This stunning Connemara home makes the most of its incredible views with earthy tones and organic textures
Interior designer Geri O’Toole has created a bright, relaxed space that feels totally in tune with its beautiful surroundings.
Set in a picturesque part of Connemara, this home benefitted from high ceilings and lots of natural light, and its owner brought in interior designer Geri O’Toole of Geri Designs to create a design that worked with these features.
As the client lives overseas, Geri explains, much of the planning was done remotely, over calls and messages in the early stages of the project. They were looking for a space that was light and bright, yet interesting.
“The client was very open to ideas so she was great to work with,” Geri says. “She also really knows what she likes and was decisive, which makes a great combination with a designer as you can make decisions and move on them and then move onto other areas.”
Geri explains that she wanted to make the ceiling height in the main living area a real focal point of her design.
“We added some panelling and a beautiful lantern light to accentuate the height.” This space is perfectly balanced with large-scale furniture and artwork that makes this grand space feel in proportion, while a neutral palette allows the incredible views outside to shine.
Her considered touch is evident throughout the home, from playful wallpaper in the bedrooms, to built-in shelving to display favourite items, alongside enclosed storage to hide away clutter.
Like any project, it came with its challenges, but Geri says she always sees these as an opportunity.
“I find challenges always get you thinking outside the box. The biggest challenge on this home was a bespoke solid marble table we had made for the entryway. The issue was moving it and making sure the top was stable on the base – most trades didn’t want to touch it but we figured it out and it is now sitting pride of place in the entryway.”
Like this statement piece, much of the home is earthy, organic and bright, beautiful but not taking attention away from the home’s surroundings. “I wanted to let the scenery do the talking,” Geri says.
“Raw-looking timber flooring for a soft fresh feel, texture with linens and wool carpets for layer and softness in a large open plan area. Large spaces can be a challenge as you want them homely but also that it feels spacious and we managed to strike a good balance here.”
The result is a simply stunning home, full of delightful details at every turn. “I think it’s why I choose to be in this industry,” Geri explains.
“I can’t describe how satisfying it is to stand in a space that has been worked on for a couple of years with careful planning, time, and resources. It’s the best feeling when it all comes together in the end.”
Photography: Ruth Maria Murphy
This article was originally published in June 2023
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