5 local design gifts for globetrotters, sustainable shoppers and party hosts

The best gifts are the ones you can enjoy all year.
Whether you’re spoiling someone close or choosing something special for yourself, some of Cork’s leading design folk have been creating capsule collections of goodies for gifting.
The perfect pick could inspire that next getaway (hello Capri, we can dream…), add some magic to everyday meals or transform an armchair into a cosy reading nook.
Here are five tempting picks from local shops:
1. FOR HOMEBODIES AND SUSTAINABLE SHOPPERS
You might not be able to book a consultation with her until mid-March ’23, but well-known Cork-based interiors whiz Cathy Angelini has created a collection of one-of-a-kind cushions that can help you achieve some of her design magic at home.
Made locally with care using vintage and end-of-line fabrics and fabric remnants from previous design projects,
Buy them: Available in various sizes from €70, flamingointeriordesign.com/shop
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2. FOR GLOBETROTTERS AND HOLIDAY PLANNERS
Cork interior design company Ciara Keelan Concepts has launched a capsule collection of goodies chosen to create “a perfect afternoon in any home.”
There’s a selection of aspirational books by the luxury brand Assouline (guaranteed to inspire your next adventure) and a pair of captivating candles in ‘Santa Fe’ and ‘Catskills’ by The Brooklyn Candle Studio.
Buy them: Books €95 and candles €55 for delivery or collection via DM here or email info@ciarakeelanconcepts.com.
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3. FOR FANCY SNACK FANS, HOUSEWARMINGS, AND HOSTS
Make every snack an occasion with a piece or two from this charming irregular porcelain plate collection from Leap’s treasure trove of design goodies, Old Mill Stores.
Made for using and adding pizazz to your table, they’re also lovely for looking at and talking about or for hanging up and admiring.
Buy them: From €75, theoldmillstores.ie
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4. FOR BOOKWORMS AND LATE-NIGHT READERS
Any cosy corner can be transformed into a book nook with the right lighting. Rather than attacking your walls with extra wiring and sockets, simply charge up this beautiful Asteria Portable Lamp from Interiosity in Douglas and enjoy instant soft glare-free light.
Asteria Move has three light intensity levels that can be adjusted by pushing the button on the lamp base. The battery lasts up to 35 hours and it can easily be charged with the included USB cable.
Buy it: The Asteria Portable Lamp is €199 from Interiosity, 19 St. Patrick’s Woollen Mills, Douglas.
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5. FOR THE CANDLE LOVER WHO HAS EVERYTHING
If you can’t possibly arrive with another candle this year, treat the candle fan in your life to this brass-coloured candle holder from Bloomingville of Denmark.
A thoughful alternative, it comes with a smart leather-wrapped handle and it’s pretty enough to stand alone or style with other pieces.
Buy it: Brass Candle Holder, €19, Summer House Studio, Princes Street, Cork, and online here.
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