The American interiors dream

From Selling Sunset to Dream Home Makeover, there are a multitude of US-based reality shows offering their particular brands of interiors and property porn. This stateside influence has made a slow creep into Irish homes — often via Instagram — and now we are just as likely to copy a bathroom we see in Beverly Hills as we are to pick one from a showroom in Ballymount.

Being “influenced” by Instagram interiors accounts or TV shows is not a bad thing, says Geri O’Toole of Geri Designs. Herself a bona fide Instagram star with 93,000 followers and counting, O’Toole welcomes the inspiration that social media and “reality” shows have had on Irish home improvers.

“I love that we are more creatively thinking about our homes, your home is so important. It’s about making a space that can enhance your lifestyle and elevate your mood,” she says, adding that this look is in high demand from her clients. “I believe that great interiors are becoming more important to people than ever.”

Interior designer Kate Hobbins-Lockett, who is originally from Canada, agrees that clients are increasingly seeking the Amber Interiors and Studio McGee “look”. What makes it popular is that it is quite relatable, she says. “This style of interior decor is very much about mixing materials and the new with the old,” notes Hobbins-Lockett.

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“There’s a thread of antique pieces through both styles that I don’t think Irish life allowed for until now. They both have a real focus on mixing natural materials which I love. Featuring elements like linens, wood, black iron and small patterns really creates a relaxed, classic feel. They’re very relatable styles.”

The mix of traditional and modern design that is emblematic of the American style — think exposed beams, luxurious hardware, and cosy furnishings — may not always translate to more modestly sized Irish homes, however. What is achievable in a cavernous American kitchen will not necessarily work in that of a three-bed semi-d, agrees O’Toole.

“In saying that, there are elements that can be applied to give an Irish house some extra character like some fitted joinery or panelling, or some fresh colour schemes with texture for layering and making it homely,” she points out. “I have seen some videos online with very small American apartments in New York and the character is amazing! So I believe you can get character into any house no matter size or shape.”

Some Instagram interiors accounts to help you get the look:

Studio McGee @studiomcgee

With 3.7 million followers, this account is one of the OG American interiors accounts. Shea McGee and husband Syd then brought their pared-back style to the masses via their hit Netflix show Dream Home Makeover. They’re probably the reason you bought that oversized light fitting for your dining room.

Amber Lewis @amberinteriors

Another pioneer of the laid-back and eclectic California style, Amber Lewis has 1.8 million Instagram followers as well as a booming online shop that helps followers achieve her signature layered style that is also inherently livable.

Joanna Stevens Gaines @joannagaines

She is famed for her “farmhouse-chic” style. Gaines hit the stratosphere of interior design celebrity with the home design and renovation show Fixer Upper she fronted with her husband Chip — think the US version of Room to Improve but with more shiplap. Multiple books, product collaborations and a whole new TV network later — and 13.7million Instagram followers — their juggernaut shows no sign of slowing down.

Lindye Galloway @lindyegalloway

A personal favourite of Geri O’Toole’s, Galloway is based in the OC, California, which is a clue to her style — think coastal chic but with a dash of whimsy. Regularly featured in Architectural Digest, she has just renovated her own home which is worth the Instagram follow alone.

Athena Calderone @eyeswoon

One million Instagram followers and it’s fair to say almost all of them have longed to copy Calderone’s kitchen, which is the centrepiece of her Brooklyn townhouse. In fact, it has regularly been called “the most beautiful kitchen in the world”. The rest of her feed is full of design inspo, and also recipe inspo, for Calderone is also a cookbook author.