Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
Sports
TV & Film
Health & Fitness
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/46/81/44/46814404-77cb-d2e1-c1e8-30badca30e33/mza_12574944802831307578.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
EZ Living Interiors
15 episodes
4 days ago
Step into the world of design, architecture, and personal transformation with "Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors" - a podcast that goes beyond the surface of beautiful spaces. Each episode features intimate conversations with design innovators, industry legends, and creative visionaries who share not just their expertise, but the compelling journeys that shaped their perspectives on style and living. From career-changing moments and personal revelations to practical design hacks and industry insights, you will pick up invaluable tips for creating spaces that truly reflect who you are.
Show more...
Home & Garden
Arts,
Design,
Leisure
RSS
All content for Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors is the property of EZ Living Interiors and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Step into the world of design, architecture, and personal transformation with "Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors" - a podcast that goes beyond the surface of beautiful spaces. Each episode features intimate conversations with design innovators, industry legends, and creative visionaries who share not just their expertise, but the compelling journeys that shaped their perspectives on style and living. From career-changing moments and personal revelations to practical design hacks and industry insights, you will pick up invaluable tips for creating spaces that truly reflect who you are.
Show more...
Home & Garden
Arts,
Design,
Leisure
Episodes (15/15)
Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Home, Hair & Happiness: Sabrina Hill

When Sabrina Hill's 2-year-old Robin's juice landed on her Santorini sofa, it didn't soak into the fabric—it just rested on top, thanks to aquaphobic texture she didn't even know she'd chosen.  

The owner of Cork's Kopper salon, known for its urban jungle aesthetic with copper planters and hanging greenery that makes people ask "is that a restaurant?”.

Sabrina perfectly blends creativity, style and business know-how. From building a salon designed entirely around Instagram lighting (they closed for a full training day just to find best filming spots) to creating a family home that transitions from dark Georgian-boho living room to bright ocean-inspired kitchen, Sabrina's philosophy is simple: trust your gut, prioritize texture over trends, keep your five closest people supportive, and never paint walls before choosing furniture. 

Planning to build soon with 20 years of design lessons learned, she's trading five-bedroom mansion dreams for functional multi-generational spaces—because home is really about the people inside

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  • Santorini sofa's aquaphobic fabric survives toddler juice spills remarkably well
  • Texture matters more than trends for creating unique personal style
  • Dark moody colors work beautifully when you trust your gut instinct
  • Kopper salon's urban jungle aesthetic creates clients' Hollywood experience feeling
  • Building family home prioritizes functionality over five-bedroom mansion dreams now


GUEST DETAILS

Sabrina Hill is the owner of Kopper, one of Cork's most loved and respected hair salons, known for its beautiful aesthetic and incredible reputation. 

As a true expert in the hair industry, Sabrina now shares her knowledge on Ireland AM, bringing professional hair insights to a wider audience. 

She's a creative business owner who has built Kopper from the ground up with a distinctive vision creating an urban jungle atmosphere with copper planters, hanging greenery over wash basins, and a large communal table running through the salon that makes passersby mistake it for a restaurant or café.

Connect with Sabrina

  • Kopper Salon: Cork, Ireland
  • Follow Sabrina on social media for hair tips and interior inspiration
  • Watch her segments on Ireland AM


QUOTES

  • I've never been drawn towards a trend, I think I was always trying to shine through with my own personal style, whether it's in my home or whether it's in my business or with what I'm wearing. I always love texture and styles. - Sabrina Hill
  • The feeling of home really is everybody together in it, and all my family. My happiest when I am at home is when my older son Aaron, he's 24, when he's at home, Robin is there running around the place, and my mom and dad come over for dinner. And then I really do feel I've actually made a beautiful home. -  Sabrina Hill
  • "I had the vision of Kopper in my head. It was literally a Pinterest type salon that I wanted. I knew that I wanted that big, huge table running down through the salon where we do toning and different services. People still stand outside the window looking in, asking 'is that a restaurant, or is it a café?' I wanted to look entirely different. -  Sabrina Hill


MORE INFORMATION

EZ Living Interiors is a family-owned home furnishing retailer which sets the standards for quality, style, and design in the industry. We advise on how individuals and families should furnish their living spaces to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. 

Our mission is to inspire and elevate the art of interior design through the promotion of high standards of product sourcing, craftsmanship, and customer service. We achieve this by providing innovative and thoughtful design solutions for our customers to support them to create stylish and comfortable living spaces.

Visit EZLivingInteriors.ie to learn more.

Our podcast is produced by dustpod.io for EZ Living Interiors

KEYWORDS

#TextureOverTrends #UrbanJungleStyle #InteriorDesignHacks #FunctionalDesign #DesignPhilosophy #MoodyInteriors

Show more...
14 hours ago
54 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Building Your Dream Family Home: Vicki Elibank House Build

Creating a home that looks beautiful on Instagram is one thing but building a space where your family actually lives—with mess, fingerprints, and scattered shoes—requires a completely different approach. 

