“The pandemic pushed interior design consultations online”, says interior designer Arlene McIntyre, “but we were already there.” When lockdown happened in March 2020, McIntyre, founder of Ventura, was juggling multiple projects in multiple locations – among them Dublin, London, Portugal, Jersey. “As with every other profession, interior designers had to adjust to new ways of doing business. We had to keeping projects moving,” says McIntyre.

“During this time of uncertainty, I wanted to ensure our team and clients could feel comfortable and reassured that business is moving forward and their projects are being cared for efficiently. Our typical presentations are in-person meetings at the office to review all finishes, fabrics and selections – it’s usually a very tactile and interactive experience. To keep that spirit alive, we post sample packages with paint swatches, fabrics, rugs, then put together digital design presentations with drawings and images.” McIntyre then reviews the presentation with the client on platforms like Zoom or Facetime. “I can answer any of their design questions or concerns.” Similarly, her team uses video chats to communicate regularly. “It’s normal for people to change their minds about what they want all the time, but it’s harder when you aren’t meeting face to face, so we have to be extra-flexible.”

When travel restrictions came into force, McIntyre’s client, media personality Vogue Williams, also had multiple projects on the go, plus the birth of her second child on the horizon. McIntyre was orchestrating the merger of Vogue’s London apartment with a neighbouring one, and designing her new home in Howth, Co Dublin. Two homes, two cities, and no possibility of a site visit, a furniture showroom recce or a meeting to collaborate over paint choices or decorating decisions. Surely a challenge?

“Vogue was already super-busy and very squeezed for time. When I couldn’t travel to London to meet her on site and she couldn’t travel to see her new Dublin home, we realised we would have to review and approve design plans via Zoom or Skype.”

So began months of meetings, all virtual, to preview moodboards and floor plans, discuss paint choices and fabrics and furniture selection. McIntyre and her team had already developed a simple process that helped her structure the decision-making and keep everything on track. “If you can’t meet a client in person, you have to allow time, and be patient.” The chemistry between McIntyre and Vogue made everything easier. “When you have a rapport with a client, it’s a very rewarding process.” She describes Vogue as ball of sunshine, exuding positive energy. “I love her personality.”

Vogue’s detached modern house on an elevated site is sunny and bright, and like its owner, it has a happy vibe. “The house evolved into a modern Hamptons-style design,” says McIntyre. “Howth has such a powerful seascape, I felt it had to be represented.” Vogue says the sea is the element that will entice husband Spencer Mathews to spend more time in Ireland. She has designated the sitting room (unfinished so not shown) “Spenny space”. The kitchen living space is where Vogue will incorporate work – including on-the-spot filming and podcasts – with family life. It’s a backdrop for the colourful art and accessories that Vogue loves to collect: “She likes a showstopper,” says McIntyre, “she would suddenly reveal a new purchase that we needed to find a spot for. These pieces would reflect her character and inject her personality into her home – and this is what it’s all about.”

Photographs by Piotr Zawistowski/50HZ Photography