Home: Five fabulous finds for our lives and living spaces
Selecting from the variety online is like choosing artwork to display perpendicular to your personal Picassos.
Kukoon Ruskin Aqua.
Right now we're loving the company's suggestion to 'make your garden your new favourite room' — by planting an outdoor rug front and fore, naturally.
See, while we may have the patio barbecue kit sorted, it's this extra touch that'll make that zone sizzle (sorry!). Flatweave materials ensure these 'superheroes' of the rug world are moisture-resistant and quick-drying; free delivery on orders in Ireland and Britain; see Kukoonrugs.
Designs on Dublin
Kerry man Bryan O'Sullivan will be among the world-famous names showcasing how design shapes our environment. Originally from Kenmare, London-based interior design superstar Bryan joins Shelley McNamara and Yvonne Farrell of Grafton Architects, Katie Harbison, New York, Paul McClean, LA, Suzie McAdam, Roisin Lafferty, and Maria MacVeigh, Dublin, for the inaugural Design Week Dublin (DWD), May 19 to May 25.
Design Week Dublin, May 19-May 25, at Dublin's Docklands.
Bryan's talk is on May 20, at 9.30am, at Anantara The Marker. Tickets for DWD are from €20; see Designweekdublin.
PurePanel from Havwoods.
Drama and depth
See how the kitchen panelling by Havwoods pictured here adds drama and depth. The layered construction of engineered wood also boosts its durability, says John Flannery, Havwoods; Havwoods.
Spirit of success
The traditional Victorian-inspired glass bottle that contains Muckross Wild Irish Gin looks so appealing you'd almost be tempted to own it for its ornamental qualities alone — almost, we say. The botanical blend within wowed judges at the Berlin International Spirits Competition who named the craft tipple (€49.95 for 70cl) as their gold winner.
Winner: Muckross Wild Irish Gin.
Hawthorn, blackthorn, heather, rosehip, rosemary, bitter orange, grapefruit, juniper, angelica, and coriander are placed in the still at the same time. Bottled at 40% ABV, it's proved a surefire recipe for success — also recently scooping the title Ireland's Gin of the Year.
Andrea Kissane established Muckross Wild Irish Spirits in her native Killarney along with Derry man Martin Wray, who has made the Kingdom his home. 'We were thrilled to hear that Muckross Irish Gin was a double winner,' says Andrea.
'We are a new spirit from an ancient Kingdom, and it is this fusion of modern ideas with the timelessness of our home that makes our mellow, elegant gin so special.' See Muckrossirishgin.
Hoxton sofa.
Pink power
Who doesn't adore a pop of pink? The French Connection Hoxton sofa in Rose sits nicely in any spring/summer set-up; exclusive to DFS €1,659; Dfs.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Irish Independent
16-07-2025
- Irish Independent
Today's top TV and streaming picks: The Story of Zak Moradi, The Summer I Turned Pretty and Independence Day: Resurgence
Shark: Celebrity Infested Waters Virgin Media One, 9pm Five-part reality series in which the likes of Lenny Henry, Helen George, Rachel Riley and Ross Noble try to conquer their fear of sharks by going swimming with them off the coast of the Bahamas. NORAID: Irish America and the IRA RTÉ One, 9.35pm The concluding episode focuses on those who wanted to do more than simply offer financial support to the families of prisoners. Martin Galvin features again, this time due to his efforts to persuade US presidential hopeful Bill Clinton to grant a visa to Sinn Féin's Gerry Adams. The Eclipse TG4, 10.30pm David Levy adds his expertise to the investigation, but upsets Johanna and Manue by suggesting that their children, Angèle and Luca, may know more about the case than they're willing to admit. He couldn't be right, could he? Home – The Story of Zak Moradi RTÉ One, 10.35pm Moving documentary charting the life of Zak, a young man born in an Iraqi camp on the first day of the Gulf War in 1991. He and his family describe their efforts to build a new home in Carrick-on-Shannon, where Moradi's skill as a hurler has helped him settle into the community. Independence Day: Resurgence Film4, 6.45pm Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman return for this belated sequel to the 1996 sci-fi blockbuster. Unfortunately, the world is under threat from another alien menace, and this time, thanks to the invaders' advances in technology, the human race may not be able to save itself. The Summer I Turned Pretty Prime Video, streaming now The third and final season (well, Belly is pretty much a full-blown adult at this juncture) kicks off with a two-episode premiere. The 11-episode season will continue weekly, wrapping up with its last instalment on September 17. Trainwreck: Balloon Boy Netflix, streaming now Remember Balloon Boy? Back in 2009, a man from Colorado rang the authorities claiming his homemade spaceship had blown away with his six-year-old son inside. If you don't know the story, you can probably guess the rest. Apocalypse in the Tropics Netflix, streaming now Where does governance end and doctrine begin? To put it another