Inside Out: Into the blue, light touches and scandi chic
From deep coastal navy to sky-washed pastels, it has a versatile vibe and it's making waves in every space.
Whether you're seeking calm, comfort, or a splash of seasonal elegance, blue is the colour to embrace.
True blue
Psychologically, blue is known to bring feelings of peace, clarity and relaxation. In fact, studies have shown that blue can even help lower heart rate and reduce stress, so whether you're working, winding down, or simply putting your feet up, it's a colour that truly earns its place in every room.
Classic silhouettes meet contemporary country stripes in the charming DFS Porthleven sofa collection, designed exclusively with Joules.
Joules Narbeth sofa, DFS.
Sink into irresistibly soft, plump cushions, with nautical-inspired stripes lined with chic contrast piping for a homely, heritage-inspired feel, such as the Joules Portleven Grand sofa, exclusive to DFS (€2,489), Dfs.ie.
Want to go fully blue? The Narberth sofa is a great place to start. With its clean, classic lines and soft blue upholstery, it's the perfect blend of comfort and timeless style — ideal for laid-back lounging or catching up with friends. If you're craving a seasonal refresh, blue might just be your colour.
Keep it lit
For those long summer evenings when the sun sets late but you want to keep it lit (in every sense) and the party going, think luxe-look lamps.
We've spotted our favourites of the season at Orianab.com and Woodies.ie — these set a tone.
For a soft, layered look, bring in accents from Oriana B. Its range of blue-toned lighting — including midnight glass lamps and indigo ceramics — adds just the right glow to your space, like the Blue Base table lamp with pleated shade (€250) or the double-brass wall light (€225).
Woodie's Neto three-light diner bar, brass and clear glass, €150.
And Woodie's new lighting collection offers some super pieces. From natural materials like rattan and wood to sculptural statement pieces and vintage-inspired designs, it has something for every space.
Woodie's Argo black ceiling light, €100.
Standout pieces include the Rubia rattan floor lamp (€150) for a warm, organic touch, the Luga geometric table lamp (€65) for a bold, modern look, and the Morar ribbed-glass table lamp (€60) for a hint of art deco elegance.
Even younger interior design lovers' rooms get a playful upgrade with options like the Mika dinosaur neon light (€10).
Whether you're refreshing a single corner or reimagining an entire space, Woodie's lighting collection is designed to brighten up every home. Available now in stores and online at Woodies.ie.
Scandi chic
Whether you're updating a bedroom or a home office or anything in between, and if a Scandi look is what you seek, this month Danish retailer Jysk has a furniture sale offering up to 60% savings.
For bedroom updates, the Vellerup wardrobe (RRP €439, now €340) offers generous storage space paired with a sleek and modern look. Complement it with Nordby bedside table (RRP €99, now €40), ideal for keeping essentials close by and maintaining an organised space.
Jysk dining set.
Those of us working or studying from home can benefit from Tamholt desk (RRP €169, now €67), which offers a neat and efficient workspace, paired with Vojens gaming chair (RRP €249, now €100) designed to provide support and comfort for extended periods of use.
The natural tones of Vedde dining table (RRP €269, now €135) bring warmth to dining spaces, perfect for shared meals with family and friends. Pair it with the elegant Purhus dining chair (RRP €149, now €59) for a sophisticated dining experience.
Jysk Udsbjerg armchair.
Unwind in the cosy Udsbjerg armchair (RRP €189, now €95), which adds a chilled and welcoming accent to any living room.
Pair it with the minimalist Dokkedal coffee table (RRP €129, now €50), ideal for both casual gatherings and relaxing evenings.
