Operation renovation: 'Every imperfection tells a story - that's what makes it ours'

"There's something satisfying about peeking inside the home of an interior designer. These, after all, are the rooms where the best of the design world spend their downtime, surrounded by the things that they love - every light fitting, cushion and piece of artwork on the walls. A home is so much more than just bricks and mortar - it's a place where life enters, makes an indelible mark and leaves."

"When designer Geri O'Toole and her husband Cathal bought a dilapidated cottage in Limerick in 2010, their aim was to make it liveable and loveable again. A second ambitious renovation a decade later has completely transformed it into a modern yet timeless family home. Leading designer Geri O'Toole, founder of Geri Designs, makes it her business to know this, creating spaces that reflect and celebrate the life of those that live there, all with her knack for balancing old-world character and contemporary comfort."

Geri O'Toole and her husband Cathal bought a dilapidated Limerick cottage in 2010 with the aim of making it liveable and loveable. A second ambitious renovation about a decade later transformed the property into a modern yet timeless family home. The house combines old-world character with contemporary comfort through considered details and curated furnishings. Interiors showcase personal belongings, artwork and thoughtful lighting that reflect the lives of the occupants. The result is a family home that feels both rooted in heritage and updated for everyday living, balancing charm with practical modernity.

Read at Independent