Design Ireland Celebrates Its First Birthday

DesignIreland.ie, the online showcase for the best design and craft from Ireland, celebrated its first birthday on the 25th of October with an exclusive dinner at 23 Leinster Road, Rathmines. Since its initial launch by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland in November 2016, this important online platform has been steadily expanding to feature over 150 Irish designers who have been selected by an international panel of retail and design experts.

To mark the end of a successful first year, the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland invited guests to join them for a delicious dinner of autumnal produce from talented Irish artisan suppliers, created by Jennie Moran of Luncheonette. Karen Hennessy, Chief Executive of the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, welcomed guests including fashion editor, Deirdre McQuillan, ceramicist, Thomas Diem, jeweller and co-owner of the Irish Design Shop, Claire Grennan, fashion designer, Ros Duke, interior designers, Roisin Lafferty and Suzie McAdam, and designer, Edward Coveney, of Elements of Action.

Following a reception with Dingle Gin and Irish Herbalcrest Tonic served in Jerpoint Glass, along with canapés of Dingle Gin cured Goatsbridge trout, guests feasted on dishes including Jerusalem artichoke velouté, and Lambay Island venison, followed by bread and butter pudding with Teeling whiskey custard and baked apple. Each dish was served on tableware from some of Ireland’s best designer-makers, including Diem Pottery and karoArt, with wine served in Emerald Crystal.

This holiday season, Irish consumers are encouraged to celebrate Ireland’s creative place in the world and give a gift from DesignIreland.ie. The site features curated collections to assist consumers in finding unique gifts for the festive season and throughout the year, providing ideas and information on the makers, their inspiration and their work. The full collections of gift ideas and featured makers can be viewed at DesignIreland.ie.