The creative Cork makers building products that last

We live in an era of disposable culture, where everything is replaceable, and little is truly owned in a meaningful way. We buy, use, and eventually discard.

This cycle of disposability places an enormous burden on our environment and affects our culture by shifting societal values. But a quiet, powerful counter-trend is growing in Ireland, rooted in the philosophy of slow design.

This is why, this month, the historic Ballymaloe Grainstore in Shanagarry will once again transform into an epicentre of Irish creativity as it hosts Irish Design Works 2026.

Eighteen designers and artists from all four corners of Ireland, united by the same goal of making pieces that keep artisan skills alive, proving to the public that handcrafted design can be both functional and deeply meaningful, and encouraging them to consider objects that tell a story.

We’re delighted to bring the work of Ireland’s finest makers back to the beautiful Ballymaloe Grainstore this summer.

Irish Design Works is a celebration of contemporary Irish design and an antidote to the mass-produced products flooding the market. Every piece tells a story and represents a direct connection between maker and owner. These are objects designed to be cherished and built to last a lifetime.

The Irish Design Works exhibition was originally established to highlight exceptional bespoke furniture. It has since evolved to encompass a wide range of craft disciplines while maintaining its commitment to quality, sustainability, and the enduring value of handmade Irish design.

It began as an idea shared by three skilled Irish furniture designers and makers: Ben Gabriel, Tricia Harris, and Daniel Gill.

“The inspiration for the event started after exhibiting at Ballymaloe during the Christmas fair with Tricia and Daniel,” says Ben, of Gabriel Furniture on what motivated the trio to organise the show.

“Fortunately, it also inspired the Allen family, who asked us to put on a bigger and more diverse exhibition. We jumped at the opportunity, as there are very few events that showcase the talents of creative crafts in this country.

“The location and venue also played an important role, of course. We are now in our third year and keep growing while inviting new artists”, says Ben.

In the age of fast consumption, Irish Design Works serves as a refreshing alternative, helping us build meaningful relationships with the things we buy and own.

When you choose an item handmade in Ireland by one of these artisans, you choose longevity and quality, while supporting the preservation of centuries-old skills.

“I hope people feel a sense of the care and attention that goes into both the design and making of our pieces,” says Tricia Harris of Harris Studio.

“One of the benefits of exhibitions is that people can experience the pieces up close, see and feel the quality of the materials, and appreciate the skilled craft involved. There is an authenticity and depth to handmade pieces that people connect with.”

This year’s showcase features a wide selection of brand-new work by the following artists:

Alan Horgan Studio creates nature-inspired lighting and contemporary furniture.

Alison Byrne Glass crafts layered, narrative-driven glass works.

Ann McBride Ceramics offers colourful, illustrative, and sculptural ceramics.

Daniel Gill Furniture, Shane Tubrid Furniture, and Stephen O’Briain Furniture produce elegant, bespoke timber pieces, alongside Esker Design, Gabriel Furniture, Studio Harris, and Studio Kinnard, all of which emphasise timeless craftsmanship, quality hardwood, and functional design for modern interiors.

De Bruir Atelier crafts durable, functional bridle-leather bags, while Elements of Action focuses on innovative furniture design using natural materials.

Eirlume Studio blends traditional stained glass techniques with contemporary style, and Glasshammer Studios produces vibrant, sculptural fused glass.

Hanna Van Aelst specialises in sustainable, textured willow baskets and sculptural pieces.

Laura O’Hagan Ceramics and Monica Fergus Ceramics create expressive clay sculptures and ocean-inspired art, respectively.

Finally, Shane Holland Design offers sculptural pieces and handcrafted lighting.

Together, these makers champion high-quality functional design, blending traditional artistry with contemporary innovation to create heirloom-quality pieces for modern living.

We live in a world that moves fast, but quality takes time. Irish Design Works reminds us that we have a choice in the things we bring into our homes.

We can settle for the mass-produced, or we can choose to support a culture of making that values quality, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of Irish craft.

Irish Design Works takes place at Ballymaloe Grainstore, Shanagarry, Co. Cork, from July 25 to August 16 and is open daily from 10am to 5 pm with free admission.

Throughout the exhibition, a selection of exhibitors will be present each weekend, giving visitors the chance to meet the makers, hear the stories and inspiration behind their work, and learn about the materials and processes that bring each piece to life.

For more information and profiles for individual artists, visit www.ballymaloegrainstore.com/irish-design-works.