The Book of the Homeless, edited by Edith Wharton in 1916, was a fundraising effort to help refugees and children in Europe during the First World War. It was Wharton’s idea to ask artists, writers and poets to contribute an original piece. At this time Wharton had already written nine novels and would go on to become the first female Pulitzer Prize winner, in 1921. Her literary success and influence allowed her to approach her good friend Henry James as well as Walter Gay, John Singer Sargent, Rupert Brooke, Thomas Hardy, Igor Stravinsky, WB Yeats, and 50 other writers and artists. In the same spirit, and inspired by a new book published by Rizzoli: Home: A Celebration, Notable Voices Reflect on the Meaning of Home, we asked contributors to share their interpretation of home, its meaning and importance. 

Minnie Peters, Interior Designer: Home Is … Where The Dogs Are

There is nothing nicer after a long day at the office when I open my gates and see my four rescue dogs barking excitedly at the window to greet me. During lockdown one of the many perks was being able to spend time with my four-legged friends while working from home. The only problem was during online meetings and design consultations – when I move they move, so there is no hiding place! During my meetings I lived in hope that our resident squirrel would not show his face which always sends our dogs into a frenzy of howling at the window! www.minniepeters.com 

Carolyn Donnelly, Designer: Home Is … Where The Flowers Are

Home to me is a place of comfort and calm that I love to fill with plants and flowers. A place where I can be myself. Where I am surrounded by my family and all those small things most precious to me accumulated over the years … things worn and in familiar colours. I love cushions, throws, framed art, books, old photos and collectibles gifted to me or gathered over time at bric a brac stalls, fêtes and markets in warmer countries. Things that hold memories that mark the passing of time and that make my space a place that fits me well … www.dunnesstores.com

Monica Walsh, Designer: Home Is … A Feeling

Growing up in Ireland and having spent most of my adult life in Canada, I have grown detached from the idea of home as a place. My latest collection for Cobblers Lane [the slow fashion label Walsh launched] is called “Postcards Home” and drew inspiration from my past adventures, especially in Australia. A trip filled with a sense of freedom on the road. Now, for me home is a feeling. It’s all about the intangibles – being surrounded by those you love and the experiences you share with them, whether that’s camping in a tent on the side of the Andes with my best friend, exploring ancient ruins in Montenegro with my fiancé, driving along the Great Ocean Road, or simply sitting around a campfire with my family. www.cobblerslane.com