Saturday with Louise Kennedy: I originally studied interior design before switching to fashion
This autumn/winter, Louise Kennedy presents a collection inspired by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
In summer, I wake early. In winter, it’s usually closer to 7am. When I’m in Dublin, there’s nothing I love more on a Saturday morning than to take my beloved miniature schnauzer, Paddy, out for his first run of the day. Of course, a coffee run is always a must early on, so Saturday mornings are always taken at a leisurely pace. I love reading the HTSI supplement of the — the bible of all things luxury across the industries I’m most interested in.
Whether I have breakfast or brunch depends on where I am in the world. If I’m in Dublin or London, I love to meet people for brunch.
In Dublin, The Merrion Hotel is a long-time favourite — I’ve been dining there for over 25 years. Adil, Fiona, and the team make everyone feel so welcome.
I make it my business to walk more on a Saturday than I do during the week. I am lucky to be surrounded by beautiful parks, whether I’m in Dublin, London, or New York. Each offers respite in the city centre and I love to go for a walk while listening to an audiobook or meeting with friends.
Lunch for me always takes place after 1pm. I’ll probably opt for a salad and some lightly grilled fish. I travel a lot, so I have favourite spots in different cities. In New York, I always visit Sant Ambroeus, and I always stop by its original home when I’m in Milan. In London, I love dining at ABC Kitchen in The Emory.
If I’m not working, I love to browse around mid-century furniture stores — be that in Dublin, London, or NYC. In Dublin, Killian McNulty’s gallery on Francis St is a wonderful addition to the design scene. His eye is exceptional, and his knowledge and passion are contagious. In London, Vincenzo Caffarella is a favourite. Their collection of 20th century antiques is second to none. I can’t get enough of their collection of lighting — specifically the pieces by Angelo Brotto and RG Rida.
I originally started studying interior design before I switched to fashion, so it has always been a special interest of mine. The mid 20th century continues to be a source of inspiration. It’s an era that mixes beautifully with other styles and I have several pieces that sit seamlessly alongside the more classical forms in my Georgian townhouse. I’m currently coveting one of Joseph Walsh’s Enignum shelves in black lacquer.
Art is another huge source of inspiration for me. I love to visit art galleries — two of my favourites are The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the V&A in London. Both are incredible museums, and there are always new, beautiful works of art to discover. Walking through the Met’s galleries, I’m especially drawn to the emotive power of Franz Kline’s brushstrokes and the rich colour fields of Rothko — both of which have influenced our AW25 collection.
You can see those references in our silk prints and novelty tweeds — each piece captures the texture and depth of modern expressionist art.
As I travel so much for work, I tend to eat out a lot; therefore, my ideal Saturday dinner is one with family. I also love being invited to a friend’s home for dinner — to me, it is the ultimate compliment.
If I’m heading out for dinner in London, a pre-dinner drink at Eagle Bar is a must. It’s located on the rooftop of Chancery Rosewood and the views are incredible. For dinner, I can’t recommend Serra at the Chancery Rosewood enough. The Southern Mediterranean cuisine is incredible, with several vegetarian options that suit me perfectly. When I’m in the mood for something comforting, I love a classic pasta dish at Carbone in Mayfair. In New York, I love Dowlings for dinner and Bemelmans Bar in The Carlyle for a night cap and live music.
I don’t tend to go out to events on Saturday nights, though I am always curious about a cultural night when overseas, be that ballet or opera. I am grateful to have a busy social schedule, but when I am in Ireland, I prefer to stay low-key. On those evenings, I usually opt for a BBC docudrama.
I go to bed around midnight and I like to listen to audiobooks as they help me fall asleep. I also recently discovered the supplement Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate, which has been a total game changer for my sleep.
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