My Weekend feature Cork Echo
This brought me to Cork ten years ago and I never left! Interior design was always on my radar and I’m so glad I came to Cork to do it. I found a home from home here, the people are very welcoming and there’s always so much going on in terms of art, music and sport.
After working as a colour consultant for Pat McDonnell Paints for a number of years, I decided to set up on my own. I combine my Cork based interior design consultancy, Ger Cooney Design, with teaching for the Interior Design Academy of Ireland in Dublin.
No two days are alike. A day can start out responding to student emails before visiting a client in their home to select paint colours or floor finishes and end up in a barber shop designing a complete refit.
I’m really fortunate work doesn’t feel like work. I get to meet interesting people, visit amazing spaces and talk design all day. I love architectural conservation and am a member of the Irish Georgian Society. I am fortunate to have worked on some period properties in Cork for residential clients, the Victorian and Georgian styles are a personal favourite. I love the architectural features and generous proportions of the spaces. I feel that maintaining these type of properties is important as there is so much to learn from history.
My ideal way to spend a Friday night is at a gig or design event. I find music inspiring and motivating. My Dansette record player is always on in the background when I’m working from home. This year I’m hoping to expand my vinyl collection.
Although I’m a night owl, I do try to get up early. If I have a deadline, I find I’m more effective in the morning and always like to get tasks done early.
Yes a lot of my classes run on Saturdays. It’s a real change of pace from my work week but I’m fortunate I really enjoy teaching. My students are all engaged and enthusiastic about interior design. By the end of a Saturday there’s little voice left but the day has flown.
It has to be Chicago! There’s such rich architectural heritage and a great music scene. I would love to experience the place, take photographs and immerse myself – well as much as is possible in a weekend. I would have to bring my partner as luckily she has similar interests and loves to shop.
In the city I have a soft spot for Fitzgerald’s Park. I always find it a great place to take a stroll and enjoy a coffee. For a unique and beautiful setting where you can just switch off it has got to be West Cork. I head every year and still find new walks and beaches to explore. Plus the amazing array of food at Scally’s in Clonakilty is worth the trip alone.
On rare weekends off I love to head to Achill to spend time with friends and family. It’s so peaceful with amazing landscapes, great walks and endless photo opportunities. Very therapeutic! I’ve recently become an uncle so heading home has taken on a whole new meaning – a little less peaceful but in a great way!
I must confess to watching as much soccer as I can fit in. I used to play some 5 a side but because of schedule I don’t get to play as much as I would like. It’s a new year so hopefully I can get back into it.
Entertained definitely! I tend to eat out and have dinner at friends often. I do like to cook a chicken casserole or often a stir fry.
For a coffee you can’t beat the flat white and atmosphere at Cafe Depeche. I do try to avoid the homemade chocolates at the till but don’t always succeed.
For something special it’s usually Blackrock Castle. Amazing surroundings again, and good food makes for a great night.
Sunday for me is important as it’s the day I tend to unwind and relax. I like to watch an old movie, catch up on Netflix episodes or listen to music. An odd design magazine or two might sneak in there but it’s all very chilled.
Unfortunately early, depending on my schedule, so usually around 6.30 am.
Full article here