IMAGE Interiors spring/summer is out now! Find out what’s inside…

No matter how many years roll around, I’m never prepared for how inordinately joyful spring’s stretching out of days, and slowly creeping-up temperatures make me. Suddenly, I want to be outside at every opportunity, and crave greenery and light in my home to give the feeling of it when I can’t be.

In this issue, there are plenty of spaces that invite the outdoors in, in both big and small ways. Whether that’s a modern take on the Irish farmhouse, with large windows looking out over the surrounding Ards Peninsula countryside (and an occasional chicken wandering into the kitchen), or the coastal Co Down period home that has been given a sleek extension to take in more of its beautiful gardens.

In the city, where every metre is precious, inviting nature indoors feels perhaps even more of a luxury – discover an ingenious Dublin cottage that has been reconfigured to include connections to the sky, and has multiple planting opportunities as a key part of the design. Or tour a mews that makes its small courtyard garden feel like another room, adding light and lush views to its most-used spaces.

Elsewhere, we’re taking inspiration from wandering through meadows of wildflowers, the serenity of the forest floor, and pottering around a vegetable patch on our mood pages. Michelle Hanley has found Ireland’s most gorgeous lakeside stays, for a break where you’re guaranteed water views; while Nathalie Marquez Courtney has captured the bright charm of a Burren retreat that’s all about slowing down, and connecting with the surroundings. Or if you’re simply in need of inspiration for your own outdoor space, find ideas with our edit of garden furniture and accessories.

Find IMAGE Interiors spring/summer in store now, click here to buy online, or subscribe here.