Ask the designer

Interior designer Deborah Ruddy of Chic Unique, Ratoath, Co Meath answers your questions. Email: [e-mail]

Q I’m thinking of installing a breakfast bar in my kitchen — what do you think?

A. I’m a big fan. Apart from the obvious aesthetic appeal, they’re a great transitional space for a quick coffee in the morning or chatting to friends as you make dinner. If you live in an open plan apartment, they can also create a divide between the kitchen and living space. The standard height for a breakfast bar is 3.5ft — but if you’re much shorter or taller, this can be adapted to suit. Invest in good quality bar stools, such as those by French designer Philippe Starck — or you may never use the new addition to your kitchen. Where space is tight, consider a drop-down (collapsible) breakfast bar for two.

Q. With three children to cater for, Santa has arrived a bit early to our house — but can you suggest a stash?

A. Under the bed is most common place for Santas who’ve shopped throughout the year to store presents until Christmas morning — but here are a few safer hiding spots. If possible, remove Santa’s presents from the house altogether to a safe haven the kids can’t search, such as a friend’s house or the office. At home, old suitcases, a long zip-up suit bag, the attic or boot of the car are some suggestions — basically anything that can be locked. It’s a good idea for Santa to write down everywhere he hides things — just in case.

Q. I’m shopping for a new bed, but am very confused by all the different mattress sizes available — can you shed any light on the issue?

A. Although the actual frame may vary in size depending on the degree of ornamentation, beds are sold according to the size of mattress they take. However, as most countries have their own names and standard sizes for the various mattresses available, the whole process can be a bit confusing — especially if you’re shopping online. Here in Ireland, the most commonly available sizes are: Small Single (2’ 6”), Single (3’), Small Double (4’) , Double (4’ 6”), King (5’) and Super King (6’) — but others such as Emperor (7’) may be available on request. For a single person, a small double should be sufficient. For couples, go for a King size if possible. Try www.mattress.ie.

Q. We’re redoing our hallway floor and lots of friends have recommended ‘parquet’ — but can you tell me exactly what it is? It’s currently tiled.

A. Back in the 17th century, large diagonal squares known as ‘parquet de Versaille’ were introduced as a replacement for marble flooring in Versailles, France. More recently however, parquet flooring has come back into vogue. Basically, parquetry is a mosaic of wood used for flooring or furniture design. For flooring, it comes in a variety of woods, including oak, walnut, cherry and maple and is usually laid in a decorative herring bone design. Although more expensive than tiles, parquet floors usually last longer, require less maintenance and are warmer underfoot.