When interior designer Tullio Orlandi of Tullio Orlandi Design first saw this home in Adare, Co Limerick, his impression was that it was essentially a blank slate. “It had no internal finishes and an unfinished feel,” he explains. “The layout was disconnected, with small, separate rooms that didn’t maximise the available space. It lacked natural light, and the interiors felt cold and uninviting. The goal was to create a cohesive, functional design that not only brought warmth and character to the home but also improved the overall flow and usability for modern living.”
As well as a space that felt more open and flowing, the owners wanted the space to feel warm and inviting, and have a cohesiveness throughout the home. “Functionality was a key priority,” Tullio says. “They wanted smart storage solutions, well-defined living areas, and a layout that worked seamlessly for both daily life and entertaining. Above all, they were looking for a space that balanced style and comfort, creating a modern yet timeless home.”
In the kitchen, the off-white units and antique brass hardware allow the main focus to be on the marble surfaces we sourced from Leinster Stone. The veining in the marble was even used as inspiration for accent colors in the living room, including the deep burgundy bookcase. “The living room maintained the neutral base of Slaked Lime,” Tullio explains, “but we introduced a new colour palette inspired by the client’s art collection. Denim blue drapes frame the fireside windows, while a deep burgundy bookcase complements the marble’s veining, bringing in both warmth and a sense of richness.”
More colour is introduced in the formal sitting room, where Nether Red from Little Greene provides a contrast to the more neutral spaces. “This stunning color was chosen to match and complement both existing and new furniture, with a standout piece being a large-scale ottoman upholstered in Pierre Frey velvet,” Tullio says.