way, at what point do the lines blur between democratic rule and religious rule? This isn't an anatomy of what's devolving in North America right now, but rather what's already happened in South America. In her new documentary, Brazilian filmmaker Petra Costa returns with a penetrating look at how Christian evangelical movements have gained powerful influence over Brazil's political system. With remarkable access to both sitting president Lula and former president Bolsonaro — plus one of Brazil's most prominent televangelists — the film dives into the spiritual and strategic alliances shaping modern Brazil. What emerges is a tense portrait of a nation where apocalyptic beliefs mix with political ambition. Costa, known for her Oscar-nominated The Edge of Democracy, again captures a country in flux with raw honesty and clarity. One Night In Idaho Prime Video, streaming now In late 2022, a fatal stabbing attack involving four university students rocked a small Idaho town, drawing national attention. An explosion of social media sleuthing, a cross-country manhunt, a dramatic arrest, and a looming trial made this crime one of the most high-profile stories of the last decade. Foundation AppleTV+, streaming now Season 3 returns to Apple, with new episodes dropping every Friday through to September 12. Inspired by Isaac Asimov's celebrated books, the saga follows exiles fighting to restore civilisation as an empire collapses. The Crossbow Cannibal Prime Video, streaming now Keeping things super light on Prime Video this week, we also have a profile of Stephen Griffiths, who created his own deadly persona in the hope of following in the footsteps of his idol — serial killer Peter Sutcliffe. Fifteen years after Griffiths's arrest, this documentary revisits one of Britain's darkest criminal cases. National Geographic dives into (apologies) the legacy of a legendary film with this Laurent Bouzereau documentary, tracing its journey from book to enduring pop culture phenomenon. If the tween in your life has been counting down the days, they'll probably already know that Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires is also now available (be warned, it's a musical). Oppenheimer Netflix, streaming now Finally, the wait is over. Anyone who failed to catch it in the cinema back in the heady summer of 2023 can now view it on whatever device they please. Speaking of German-related drama, Brick, an atmospheric number with Danny Boyle vibes, is also available. Building The Band Netflix, streaming now If The Circle and The Voice procreated and were imbued in a cocoon of cringe. If this is too much schmlatz for you, then the second season of 1923 might be a better fit.
The Irish Sun
08-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
‘I didn't expect that', says ex- RTE star Bryan Dobson as he reveals ‘interesting change' in life following retirement
FORMER RTE presenter Bryan Dobson has revealed the "unexpected" change his life has had since leaving the national broadcaster. The veteran newsman after a historical 37 years on the air with RTE. Advertisement 2 Bryan Dobson retired from RTE in May 2024 Credit: Fran Veale 2 Bryan has been spending quality time with his family Since his retirement, Bryan has taken time to unwind and spend more quality time with his loved ones. To his surprise, the 65-year-old has admitted that he "does not miss" the "buzz" of the newsroom. In a recent interview with the Despite having a consistent routine with the broadcaster for over four decades, Dobson is basking in his new found "freedom". Advertisement READ MORE IN BRYAN DOBSON He added: "With the world news so chaotically fast now, I do follow the news, but I don't miss it from the point of view of being a reporter. "I really have managed to shut that door in professional terms." However, the TV presenter did share one "unexpected" change to his life since exiting the station. Bryan said: "In the past, I would have listened to the news as a journalist, working the angles, but now I tend to listen to it as a citizen and voter. Advertisement MOST READ IN THE IRISH SUN "That's been an interesting change. I didn't expect that." The esteemed reporter has also been cherishing the extra quality time he's been able to spend with his new granddaughter, Lucy, who was born in January. Bryan Dobson opens up on grief As well as more family time, Dobson also returned to a long-standing passion - sailing. The Advertisement While Bryan is clearly soaking up all his spare time, the star still has a selection of projects in the works. DOBBO'S TUNE Chatting on Radio 1 with Oliver Callan, he spoke briefly about a Bryan also revealed that he had recently paid a visit to the Kabin Studios in record their songs . While there, he recorded a song with two Kabin Crew members, Darren Stewart and Aaron Hennessy, also known as MC Tiny and MC Bucky - for his song, Big News. Advertisement RTE debuted the track today on Oliver's show and shared it to their Premiering the song, they wrote: "Ladies and Gentlemen, Dobbo. Big News by Bryan Dobson and The Kabin studio."
