This project in Douglas, Co Cork was for a young couple who wanted a light and airy feel for their new build home …
For Geri O’Toole, founder of Geri’s Designs, comfort comes from a timeless style using natural, warm woods, texture, diverse materiality and classic touches like panelling and moulding, as well as a sensitivity to the subtle touches that make home home. “Do it once, and do it well,” is her mantra. “Most of our clients are decorating their ‘forever’ home; they want it to be relaxing, a sanctuary and to stand the test of time.”
In the living room, skirtings, walls, joinery and ceilings are all painted in Little Greene’s Putty, which makes for a super-cosy effect, windows are dressed in textured voiles (Mark Alexander) and concealed LED lighting in the joinery creates a cinema-like ambiance.
Geri’s father was involved in the antiques and furniture world, her late mother was an interior designer, so from an early age she was exposed to beautiful houses. A career in the field beckoned after her parents established Browsers Interiors in Co Limerick. Today, she and her team work from the same location, with projects underway all around the country as well as in the UK and the US.
Arched bookcases add character.
“Our work is always client-led,” says Geri. “I love working on a project from concept to completion, forming a relationship with the client and achieving the outcome they want.” This project in Douglas, Co Cork is for a young couple who wanted a light and airy feel for their new build. “It can be a challenge to give a new build life and personality,” she says. “Here it was all about adding luxurious details and finishes and tactile elements to soften the interior.”
The entrance hall with striped stair runner.
In the sun room, roman blinds and soft furnishings soften the space. The marble-topped table is from Hedgeroe Home.
Geri is refreshingly unambiguous about the cost of the services she provides: “I am clear from the get-go – there are no surprises. Once we deal with that aspect, we are free to build a rapport with the client, and that’s where my passion lies.” www.geridesigns.ie @geri_designs
Restful neutrals in the bedroom.
The Arundel table is by Neptune, the low-profile dining chairs from Rock Hill Interiors, Blackrock, Co Dublin; the pendant light was sourced by Geri Designs.
Geri O’Toole is generous with great tips and interesting info on sources and suppliers, earning her a loyal following on social media. This wood-framed chair by Flamant is from Browsers Interiors.
