Ireland is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage and friendly personality, but to this day its growing design scene is somewhat of a hidden gem. With old architecture welcoming new, and a fresh generation of designers, Ireland is pushing boundaries in terms of innovative design. So if you’re into fashion, graphics, textiles and more then visit the Emerald Isle and experience authentic Irish design for yourself. Fashion at the Year of Irish Design This year Ireland is celebrating the Year of Irish Design with ‘ID2015’ – a year-long programme promoting the best of Irish design, craftsmanship and creativity. Meet renowned designers and upcoming talent as they showcase their work at exhibitions, festivals, workshops and talks. With events happening all across the country, 2015 is an exciting year to visit. We really hope that people will enjoy the year and join in this celebration of great Irish design Laura Magahy, Executive Chairman of ID2015 Dublin’s Year of Irish Design highlights Hidden Heroes: The Genius of Everyday Things Learn about the benefits of design in everyday life and the growing importance of design-led innovation. Portfolio An exhibition of contemporary work featuring designers who demonstrate the technical skill required to produce unique, innovative objects. Irish Design Here/Now Explore the work of Irish designers home and abroad and see how design in Ireland has changed, responding to the hopes and dreams of its people. Dublin - the design capital From prints and products, to fashion and food – immerse yourself in Dublin’s vibrant design scene. Ireland is always changing and it’s cities like Dublin that are contributing to its growing reputation in terms of design. With fresh ideas, new start-ups and an emerging Creative Quarter, Dublin has been officially selected as the World Design Hub for 2015. Temple Bar Gallery If you’re into old-school techniques such as screen-printing and wood blocking, head to the Original Print Gallery where you can pick up something truly unique. Alternatively, if you like to keep things a little more contemporary, search for the Temple Bar Gallery. The studio itself is a modern building right in the heart of Dublin City and inside you’ll find an interesting cross section of Irish design in a variety of media. Dublin’s creative vibe is electric and the urge to make something is infectious – see for yourself at The Design Tower. Home to 17 exceptionally gifted designers and craftspeople; the public are invited to watch these highly experienced professionals at work. See ceramics, textiles and jewellery in the making and you’ll walk away feeling inspired. The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Wandering around Dublin you can feel the Irish influence that has inspired the design of the city. Take a look at the spar of the famous Samuel Beckett Bridge, its shape is said to evoke an image of an Irish harp lying on its edge. The design and composition of the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre on the Grand Canal is thought to create a dynamic place that mirrors the joy and drama found in Dublin itself. And of course, you can’t miss the impressive Convention Centre Dublin that sits on the edge of the River Liffey. Designed by local architect Kevin Roche, the 55-metre glass building was built with the view of Dublin’s skyline and the Wicklow Mountains in mind. Kevin took complete creative ownership of the centre, designing every facet of the building, right down to the door handles. Dublin has a thriving design community – you can see the impact around the city as businesses start to realise the potential of local design talent. Conor and David – Graphic Designers Two people that know a thing or two about attention to detail are local designers Conor Nolan and David Wall. In 2006 the pair set up their own Dublin studio, Conor & David, specialising in graphic and digital design. Speaking about design on a global scale the team believe Ireland has something valuable to offer – “the creative scene feels more connected and cohesive now than it ever did. Irish designers are starting to recognise their place in an international context and we’re excited to see where that takes us.” Book design for Oliver Jeffers by Conor & David When it comes to taking home an Irish souvenir, make sure it’s the real deal. Head to the Irish Design Shop where owners Clare Grennan and Laura Caffrey live and breathe Irish design. Selling a range of home-ware, stationery and accessories, the Irish Design Shop makes a point of promoting the local designer behind each product. And if you’re in Dublin at the weekend, be sure to get to Designer Mart, which is an outdoor market, located in the Old City area of Temple Bar. It showcases the very best of handmade craft produced by Irish and Ireland-based designers. Irish Design Shop In recent years independent shops started to emerge in Dublin – this aided the creation of a design community, one which has strengthened and grown. Clare and Laura – owners of the Irish Design Shop Irish design doesn’t just stop with the aesthetically pleasing – it’s a feast for all the senses. With an array of modern cafes, bars and restaurants woven into the city’s cobbled streets, there’s a whole creative world waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a warm and friendly restaurant, go to the Eden Bar and Grill right in the middle of the Creative Quarter. The food is beautifully presented and the architecture gives the place an overall contemporary feel. Alternatively, take it back to the 1920s and head to the Vintage Cocktail Club. The interior design is quirky and the award-winning cocktails are the perfect excuse to try something new. Food design in Dublin From big buildings to small studio sets – discover why Irish design is making waves in the 21st Century. Great design can be found all over Ireland, especially at Titanic Belfast, where the striking visitor attraction pays homage to the city’s rich maritime heritage. The building’s angular design was inspired by the bow of a ship and inside it features an intricate crisscross of suspended walkways. With nine high-tech galleries, all featuring interactive design, you can explore the shipyard and travel to the depths of the ocean in innovative ways. The MAC, Belfast If you’re impressed by modern architecture, check out Belfast’s award-winning arts centre The MAC. A key cultural element in the regeneration of the Cathedral Quarter, The MAC has been recognised for its architectural excellence. Designed by Irish architects, Hall McKnight, the building deploys a structural language drawn from the traditional brickwork in Belfast and sets the standard for architects up and down the British Isles. Ireland’s Year of Irish Design highlights Song of the Sea Discover how this Irish Oscar nominated animation was created, at an interactive exhibition in Kilkenny. A Stitch in Time Learn how contemporary Irish artists use tapestry to explore ideas of gender, community, labour and race in Cork. From Silver Stars to Calvary Find out about Irish design for stage and screen, with this Galway exhibition highlighting innovation in theatre, film and TV. We recommend Things to do in DublinFive things you must see and do to experience the real Dublin. West Coast design Tour the West Coast and find traditional Irish design with a modern twist. The best of BelfastGet a real taste of Belfast with these five city highlights.