IMAGE Interiors autumn/winter 2025 hits shelves today, September 26. Editor Megan Burns shares what you can expect inside.
While, like most people, I mourn the earlier-setting sun as autumn makes itself known, for me, the new season brings with it so many small pleasures that it’s difficult to feel hard done by. Fresh, bright mornings where everything is crisp, and the light catches things differently. Stepping through your door and noticing the contrasting warmth inside for the first time in months. And of course, lighting a candle and reaching for a favourite blanket as the darkness arrives earlier and earlier.
While summer evenings beg to be explored, the colder months offer the possibility of cosying up and resting, as nature’s cycle encourages us to slow down after a summer of flitting about and throwing routine to the wind.
This season also underlines how important our homes are as a place of retreat: a sanctuary from harsh weather and the woes of the world alike. I was reminded of the power of design to transport us when I visited the Portobello home in this issue. Its owners have created a space that feels wholly enveloping, from the welcoming colours that lead you through the space to the surprising vintage finds at every turn, it feels like a world all its own.
While we also visit a charming Arts and Crafts home that has been gently updated for modern family living, but with a deft touch that ensures it is a relaxing, welcoming space. You’ll also find a Wicklow home literally crafted and built by its owner, from the carefully cut cladding planks to the wooden furniture inside, to the concrete floor (cracks and all) – an incredibly personal space for the family to shelter while watching any unfavourable weather pass through the surrounding landscape.
We chat to Imen McDonnell about restoring a thatched Limerick cottage, giving new life to this building that has been a refuge since the 19th century. And discover a Clancy Moore Architects project has transformed the home of a garden designer, bringing her beloved garden into the experience of the home.
As you know, we’re always on the lookout for things that make our homes feel more special. Rachel Worthington McQueen shows us inside her Co Down shop and cottage full of vintage finds; while on we’re reminded of the majesty of dried flowers in Sarah Noonan’s Mayo studio. Michelle Hanley has compiled an edit that our medieval ancestors would appreciate, from glinting metal pieces to intricate designs reminiscent of manuscripts.
Of course, returning home is always better when you’ve ventured somewhere out of the ordinary, and we have plenty of ideas in this issue. Ruth Maria Murphy has captured a Scottish Highlands escape that will have you longing for its rugged wilderness. Closer to home, you can take a road trip through the Beara and Iveragh peninsulas, where you’ll be spoilt for choice with gorgeous pitstops.
I hope, like us, you’ll find inspiration in these pages to make your home feel like a true sanctuary this season.
Enjoy the issue,
Find IMAGE Interiors autumn/winter in store now, click here to buy online, or subscribe here.
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