Irish Examiner
30-06-2025
- Irish Examiner
Caoimhe McGinley: 'I had imposter syndrome when I moved into my house'
It's been some voyage — in every sense. After spending 10 years living in the Middle East, where she'd worked as a teacher, Caoimhe McGinley returned to her hometown of Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, to break ground on a self-build. No sooner had she touched down than the Instagram account she started to chart her 'house journey' took off — @thebighillhouse is now an online community with almost 160,000 followers. But let's reverse the magic carpet a little to hover over that fateful move-in date, Christmas Eve, December 24, 2011 — how did Caoimhe feel as she approached the front door of The Big Hill House? 'I cried my eyes out,' she tells Home. The Big Hill House. 'I was two weeks post-partum, had packed the four kids into the car at my parents', drove out their lane and in our lane. I would say it was an anti-climax, incredibly emotional, and I had imposter syndrome in the house for the first year or so. It didn't feel real.' It's that raw honesty, as well as all Caoimhe's sense of fun and glamour, that appeals to her followers and draws us in whenever she posts online. She tells it like it is. Caoimhe McGinley in her hallway. And, as a mum of young children (and a pet parent of a cocker spaniel), Caoimhe knows only too well that spills and splashes are part of life's Technicolour tapestry. The popular content creator has had many partnerships with top home brands, including designers Sadie Smith, Frances McBain and Jacqueline Rooney. This week, Caoimhe rolled out a vibrant collection in collaboration with leading Irish rug retailer Kukoon, with limited-edition pieces in her signature style incorporating her love for travel. 'Caoimhe's rugs are full of stories,' says Clare Walsh, Kukoon's creative director. 'Some evoke feelings of being in a Middle Eastern souk, while others transport you to the golden beaches of Byron Bay. They simultaneously spark memories of past trips and inspire more adventures to come.' Clare is one of the thousands who followed Caoimhe's online journey, which is how the latest collab came about: 'Caoimhe's house is incredibly stylish and her interior design skills are remarkable, but what always stands out for me is that her house is a home. It's not a collection of rooms where her children aren't allowed to have fun.' Interior design has, adds Caoimhe, always 'been a quiet thread running through my life': 'As a child, I was the one rearranging furniture for fun or collecting home magazines for inspiration but it was the self-build that brought that passion to life in a tangible, meaningful way. Designing a space from the ground up gave me a deeper appreciation for the details: how a room feels, flows, and supports everyday living.' The limited edition of six designs described as 'premium and affordable', are soft, washable and woven from recycled materials and come in several sizes and colours Q&A with Caoimhe Where is your happy space at home? In my kitchen, with the children, sitting at the island. How would you describe your home/interiors? Our home is a reflection of timeless comfort and thoughtful design — where every corner invites connection, and every piece tells a story. It's family-welcoming at its core: cosy seating that draws people together, a kitchen that's the heart of daily life, and spaces designed to grow with us. Who shares your home? My four children, three boys and a girl and a cocker spaniel called Coby. Favourite glow-up? Seasonal accessories — cushions and throws. When did you build? We broke ground July 2018 and moved in December 2011. How did you feel? Blessed. It was a dream come true building our own home. What's the biggest challenge about a self-build? Affording it! What was surprisingly easy, and is there anything you'd do differently? Having good tradesmen made all the difference in a successful self-build. I would [like to] have one room wider, but overall, I'm happy with what we achieved. Any lifestyle inspiration from your time in the Middle East? Yes, for sure. We have the famous 'bum gun' or bum hose — also known as douche shower kit. We have art on our walls and a lot of our rugs that have Middle Eastern design, and that played a large role in my collection with Kukoon. Why do you think interiors and home renovation create such interest in Ireland today? In Ireland, our homes have always been at the heart of who we are — places of welcome, warmth, and storytelling. In recent years, especially during covid, there's been a growing appreciation for the power of interiors and renovation, not just for aesthetics, but for creating spaces that reflect our values, personalities, and way of life. Caoimhe's bedroom. With more people spending time at home, we've become more intentional about how our spaces support us emotionally and practically. There's also a strong tradition in Ireland of making the most of what we have — of bringing character, history, and soul into every room. Renovating a home isn't just about updating it; it's about honouring its story while shaping it to suit modern family life. That balance of old and new, of personal and functional, really resonates with us. Your best bargain ever? My four kitchen island stools from Loaf. I got them at less than half price from a lady in England. Biggest extravagance? Our staircase — but worth it. Favourite colour? Green. Do you paint your own living space? I painted the entire house myself from base coat to finished colours. Do you enjoy cooking, and if so, what's your signature dish? Yes, I love a prawn linguine. Dream dinner guests? My family and friends, all around the same table. What is your key design advice when choosing flooring, rugs or furniture? Ultimately, choose with intention. Ask: Will this last? Will it grow with us? Does it make this space feel like home? Always start with how you want the space to feel, not just how you want it to look. What are you working on right now? My new rug collection with Kukoon; it is incredible, and I am hoping it will lead to more exciting collaborations in the future. Read More How a former Youghal office was turned into a stylish home with sea views and smart storage
