Dublin isn’t particularly known as a major design city, but as the Irish capital’s wealth grew over the past two decades, so did its appetite for creative design and style. Pass by the city’s DESIGNER MART on Saturdays and you’ll find close to three dozen up-and-coming designers showcasing their latest creations, just like at Design Yard, an art gallery created to promote national talents. These are the two essential stops in the city to get to know Ireland’s emerging artists together with some already well-established creators, but there are plenty of other design attractions in the city.

Browse a number of shops offering international design, starting with Inreda which may not be very large in size, but that is big on Scandinavian and Italian designs. The same apllies to Mobilia which in addition to Nordic and Italian furniture, also offers some home accessories, while at Retrospect you can get some cool vintage pieces from around Europe and the UK.

Another must is O’Driscoll Furniture, an interior design showroom of cool contemporary styles that has decorated hotels and supplied Dublin’s biggest names, including the U2 guys. Be sure to also pass by Fine Design for its innovative furniture and lighting creations made according to clients’ specifications, and be sure you don’t miss Avoca, a centuries-old institution that’s expanded from Ireland to the USA. You’ll find a variety of attractive pieces, from homewares to ceramics, glass, and fashions, pretty much the type of products offered at the Kilkenny Shop which stocks world-renowned designers together with art and jewelry exclusively made in Ireland.

If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for at any of these places, head to 2Cool Design, home to quality furniture designs from a good range of suppliers.

After that shopping (or simply browsing) spree, dine at Eden, a stylish restaurant designed by Tom de Paor. There’s Scandinavian furniture, hanging plants, and a pleasant terrace to savor the refined modern Irish cuisine before heading back to your hotel.

Get some rest at The Morgan, arguably Dublin’s most tastefully designed hotel. It mixes contemporary minimalism with some classic details, with most rooms being light, elegant spaces enlivened with colorful Irish art on the walls.

-See the complete Dublin city guide.
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