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Irish Examiner
4 days ago
- Irish Examiner
Inside Out: Into the blue, light touches and scandi chic
Blue has soared in interior designers' estimation as the season's most soothing shade. From deep coastal navy to sky-washed pastels, it has a versatile vibe and it's making waves in every space. Whether you're seeking calm, comfort, or a splash of seasonal elegance, blue is the colour to embrace. True blue Psychologically, blue is known to bring feelings of peace, clarity and relaxation. In fact, studies have shown that blue can even help lower heart rate and reduce stress, so whether you're working, winding down, or simply putting your feet up, it's a colour that truly earns its place in every room. Classic silhouettes meet contemporary country stripes in the charming DFS Porthleven sofa collection, designed exclusively with Joules. Joules Narbeth sofa, DFS. Sink into irresistibly soft, plump cushions, with nautical-inspired stripes lined with chic contrast piping for a homely, heritage-inspired feel, such as the Joules Portleven Grand sofa, exclusive to DFS (€2,489), Want to go fully blue? The Narberth sofa is a great place to start. With its clean, classic lines and soft blue upholstery, it's the perfect blend of comfort and timeless style — ideal for laid-back lounging or catching up with friends. If you're craving a seasonal refresh, blue might just be your colour. Keep it lit For those long summer evenings when the sun sets late but you want to keep it lit (in every sense) and the party going, think luxe-look lamps. We've spotted our favourites of the season at and — these set a tone. For a soft, layered look, bring in accents from Oriana B. Its range of blue-toned lighting — including midnight glass lamps and indigo ceramics — adds just the right glow to your space, like the Blue Base table lamp with pleated shade (€250) or the double-brass wall light (€225). Woodie's Neto three-light diner bar, brass and clear glass, €150. And Woodie's new lighting collection offers some super pieces. From natural materials like rattan and wood to sculptural statement pieces and vintage-inspired designs, it has something for every space. Woodie's Argo black ceiling light, €100. Standout pieces include the Rubia rattan floor lamp (€150) for a warm, organic touch, the Luga geometric table lamp (€65) for a bold, modern look, and the Morar ribbed-glass table lamp (€60) for a hint of art deco elegance. Even younger interior design lovers' rooms get a playful upgrade with options like the Mika dinosaur neon light (€10). Whether you're refreshing a single corner or reimagining an entire space, Woodie's lighting collection is designed to brighten up every home. Available now in stores and online at Scandi chic Whether you're updating a bedroom or a home office or anything in between, and if a Scandi look is what you seek, this month Danish retailer Jysk has a furniture sale offering up to 60% savings. For bedroom updates, the Vellerup wardrobe (RRP €439, now €340) offers generous storage space paired with a sleek and modern look. Complement it with Nordby bedside table (RRP €99, now €40), ideal for keeping essentials close by and maintaining an organised space. Jysk dining set. Those of us working or studying from home can benefit from Tamholt desk (RRP €169, now €67), which offers a neat and efficient workspace, paired with Vojens gaming chair (RRP €249, now €100) designed to provide support and comfort for extended periods of use. The natural tones of Vedde dining table (RRP €269, now €135) bring warmth to dining spaces, perfect for shared meals with family and friends. Pair it with the elegant Purhus dining chair (RRP €149, now €59) for a sophisticated dining experience. Jysk Udsbjerg armchair. Unwind in the cosy Udsbjerg armchair (RRP €189, now €95), which adds a chilled and welcoming accent to any living room. Pair it with the minimalist Dokkedal coffee table (RRP €129, now €50), ideal for both casual gatherings and relaxing evenings.
The Irish Sun
24-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Sainsbury's knocks 50% off ‘stomach hiding' dress that ‘looks way more expensive' & is a flattering pick for holidays
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Irish Examiner
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- Irish Examiner
Save or Splurge? We take a seat in two striking armchairs
SAVE The bright and beautiful pink Retro chair upholstered in plush velvet has the hallmarks of mid-century design influences with angled arms and legs and double button detail; €449, DFS. SPLURGE Sloping arms give character to the Rust velvet armchair and extra comfort for reading and chats, its simple design making it an option for modern and period interiors; €850, Oriana B.
