Interior brands have played an important part in how our homes have changed over the past 30 years. And it’s not just about how they look. Kitchens have become gathering places. Gardens have turned into outdoor rooms. Meanwhile, bathrooms are now somewhere to retreat rather than simply get ready.
As House and Home celebrates 30 years, we’re continuing our look at some of the brands that have been part of that change. From kitchens and gardens to furniture and bathrooms, these five names have helped shape how we decorate, renovate and live at home.
When kitchens were made for living
Aloco Kitchens has been creating bespoke kitchens in Ireland for more than four decades, evolving its designs as the way we use this hardworking room has changed.Aloco Kitchens
The kitchen has changed from a functional workspace into the hub of the home. Aloco Kitchens has been part of that story for more than four decades.
Founded in a Dublin workshop in 1980, the family-run business creates bespoke kitchens around the people who use them. Craftsmanship and quality materials remain at its heart. At the same time, clever design ensures each kitchen works for the way we live today.
Visit: alocokitchens.ie
When the garden became another room
Our gardens have become genuine extensions of the home, with planting, furniture and outdoor living spaces designed to be enjoyed throughout the year. Garden and outdoor furniture and structures from Caragh Nurseries.Caragh Nurseries
Some of the biggest changes to our homes have happened outside. Gardens are no longer somewhere we simply plant and mow. Instead, they’ve become places to cook, entertain, relax and escape.
For more than 30 years, family-run Caragh Nurseries in Co Kildare has helped Irish homeowners make more of their outdoor space. Today, its offering includes statement trees and planting, outdoor furniture, garden buildings, saunas and showers.
Visit: caraghnurseries.ie
When our homes became an expression of who we are
From the sofa to the finishing touches, the choices we make for our homes have become a much greater expression of personal style. Leo fabric 3 seater from EZ Living Interiors.EZ Living Interiors
Thirty years ago, we didn’t talk quite so much about our ‘interior style’. Today, we’re much more confident about choosing furniture and accessories that say something about us.
Founded in Cork in 1988, family-run EZ Living Interiors has grown alongside that change. Its collections include sofas, dining tables, lighting, rugs and finishing touches. As a result, there are plenty of ways to create a home that feels personal.
Visit: ezliving-interiors.ie
When the shower stepped into the spotlight
Flair’s ORO offset sliding quadrant enclosure is finished in silver for a beautifully elegant and luxurious bathroom.Flair Showers
Few rooms have changed as dramatically as the bathroom. Once largely functional, today it’s somewhere to retreat, recharge and bring a little hotel-style luxury home. The shower has become a design feature in its own right too.
Founded in Co Cavan in 1952, Flair Showers has been at the forefront of that transformation, with its Irish-designed shower enclosures and wet room systems now recognised internationally for their design.
Visit: flairshowers.com
When the finishing touches became design statements
Switches and sockets have become part of the finishing details we consider when creating a beautifully resolved interior. Brushed brass engraved switch from Forbes & LomaxForbes & Lomax
Some of the most telling changes in our homes have happened in the smallest details. Switches and sockets were once things we barely noticed. Now, they’re part of the design conversation.
For almost 40 years, Forbes & Lomax has championed that approach, combining modern technology with beautifully considered finishes and pioneering The Invisible Lightswitch®, proving that even the most practical details can contribute to a really well-designed room.
Visit: forbesandlomax.com
How interior brands have changed our homes
Looking back over three decades of House and Home, perhaps the biggest change is how much more we expect from our homes. We want them to work harder, feel better and reflect who we are.
These ten interior brands tell just part of that story. Together, they offer a fascinating snapshot of how Irish homes and interiors have evolved over the past 30 years.
Missed Part 1? Discover 5 brands that changed the way we live at home in Ireland.