Vicki, the creative force behind Elibank, shares her four-year self-build journey from breaking ground during COVID to evolving her Georgian-meets-modern home into a true family sanctuary.

Discover why she prioritizes storage over aesthetics, how historic houses influenced her bold woodwork choices, and why that natural smile when you walk through your door matters more than any design trend.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  • How prioritizing function over aesthetic creates homes that truly work for busy families.
  • Why building through COVID and Brexit became a blessing when compared to today's costs.
  • The psychology behind choosing dark woodwork inspired by historic Georgian houses,
  • How breaking a self-build into achievable phases allows your home to evolve naturally
  • Why that natural smile when you arrive home matters more than Instagram perfection


GUEST DETAILS

Vicki is the creative mind behind Elibank, a beautifully designed self-build family home in Cork that has captivated the Irish interiors community for four years. Together with her husband, Vicki spent years renovating homes in both Ireland and Edinburgh before embarking on their dream build in 2020. Their 18-month build journey through COVID, supply chain challenges, and Brexit taught them invaluable lessons. 

Vicki shares her build journey, design tips, and family life honestly on Instagram, where she has built a loyal following through her emphasis on function-first design, clever storage solutions, and creating homes that feel like sanctuary rather than showrooms. A passionate advocate for supporting Irish businesses and championing local craftspeople, Vicki balances full-time work with raising three children while continuing to evolve Elibank room by room.

Connect with Vicki: Instagram: @elibank_hous

QUOTES

  • A home should just make your body relax and forget whatever's happened during the day  - Vicki
  • It is not easy building or renovating. Don't rush it, and don't feel the pressure of social media having to have this picture perfect home. - Vicki
  • I'm looking at a room going, what will I use this for? And where can I store all the stuff I need to come in here and relax so it's not on show? - Vicki
  • It's not about walking in and seeing this pretty space. It's that feeling of being able to release everything that's gone on and just sit and enjoy what you have now. - Vicki


MORE INFORMATION

EZ Living Interiors is a family-owned home furnishing retailer which sets the standards for quality, style, and design in the industry. We advise on how individuals and families should furnish their living spaces to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. Our mission is to inspire and elevate the art of interior design through the promotion of high standards of product sourcing, craftsmanship, and customer service. We achieve this by providing innovative and thoughtful design solutions for our customers to support them to create stylish and comfortable living spaces.

Visit EZLiving-Interiors.ie to learn more. This podcast is produced by dustpod.io for EZ Living Interiors

KEYWORDS

#selfbuild #interiordesign #familyhome #homerenovation #irishinteriors

Show more...
2 weeks ago
1 hour 4 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Community Building Through Design: Baz Ashmawy

Emmy-winning broadcaster Baz Ashmawy joins EZ Living Style Stories to share the profound lessons he's learned from DIY SOS Ireland—where transforming homes means transforming lives. 

From heartwarming stories of community volunteers rallying around families in need to his own renovation journey and the design tricks that have inspired his personal space, Baz reveals why homes should tell our stories, the power of changing things up, and his one golden rule for creating spaces that truly support how you live. 

Whether you're here for the laughs, the tears, or practical design advice, this conversation goes beyond the surface.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  • How DIY SOS reveals the extraordinary kindness of Irish communities
  • Why homes should evolve with your life rather than staying static
  • The transformative power of thoughtful design details
  • Learning to be comfortable with failure and building resilience through repeated attempts
  • How communication and talking to people remains the most undervalued foundational skill 
  • The importance of seeking expert advice along with being open minded 


QUOTES

  • I think sometimes people get very tied to things being a certain way. You need to just mess it up a bit, change an atmosphere or a mood. Sometimes it's good to do drastic things. It's good to change things up - Baz Ashmawy
  • Pitying people does nothing for them. Being empathetic and thinking, if I was that kid in a wheelchair, what would help me live a better life? What would give me confidence? That's what DIY does. - Baz Ashmawy
  • "The biggest problem people have is they go, I'm too old, I'm too late to do this. You're just not at all. I think people have a terrible fear of failing at things. It's not luck, I've just failed more times than you've tried. - Baz Ashmawy
  • Be careful what you say about yourself to yourself. The world will beat you, it'll do all the beating you need. You just don't need to do that to yourself. So it's nice to be nice to yourself. - Baz Ashmawy
  • Sometimes you might have a clear vision of what you want, but talk to someone who knows what they're talking about because they can just give you a great steer. Have an open mind and be able to take people's advice and mix it with your own feelings. - Baz Ashmawy


This podcast is produced by dustpod.io for EZ Living Interiors

EZ Living Interiors is a family-owned home furnishing retailer which sets the standards for quality, style, and design in the industry. We advise on how individuals and families should furnish their living spaces to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. Our mission is to inspire and elevate the art of interior design through the promotion of high standards of product sourcing, craftsmanship, and customer service. 

