Welcome

It’s never been more important to have a warm, welcoming interior space to spend time in and this issue we focus on cosy living spaces both inside and out. There’s plenty of inspiration on how to create laid-back living areas where you can truly switch off and unwind. From seating and soft furnishings to heating options, we’ve pulled together everything you need.

Talking of things you need, we have also caught up with a selection of Ireland’s leading interior brands, independent retailers and interior designers to ask what their top pieces are for the year ahead. From decorative accessories to sofas, there’s a fantastic selection to tempt you in 2021.

You might also be tempted by what you see in our three readers’ homes, one of which belongs to Northern Irish Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea and his wife Tatia, whose flair for interior design and Aussie roots, are evident throughout their Co. Antrim home. We also visit Seamus and Gillian’s new build in Carlow, which has helped Gillian achieve her dream of developing her own interior retail business and in Dublin we see how Darran and Eoin have successfully transformed their terrace home into their perfect pad.

As well as focusing on comforting interiors, we’ve also got 11-pages of winter warming recipes from some of Ireland’s leading chefs and cooks. From a triple cheese toastie and fish pie to salted caramel whiskey bread and butter pudding, there’s plenty of sweet and savoury options to get you through the colder winter months.

Then, if you need to work off a few pounds from all this delicious food, we’ve highlighted a few of Ireland’s best walks for you to try. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to get your step count in with a bit of retail therapy, then it’s time to hit the antique shops that have come highly recommended this issue.