Inside Out: Into the blue, light touches and scandi chic

Eve Kelliher checks out the latest luxe looks for our spaces

Clockwise from left, Jysk dining set, Woodie's Neto three-light diner bar, brass and clear glass, and Joules Portleven Grand sofa, DFS.

Sat, 09 Aug, 2025 - 10:31

Eve Kelliher

Blue has soared in interior designers’ estimation as the season’s most soothing shade.

From deep coastal navy to sky-washed pastels, it has a versatile vibe and it’s making waves in every space.

Whether you’re seeking calm, comfort, or a splash of seasonal elegance, blue is the colour to embrace.

True blue

Psychologically, blue is known to bring feelings of peace, clarity and relaxation. In fact, studies have shown that blue can even help lower heart rate and reduce stress, so whether you’re working, winding down, or simply putting your feet up, it’s a colour that truly earns its place in every room.

Classic silhouettes meet contemporary country stripes in the charming DFS Porthleven sofa collection, designed exclusively with Joules.

Sink into irresistibly soft, plump cushions, with nautical-inspired stripes lined with chic contrast piping for a homely, heritage-inspired feel, such as the Joules Portleven Grand sofa, exclusive to DFS (€2,489), Dfs.ie.

Want to go fully blue? The Narberth sofa is a great place to start. With its clean, classic lines and soft blue upholstery, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and timeless style — ideal for laid-back lounging or catching up with friends. If you’re craving a seasonal refresh, blue might just be your colour.

Keep it lit

For those long summer evenings when the sun sets late but you want to keep it lit (in every sense) and the party going, think luxe-look lamps.

We’ve spotted our favourites of the season at Orianab.com and Woodies.ie — these set a tone.

For a soft, layered look, bring in accents from Oriana B. Its range of blue-toned lighting — including midnight glass lamps and indigo ceramics — adds just the right glow to your space, like the Blue Base table lamp with pleated shade (€250) or the double-brass wall light (€225).

Woodie's Neto three-light diner bar, brass and clear glass, €150.

And Woodie’s new lighting collection offers some super pieces. From natural materials like rattan and wood to sculptural statement pieces and vintage-inspired designs, it has something for every space.

Woodie's Argo black ceiling light, €100.

Standout pieces include the Rubia rattan floor lamp (€150) for a warm, organic touch, the Luga geometric table lamp (€65) for a bold, modern look, and the Morar ribbed-glass table lamp (€60) for a hint of art deco elegance.

Even younger interior design lovers’ rooms get a playful upgrade with options like the Mika dinosaur neon light (€10).

Whether you’re refreshing a single corner or reimagining an entire space, Woodie’s lighting collection is designed to brighten up every home. Available now in stores and online at Woodies.ie.

Scandi chic

Whether you’re updating a bedroom or a home office or anything in between, and if a Scandi look is what you seek, this month Danish retailer Jysk has a furniture sale offering up to 60% savings.

For bedroom updates, the Vellerup wardrobe (RRP €439, now €340) offers generous storage space paired with a sleek and modern look. Complement it with Nordby bedside table (RRP €99, now €40), ideal for keeping essentials close by and maintaining an organised space.

Those of us working or studying from home can benefit from Tamholt desk (RRP €169, now €67), which offers a neat and efficient workspace, paired with Vojens gaming chair (RRP €249, now €100) designed to provide support and comfort for extended periods of use.

The natural tones of Vedde dining table (RRP €269, now €135) bring warmth to dining spaces, perfect for shared meals with family and friends. Pair it with the elegant Purhus dining chair (RRP €149, now €59) for a sophisticated dining experience.