We achieve this by providing innovative and thoughtful design solutions for our customers to support them to create stylish and comfortable living spaces.


Visit EZLivingInteriors.ie to learn more.

KEYWORDS

#homedesign #interiordesign #DIYSOS #homerenovation #communityspirit


Show more...
4 weeks ago
48 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Pebbles of Joy: Suzanne Kane

Creating a home that truly reflects your lifestyle while juggling family, career, and personal wellbeing can feel overwhelming when you're constantly putting everyone else's needs first.

Today, we discover how to create a balance between the two, how to transform outdoor spaces into entertaining hubs, the power of "pebbles of joy" in daily life, and practical tips for reclaiming your sitting room as children grow. 

Our guest Suzanne Kane has done all this and more. She is a broadcaster and mother of three who has spent years navigating the balance between Dublin city life and seaside living. Known for her authentic approach to sharing life's real moments on social media, she brings honest insights about creating homes that work for modern families while maintaining personal style and wellbeing.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  •  Suzanne’s Seaside Transformation
  •  Maintaining Positivity and Mental Health
  •  Her Preferences for Home Design
  •  Importance of Home and Family
  •  Where to Find Inspiration and Motivation
  •  The Role of Her New Outdoor Furniture
  •  Balancing Time for Others and for Yourself


GUEST DETAILS

Suzanne Kane is a broadcaster who has worked for some of the most prominent radio stations in the country and is a familiar face on Virgin Media One’s flagship breakfast show Ireland AM. Along with her radio and television roles, Suzanne teamed up with top Irish comedian PJ Gallagher to host Dubland The Podcast, which has reached number one on the iTunes comedy chart, sold out live shows, with subscribers all over the world.

QUOTES

  •  Going out and having a walk is so important, and it does, like, the first 10 minutes of that walk. Oh, my God... And then by this last 10 minutes, I'm like, I can take on the world.
  •  For most people's homes, I think you need to have a bit of space that you claim as your own.
  •  Now, as the kids have got older, they're staying in the back of the kitchen, they're staying in their playroom and I'm reclaiming my sitting room again.
  •  I have an acute memory of growing up that my mom would be in the kitchen and I’d have just that gorgeous feeling of  like, winter and warmth. I want my kids to feel that.


MORE INFORMATION

This podcast is produced by dustpod.io for EZ Living Interiors

EZ Living Interiors is a family-owned home furnishing retailer which sets the standards for quality, style, and design in the industry. We advise on how individuals and families should furnish their living spaces to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. Our mission is to inspire and elevate the art of interior design through the promotion of high standards of product sourcing, raftsmanship, and customer service. We achieve this by providing innovative and thoughtful design solutions to our customers to support them to create stylish and comfortable living spaces.

Visit EZLiving-Interiors.ie to learn more.

KEYWORDS
#EZLivingInteriors #Podcast #outdoorfurniture #homedecor #designinspiration 

Show more...
1 month ago
38 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Sofa Shopping to Seasonal Styling with Emma Doyle

Whether you're planning a major refresh for Christmas or simply dreaming of that perfect sofa, pick up some great tips to help you make confident decisions. Discover how to navigate fabric choices like a pro, understand what truly makes a sofa comfortable for your lifestyle, and learn why timing your furniture purchases can save you both money and stress.

Our guest is Emma Doyle, the multi-site manager at EZ Living Interiors. What she doesn’t know about sofas is not worth knowing!

We also share the very special story behind our seasonal room, a preview of the Ideal Home Show and some exciting news which broke just as we recorded the podcast.  

If you've been putting off that sofa purchase or wondering how to create a home that truly reflects who you are, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward. Your dream living room is closer than you think.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  • How your feedback inspires everything we do
  • The special meaning behind our famous Christmas room
  • Ultimate guide to sofa shopping: how to find the perfect balance of comfort & style
  • Why great service isn't just about winning awards, it's a core part of the culture at EZ Living.
  • The excitement of the Ideal Home Show
  • Why our ultimate goal is helping you transform your house into a place you love coming home to


GUEST DETAILS

Emma Doyle is the Multi-site Manager at EZ Living Interiors.

MORE INFORMATION

EZ Living Interiors is a family-owned home furnishing retailer which sets the standards for quality, style, and design in the industry. We advise on how individuals and families should furnish their living spaces to create homes that are both beautiful and functional. Our mission is to inspire and elevate the art of interior design through the promotion of high standards of product sourcing, craftsmanship, and customer service. We achieve this by providing innovative and thoughtful design solutions to our customers to support them to create stylish and comfortable living spaces.

Our functions in transforming homes involve establishing and maintaining a curated catalogue of furniture and decor. We also establish procedures and criteria for the assessment and selection of our collections. Visit the Our Story section of our website to learn more. Additionally, we set the trends and requirements for home design. We approve furniture pieces and decor for the purposes of creating exceptional interiors. Visit EZLivingInteriors.ie to learn more.

