms.
4. RULE: YOU MUST CREATE A “WORK TRIANGLE” IN REALITY: LET THE SPACE DICTATE THE OPTIMAL WORKFLOW
This kitchen, by O’Connor Kitchens, has been designed to accomodate two cooks.
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While creating a perfect imaginary triangle connecting the sink, fridge and stove has certainly been tried and tested in its efficiency, it has its limitations. And there are plenty of alternatives available, depending on the size and shape of the room. As long as there is a clear and direct route between the three main work zones – preparation, cooking and clean up – you can experiment a bit. In a large kitchen, each of these areas can have smaller zones within, for example, a designated prep sink might be located within reach of the fridge and bin. If there are two cooks in the family, you can even create two triangles as long as there is only a crossover on one area. When designing a smaller, galley kitchen, having the sink, oven and fridge on the same wall may be the only option, but don’t despair. It can also be a very practical way to free up more worktop and cabinet space opposite. Whatever the shape and size if your room, a good designer will be able to identify any constraints and work to overcome them.
KITCHENS The island in this kitchen by The Design Yard has a Silestone quartz worktop.
The teak worktops in this kitchen by Andrew Ryan adds a Nordic feel.
5. RULE: WORKTOPS SHOULD BE STONE IN REALITY: THERE ARE NEW AND EXCITING MATERIALS OUT THERE The worktop you choose is likely to be a dominant focal point in your kitchen. Granite remains a popular choice in Ireland, as do some high-end stone composites and for aesthetics alone, there’s no denying that marble is exquisite (and very Instagram-friendly). Your worktop material needs to be durable, hygienic and easy to clean but stone is certainly not the only option. So what’s left? Stainless steel works well in industrial spaces and offers a professional effect, Corian is sleek and heat resistant, quartz is versatile and hygienic, concrete is bombproof, glass looks cool and contemporary, resin is affordable and timber adds warmth and texture (but requires yearly maintenance). One stylish idea is to mix two materials, for example marble on an island and beech or walnut elsewhere, to add a more personal feel. There are myriad options, once you think outside the block.
6. RULE: IT’S FINE TO CHOOSE YOUR APPLIANCES LAST
This new freestanding Blackboard edition fridge-freezer by Miele was designed with young families in mind.
IN REALITY: THEY SHOULD BE CONSIDERED IN THE PLANNING STAGES Thanks to constant innovation and advancements in technology, kitchen appliances have evolved from clunky eyesores into state of the art tools. And some, for example retro-style fridges, you may even want to display. Leave choosing yours until the last minute and you run the risk of missing out on some really clever devices, like the latest steam oven or dishwasher, due to space and budget constraints. Take the cooker hood. What was once an obstruction at eye level can now lift from your worktop at the touch of a button, extracting vapours and odours with a smart and efficient downdraft system. Versatile wine conditioning units now come in various sizes while built-in coffee machines (that you can programme from an app) are convenient and free up valuable worktop space.
This bespoke kitchen by Andrew Ryan makes the most of a narrow space.
T H E G L O S S interiors | Spring 2016 | 47
KITCHENS
This ultra-glossy kitchen from Cash & Carry Kitchens comes alive in a bright room.
7. RULE: STICK TO YOUR ORIGINAL PLAN, NO MATTER WHAT IN REALITY: LET YOUR DESIGN EVOLVE ORGANICALLY The importance of being flexible during any design or refurbishment project cannot be overstated. As the venture progresses from a two-dimensional drawing to a real structure, there will be always be obstacles to overcome, spaces feeling tighter than you’d anticipated or materials or colours that suddenly look different once they’re in the room. Remain adaptive and open-minded, and trust in the advice of your designer. Once you allow the design to evolve organically, you can be guaranteed satisfaction with the end result.
Your original plan may not include a wine cooler, as seen in this kitchen by Newcastle Design, but who wouldn’t like one?
8. RULE: SEATING MUST BE FREESTANDING IN REALITY: A BANQUETTE CAN SAVE SPACE AND ADD STORAGE
This stylish breakfast nook, created by Hayburn & Co, is an informal alternative to a table and chairs.
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As well as providing a cosy and comfortable spot to eat, banquette seating in a kitchen can give new purpose to all manner of awkward or tricky spaces. Whether built in to an island, sitting snuggly in an alcove or making the most of a bay window, it is worth considering as a smart alternative to a traditional table and chairs, especially for casual gathering. Upholstered seating will also provide an opportunity to bring some semipermanent pattern and texture into the room. If space is at a premium, a banquette can increase storage, with under-seat options ranging from drawers to open cubbies. Lighting is one important consideration while in the planning stages: it should clearly define the space as well as being ambient. A good kitchen designer will advise. ^
ADDRESS BOOK 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 HAYBURN & CO Galgorm Road, Ballymena, Co Antrim 0044 28 2587 1442 www.hayburn.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
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