QUOTES

  • We're always listening to our customers and their needs, because the greatest designs are the ones that are loved and lived in
  • The windows are designed to be a talking point, to spark ideas before you even step into the store, reflecting the seasons and our latest collections.
  • The Christmas room is a yearly tribute to a very valued Sarah... it's a feeling of home, a feeling of family, the feeling of one team.
  • True comfort is key. It's one of the biggest purchases you'll probably ever make in your life because it's your sofa—you sit on it every day of the week.
  • Sometimes you want something to work so badly, but practicality is what makes it a home.
  • It's about creating those memories with EZ Living Interiors. It's something simple, but it can mean a lot.


KEYWORDS

#EZLivingInteriors #Podcast #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Furniture #SofaShopping #DesignInspo #HomeInspo #LivingRoom #StyleStories

Show more...
1 month ago
18 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
From Keys to Cosy: Muireann O’Connell’s First-Home Story


In this episode of Style Stories, Laura is joined by broadcaster and Ireland AM co-host Muireann O’Connell, who opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of buying her first home. 

From the tears of finally getting the keys to the reality of broken boilers, clutter battles and the “knees test” for sofas, Muireann shares a refreshingly honest take on what it really means to make a house feel like home.

With her trademark humour and relatability, she chats about influences from her mam, the joy of taking your time with interiors, and why comfort matters just as much as style. Expect plenty of laughs, practical tips, and a behind-the-scenes peek at life on live TV — plus 

Muireann’s current design obsessions (spoiler: pink walls are in).


 

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  •  Muireann’s emotional rollercoaster of finally getting her first home
  •  Why it’s okay to ditch the pressure and take your time with interiors
  •  The surprising “knees test” for choosing the perfect sofa
  •  Her mam’s fearless influence — from ripping up carpets to knocking walls
  •  Clutter vs calm: making the bedroom a space just for rest
  •  Pink walls, sideboards and the joy of adding colour back into her home

 

GUEST DETAILS
 
Muireann O’Connell is a TV presenter, broadcaster, and co-host of Ireland AM, the country’s longest-running breakfast show. Known for her quick wit, relatability, and ability to make viewers feel like they’re chatting with a friend over coffee, Muireann has become one of Ireland’s most recognisable media personalities.

Alongside her broadcasting career, Muireann has been candidly sharing her first-time homeowner journey — from the highs of finally getting the keys to the everyday realities of turning a house into a home. With her trademark humour and down-to-earth honesty, she offers a refreshing perspective on interiors, lifestyle, and what it really means to create a space that reflects who you are.

 
MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie.   
Style Stories is produced for EZ Living Interiors by dustpod.io

 

QUOTES

 

  • I burst into tears when I got the call about my keys — I never thought the day would come. 
  • If there’s one thing I don’t mind taking my money, it’s my home. 
  • You don’t have to have everything perfect straight away — it’s a lifetime project. 
  • The knees test is vital. If your knees don’t touch the couch properly, it’s not the one. 
  • I ripped the wardrobes out immediately — I want my bedroom to just be a bedroom. 
  • If you don’t have as much stuff, you might just be a little bit calmer. 


KEYWORDS

#MuireannOConnell #StyleStories #EasyLivingInteriors #HomeInspo #FirstHomeJourney #InteriorDesignTips #IrishHomes #HouseToHome #HomeStyle #CosyLiving

Show more...
2 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Style, Storytelling and the Power of Detail - Orla Neligan

In this episode of Style Stories, we’re joined by writer, editor and creative director Orla Neligan—founder of creative media studio Cornershop—for a rich and reflective conversation on visual storytelling, intuitive style and the beauty of thoughtful details.

Orla shares how her childhood comic books, a teenage darkroom, and a lifelong love of magazines led to a career spanning food styling, interiors, branding and set design. She talks about the feeling of a space, the value of repurposing what you already own, and why creativity works best when it’s collaborative—not contrived.

From the scent of a room to the spine of a book, Orla shows how the smallest elements can tell the biggest stories.


 


THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

●      Orla Neligan’s creative path—from comic books to Cornershop

●      Why storytelling is at the heart of great interiors

●      Repurposing what you already have, to style your space

●      The value of collaboration and trusting your creative team

●      How to make a space feel personal, not perfect

 

GUEST DETAILS

Orla Neligan is a writer, editor, producer and stylist, and the founder of Cornershop, a creative studio specialising in visual storytelling across interiors, food, lifestyle and branding. With a career spanning journalism, editorial direction and set design, Orla has worked on everything from in-flight magazines to cookbooks, photoshoots and TV sets.

She has served as editor of Abroad Magazine, Cara (Aer Lingus), Business Traveller, SQ (Superquinn), and K (The K Club Hotel), and has contributed features to The Irish Times, The Sunday Business Post, 

 

Irish Tatler, and more. As a stylist and creative director, she’s brought her sharp eye and signature warmth to brands, broadcasters, publishers and personal projects alike.

Whether she’s styling a set, writing a feature or shaping a brand’s identity, Orla’s work is grounded in authenticity, elevated by detail, and always tells a story.
 
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/orla-neligan-99781b16/
https://www.cornershopproductions.com/

 

 

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie.   
Style Stories is produced for EZ Living Interiors by dustpod.io

 

QUOTES

 

Collaboration works when ego leaves the room. It’s never just one person—it’s the whole team that makes something great – Orla Neligan
 
 Have you ever walked into a space and felt something straight away—even before you’ve looked around? That’s the magic I’m always chasing – Orla Neligan

You're trying to create a narrative that feels like someone—relatable, inspiring, and maybe a little bit surprising – Orla Neligan

Show more...
2 months ago
42 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
The No-Rules Guide to Flower Styling

Lots of us struggle with not knowing how to use flowers fully to create beautiful spaces. Some of us lack confidence when buying and arranging flowers, others have uncertainty about color combinations and are intimidated about creating impressive tablescapes for special occasions.

Today you will learn how to befriend a perfect expert in this who is just around your corner! You’ll know how to invest in quality flowers, and create stunning arrangements with confidence. You will discover practical tips, learn flower care secrets and gain the creative freedom to break traditional rules through playful color clashing and seasonal displays.

Join us right now with Heather Condren, the vibrant founder of Flower Pop, Dublin's boldest floral studio. From serving high-profile clients including the Beckhams, this "accidental florist" brings infectious energy and a rebellious approach to traditional flower arranging, making flowers accessible to everyone.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

  • Heather Condren's Floral Journey and Flower Pop's Evolution
  • Sources of inspiration, including fashion, movies, and more 
  • Choose seasonal flowers for the best quality and longevity.
  • How to use flowers of different heights, varieties and using multiple vases.
  • How you can play with color without fear.


GUEST DETAILS

Floral designer, entrepreneur and business owner, Heather Condren runs a successful floral studio in the heart of Dublin 8. Passionate about innovative design, passing on the knowledge of being creative through blooms, and championing other Irish female makers in the store.

Heather has worked and styled for many Irish and international brands, collaborated with Irish creative agencies and PR companies, created florals for bridal shoots, including the cover of Confetti Magazine in 2020. They were also featured in international floral magazine Cinefluer in 2023.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-condren-023205106/
https://www.flowerpop.ie/

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie.   
Style Stories is produced for EZ Living Interiors by dustpod.io


QUOTES

Make friends at your local florist. If you do need to pop in somewhere and buy a bunch, separate that bunch. Don't put it into a single vase in the middle of your table. - Heather Condren

Any leaf that's going below the waterline should be removed. And if tulips droop, put a little copper coin in the bottom of the vase. - Heather Condren

If you're having a dinner party on a Friday and you go into your florist, they'll say you need to get your flowers on Tuesday. They're going to look their best on Friday. - Heather Condren

KEYWORDS


#FlowerPop #HeatherCondren, #floraldesign #seasonalflowers #weddingflowers, #flowerinspiration
#EZLivingInteriors #StyleStories #Podcast


Show more...
3 months ago
35 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Black House, Bold Design: David O'Brien's Creative Journey

David O'Brien isn't just an interior designer - he's a storyteller who happens to use homes as his canvas. In this vibrant episode, David pulls back the curtain on his creative world, sharing how he transformed a blank plot of land into the now-famous Black House, a design that caught national attention and challenged traditional Irish home aesthetics.

Growing up in a creative family with a carpenter dad and design-savvy mom, David was always destined to think outside the box. From binge-watching Grand Designs to collecting vintage treasures since childhood, he's turned his passion into a profession that's all about creating spaces that feel deeply personal.

The episode is a delightful journey through David's design philosophy: mix old with new, never be afraid of bold choices, and always let your home tell your story. Whether he's talking about rescuing a 19th-century grand piano to use as a kitchen island or sharing his impressive collection of 120 house plants, David proves that great design is about joy, memories, and a bit of creative courage.

Listeners will walk away inspired, with practical tips on sourcing unique pieces, understanding lighting, and creating spaces that make you smile the moment you walk in.

In this episode, David delves into:

  • Design Philosophy: Telling your life story through carefully curated, meaningful spaces.
  • Vintage Hunting: The thrill of finding treasure in unexpected places, from auctions to Facebook Marketplace
  • Creative Roots: How family, travel, and passion shape a designer's unique vision.
  • Lighting Magic: Creating atmosphere through strategic, mood-enhancing illumination.
  • Design Wisdom: Breaking rules, embracing personality, and making your home a joyful reflection of you.
  • Black House: A bold architectural rebellion against traditional Irish home design.


GUEST DETAILS

David O'Brien is a Cork-based interior designer known for his warm, character-filled approach to creating modern living spaces. He follows a philosophy of “sentimental interior design,” where vintage finds, family heirlooms, and meaningful objects are carefully woven into the fabric of a home to evoke memory, comfort, and personal history. His own home, the "Black House" in Ballygarvan, was a finalist on RTÉ’s Home of the Year in 2021, famously featuring a grand piano repurposed as a kitchen island. This bold design choice reflects David’s unique blend of functionality, storytelling, and sustainability.

David believes homes should feel familiar and safe—places that reflect the people who live in them and their life experiences. As the creative force behind RJ O’Brien Building Contractors, he brings this ethos into renovations and design projects across Cork and Dublin, seamlessly blending antique charm with contemporary practicality.



MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie



QUOTES

There isn’t really a typical day - that’s what I love about the job. You could be picking the perfect hue of white for a dining room one morning and then checking in on building works the next. - David O'Brien

I grew up in a very creative household… My dad was a carpenter, my mom was always evolving the house. She spent a lot of time trying to create a lovely, cozy space for us. - David O'Brien

From a really early age, I was watching those TV shows—Sarah Beeny’s Property Ladder, Grand Designs. I loved the idea that you could change homes up to suit who was living there, not just what they were designed for. - David O'Brien

We try and plan way ahead of the project… changes when things have started are expensive. My role is to negotiate between the client and the builders and to create something with a really natural plan going forward. - David O'Brien

Our big light is purely for effect, it’s never on. It never gives good lighting. You want lamp lights. In general, I do think it’s a little bit more relaxed in planning, you need sockets in the right places. - David O'Brien

Don’t go into a store and be like, ‘that’ll do for now.’ You won’t get something nicer later—you’ll just live with what you bought, and it won’t bring you any joy. - David O'Brien

When you step inside the door, your worries just start to fade away. I wanted to come into a bright, airy space filled with plants and treasures that I’ve collected over many years—something that brings a smile to my face every single day. -  David O'Brien

Show more...
3 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Kukoon Rugs: From Humble Beginnings to Irish Design Leader

In this episode of Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors, our marketing manager, Laura O'Keeffe dives into a fascinating conversation with Clare Vallely, co-founder of Kukoon Rugs. 

Kukoon Rugs has completely transformed the Irish rug market and now offers a game-changing machine-washable rug collection. Clare shares Kukoon Rugs' incredible journey, from selling their very first rug in 2006 to becoming one of Ireland's leading names in home décor. She then offers invaluable advice on how best to incorporate rugs into your home.

Whether you're refreshing a single space or redesigning your entire home, Clare offers invaluable insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear the story behind Kukoon Rugs and get ready to redefine your interior style!

In this episode, Clare delves into:

  • The power of strategic partnerships, including their year-long collaboration with EZ Living Interiors, and how shared values elevate the customer experience.
  • Why staying ahead of interior design trends, actively listening to customer feedback, and maintaining affordability are crucial for success.
  •  The magic behind their collaboration with talented artists like Jacqueline Rooney to bring unique product offerings to life.
  •  The soaring popularity of their "soft, washable" collection – offering the perfect blend of luxurious feel, durability, and practicality.
  •  Clare's personal favorite: the stunning "Verity" design with its captivating medallion pattern in terracotta and blues.
  •  The evolving world of home décor, from the timeless appeal of texture (like jute) to the exciting resurgence of Art Deco and bold colors.
  •  Practical tips for choosing the perfect rug size to transform any room.

GUEST DETAILS

Clare Vallely is a dynamic entrepreneur who co-founded Kukoon Rugs with her brother Paul, transforming her family's market trading legacy into a cutting-edge design brand. 

Starting by selling her father's surplus rug stock on eBay in 2006, Clare has grown Kukoon Rugs into one of Ireland's most exciting and innovative rug companies, known for its bold designs, customer-first approach, and commitment to affordability.
With a lifelong passion for interiors that began in childhood — evidenced by her carefully preserved design scrapbooks — Clare has steered Kukoon Rugs through significant industry changes. 

Her approach blends creative vision with strategic thinking, focusing on bringing exciting, washable, and stylish rugs to market. 
From working alongside her father in market stalls to leading a successful design-led brand, Clare embodies the spirit of family entrepreneurship and creative innovation in the home decor industry.

https://www.kukoonrugs.com/

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie

QUOTES

  • Gone are the days where your options were a plain wall rug, or God forbid, a carpet remnant - Clare Vallely
  • Rugs have become much closer to fashion and to people's identities - Clare Vallely
  • We love to travel for style inspiration - Clare Vallely
  • It's about distilling fashion trends down into what this means in the rug world - Clare Vallely
  • The biggest mistake we see being made with rugs is still people buying too small - Clare Vallely
  • If you can get the front legs, at the very least, onto the rug, you'll see a massive difference - Clare Vallely
  • We're always trying to be ahead of the trends, getting the heads up before the general population about colors of the year. - Clare Vallely
  • It's about being brave. Lean into the color that you love, and start bringing those tones into your space gradually - Clare Vallely

KEYWORDS

#EZLivingInteriors, #KukoonRugs, #StyleStoriesPodcast, #InteriorDesignTips, #HomeDecorTrends, #RugStyling, #IrishInteriors, #WashableRugs, #RoomTransformation

Show more...
4 months ago
1 hour 27 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Can a Home Be Stylish and Sustainable? Jo Linehan Says Yes

Sustainable living starts at home—and it’s easier than you think. Jo Linehan, Editor of Climate at The Sunday Times and sustainability columnist for Irish Country Magazine, shares her practical, inspiring approach to conscious design and how to make any space—rented or owned—feel intentional, beautiful, and better for the planet.

With a background that blends journalism, interiors, and environmental awareness, Jo shares her top tips for intentional living, including;

  • Strategic styling for renters; without compromising values
  • The power of plants, from air quality to wellbeing
  • Simple, effective changes for everyday sustainability
  • Creating a new standard in the circular economy in interiors 
  • Bringing more intention to your space with items that tell your story and spark joy

You’ll also hear about Jo’s upbringing and time in New York shaped her view on design, her favorite interior styling tips (hint: it involves bedding and mirrors), and her advice for building a more sustainable home without the overwhelm.

Whether you're eco-curious or already on your sustainability journey, this episode is packed with down-to-earth advice and inspiring ideas to help you design a home that looks good, feels good—and does good.


GUEST DETAILS
Jo Linehan is a journalist, editor, and sustainability advocate with over a decade of experience in fashion, interiors, and conscious living. She began her career at IMAGE Magazine before moving to New York to work in fashion styling and freelance writing. In 2016, she co-founded GAFF Interiors and GAFF Shop. Since 2019, Jo has focused on sustainable development, launching the Futurist podcast and earning an MSc in Management for Sustainable Development. She is Editor of Climate at The Sunday Times and a regular voice on Newstalk. Jo lives in Dublin with her partner and their rescue Staffie, Harley.

https://www.jolinehan.com/ 


MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie


QUOTES

Having the patience to sit with the space and figure out what it actually needs, it takes a little bit more time, but it does mean that what you're going to end up with is a space that is really thought through, and that really, really works. - Jo Linehan


It’s hard in this world to have intention, but it's definitely worth it if you can pare things back and work on it. - Jo Linehan 


When you're renting, you kind of need to figure out what spaces do I really want to make the most of and focus your investment and your time into that. - Jo Linehan 


It really buys into my whole ethos of encouraging a circular economy and trying to show people that second hand is not second best. - Jo Linehan 


KEYWORDS

#sustainable #interiors #garden #renting #naturalmaterials #plants #secondhand #circulareconomy

Show more...
5 months ago
47 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Sive O’Brien’s Insider Tips on Homeware, Trends and Sustainability

Step into the world of interior design mastery. Sive O’Brien, the visionary Editorial Director of House and Home magazine, shares her 25-year journey from fashion runways to living rooms that will transform how you think about the spaces you inhabit. 

Sive gives us insider info on emerging trends like curved furniture and Boucle fabrics, along with some brilliant insights including:

  • Career evolution secrets that transformed her journey from fashion to interior design
  • Insider perspectives on the enduring power of print in our digital world
  • Trend forecasting tips to keep your home stylishly ahead of the curve
  • Sustainability strategies that balance beautiful design with environmental consciousness
  • Community building that has created House and Home's loyal following


She also peels back the curtain on the publishing industry, revealing the delicate dance between glossy print pages and digital content while, and lots about balancing aspirational and affordable content.

Whether you're a design enthusiast seeking fresh inspiration or simply curious about the evolution of interior aesthetics, grab a coffee, get comfortable and listen to the expert advice of Sive O’Brien.

GUEST DETAILS

 Sive O’Brien is Editorial Director at House and Home Magazine. Sive is also a content specialist and Brand Marketing consultant (MSC in Fashion Marketing) with 20+ years of experience in content, publishing, and brand development, working with, for, and alongside brands.
https://www.siveob.com/
https://www.houseandhome.ie/

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie

QUOTES

If you pick something for your home you can be living with it for 20 years. It has to work with your family, has to work with your life. - Sive O’Brien 

 

Interiors are just my big love. It's my vice. - Sive O’Brien

 

People seem to be just embracing so much more color in their homes now. - Sive O’Brien

 

It is all about surrounding yourselves with pieces you love, feeling comfortable, having tactile pieces and just creating a sanctuary. - Sive O’Brien

KEYWORDS


#Interiordesign #fashion #journalism #digital #magazines #sustainability #storytelling #home #Boucle #Pantone 

Show more...
7 months ago
38 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Brendan Courtney's Secrets to Home, Style, and Personal Transformation

Get ready for some refreshing inspiration. Brendan Courtney is about to drop some serious wisdom that will make you want to grab a notebook, pour your favourite coffee, and hit pause on everything else.

Some brilliant insights you will pick up include:

  • Design hacks that will totally transform how you think about your living space
  • Insider tips on creating a home that's not just beautiful, but completely functional and sustainable
  • Advice on navigating major life transitions - from career shifts to home renovations
  • Budget-friendly strategies for designing your dream space without breaking the bank
  • Personal growth secrets that blend interior design with personal development


He also shares how TV led to his career in fashion and design, some great behind-the-scenes stories of Lennon Courtney and lots about renovating his own home in Wicklow. All served up with Brendan's signature wit, warmth, and real-world expertise.

Drop everything. Grab your headphones. This is your moment to reimagine your life, one design choice at a time.

GUEST DETAILS

Brendan Courtney is one of Ireland’s best known and well-loved TV Presenters, Broadcaster, Activist and Designer.  He has hosted countless TV series in Ireland and the UK including his own self titled terrestrial TV talk show, his first TV format ‘Wanderlust”  and most recently as host of his original TV format  “Keys to my Life”.

Brendan also runs his own successful women’s wear fashion label ‘Lennon Courtney’ with his business partner Sonya Lennon, with whom he has also co-written two No.1 books on confidence and style.

Using his profile to advocate for equality in the areas of health, housing, age and gender he recently achieved first-class honours in Europe's first Masters of Business (MBA) Degree in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.

https://www.brendancourtney.com/about

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie

 

QUOTES


For me, home is everything. Our living space is the most important space we're in. - Brendan Courtney 

 

The biggest skill I think I have now is listening. - Brendan Courtney 

 

Everything takes twice as long as you think it's going to take. So give it that in your head. - Brendan Courtney 

 

Speak to everyone who's already bought a house and ask them what their experience was, because it's very inspiring to hear how people got on the property ladder. - Brendan Courtney 

 

KEYWORDS

#fashion #design #LennonCourtney #homerenovation #balance #firsttimebuyers #mortgage #budgeting

Show more...
8 months ago
39 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Design Secrets from TV's Most Honest Judge: Hugh Wallace Tells All

We are beyond excited to drop our very first episode of Style Stories!

Our first guest is the legendary Hugh Wallace, the charismatic judge from "Home of the Year" and the genius behind some of Ireland's most stunning architectural transformations! We sat down on Hugh's top sofa pick, the Scott, in our amazing Sandyford Flagship store to chat. 

Some brilliant insights you will pick up include:

  • How Hugh's journey from Dublin to Dallas completely transformed his career
  • The surprising way his dyslexia diagnosis at 18 became his superpower in architecture
  • Behind-the-cameras at "Home of the Year" incl heated debates with Amanda!
  • Secret to choosing furniture that will stand the test of time (Spoiler: it's not just about the looks)
  • A genius newspaper hack that'll save you from buying furniture that doesn't fit your space


This episode is packed with laughs, real talk, and so many nuggets of wisdom from Hugh's 45+ years in the design world. His passion for creating spaces that truly work for people shines through in every story he shares.

Ready to transform your space with expert insights? Hit play now! 

Don't forget to follow Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors. Trust us,you won't want to miss what we've got coming up next!


GUEST DETAILS

Hugh Wallace is an award-winning architect and founding partner of Douglas Wallace Consultants.

Hugh has a passion for creative design that engages with its audience to create conversation and comment. He believes that good architecture is essential to create social cohesion and enhance our enjoyment of our landscape and living environment whether in the city or countryside. It’s about creating a smile on our faces - creating a sense of place and belonging.
Hugh’s is also known for many high-profile RTE TV shows including Home of the Year , the Great House Revival and My Bungalow Bliss.

MORE INFORMATION

Find EZ Living Interiors online at www.ezliving-interiors.ie

#InteriorDesign #StyleStories #HughWallace #DesignPodcast #EasyLiving

Show more...
8 months ago
26 minutes

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Style Stories is Coming 5th March 2025

Step into the world of design, architecture, and personal transformation with "Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors" - a podcast that goes beyond the surface of beautiful spaces. 

Each episode features intimate conversations with design innovators, industry legends, and creative visionaries who share not just their expertise, but the compelling journeys that shaped their perspectives on style and living. Our first guest is one of the best, the legendary Hugh Wallace, on Wednesday March 5th.

From career-changing moments and personal revelations to practical design hacks and industry insights, you will pick up invaluable tips for creating spaces that truly reflect who you are.  

Follow now and join us for three special weekly episodes starting March 5th.

Show more...
8 months ago
1 minute

Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors
Step into the world of design, architecture, and personal transformation with "Style Stories with EZ Living Interiors" - a podcast that goes beyond the surface of beautiful spaces. Each episode features intimate conversations with design innovators, industry legends, and creative visionaries who share not just their expertise, but the compelling journeys that shaped their perspectives on style and living. From career-changing moments and personal revelations to practical design hacks and industry insights, you will pick up invaluable tips for creating spaces that truly reflect who you are.