Q&A with Geri O’Toole from Geri Designs
This month we speak to Geri O’Toole from Geri Designs based in the heart of Limerick city, Ireland.
Geri, thank you for taking the time to speak to us. We have been inspired by your interiors, and your thoughtful use of colour, natural materials and exquisite finishing details. You have spoken about your experience of growing up surrounded by a creative family, how did your early life and time studying Architecture & Design in Dublin lead you to start your own interior design practice?
Growing up in a creative family, I was constantly surrounded by art, antiques, design, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. My parents encouraged me to explore different creative outlets from a young age. This naturally sparked my passion for design and gave me an intuitive sense of how aesthetics and functionality can coexist. Studying Architecture & Design was a pivotal experience for me. It gave me the technical foundation and the creative freedom to experiment with ideas and concepts.
I worked for my dad in his store, Browsers Interiors in Limerick for a period. I felt a strong desire to channel my passion and skills into something uniquely my own. Starting my own interior design practice was a natural progression—it allowed me to blend my creative instincts with the practical knowledge I had gained, while also bringing my personal vision to life.
You specialize in creating luxury homes, with timeless appeal. What are the key features that go into a home to create an instant feeling of calm and connection? Can you talk to us about how design can impact a person’s mood, and how you work with your clients’ likes and interests to create unique spaces that reflect the individuals living there?
Working in London was an incredible experience that really shaped my approach to design. Being immersed in such a dynamic, fast-paced environment exposed me to diverse styles and perspectives, and I had the privilege of collaborating with some truly talented professionals.
One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of adaptability – every project came with its own unique challenges, and being flexible while staying true to my design vision was key. I also learned the importance of storytelling through design – how each space can reflect a client’s personal journey. This mindset has greatly influenced how I approach projects today, always aiming to create spaces that feel authentic and purposeful.
Spending time away from home made me appreciate my roots even more. There’s something really grounding about Limerick—the sense of community and connection to heritage is so strong. I wanted to build something meaningful back home, where I could combine the skills and insights I gained abroad with the warmth and character of my local surroundings. Anchoring my business in Limerick felt like the perfect way to bring that vision to life.
When did you discover Chase Erwin fabrics, and what appeals to you about our fabrics? Are there any that you return to time and time again?
I first discovered Chase Erwin fabrics early in my career while working on a residential project that needed a touch of understated luxury. I was immediately drawn to the quality and the timeless elegance of the fabrics – they have this incredible ability to elevate a space without overwhelming it.
What truly appeals to me about Chase Erwin fabrics is their natural sophistication and how effortlessly they blend texture and subtle patterns. The neutral palettes and refined finishes make them incredibly versatile, allowing me to use them across a variety of projects, from modern minimalism to more classic, heritage-inspired spaces.
There are definitely a few fabrics that I return to time and time again. The soft linens and velvets are particular favorites because they add a sense of warmth and comfort while maintaining a refined aesthetic. They’re perfect for creating inviting, layered interiors that feel both luxurious and lived-in.
During a project your clients are fully involved in the design and decision making, how important is communication to a successful interior, and how do you ensure your clients are able to be open and honest with you?
Communication is absolutely essential to a successful interior design project. I firmly believe that a space should reflect the personality and lifestyle of the client, and that can only happen if there’s open and honest dialogue throughout the process. From the initial consultation to the final reveal, I make it a priority to really listen to my clients, understanding not just what they want but why they want it.
To create a comfortable and open environment, I always encourage clients to share their ideas, even if they’re unsure about them. No idea is too small or too far-fetched—it’s all part of shaping a space that feels personal and meaningful. I also make sure to be transparent about the design process, offering honest feedback while being receptive to their input.
Regular check-ins and updates are crucial too. It’s important that clients feel involved every step of the way, so I make use of mood boards, sketches, and material samples to visualize concepts together. By fostering that sense of collaboration, we build trust and ensure the final outcome truly aligns with their vision.
You create exquisite bespoke upholstery for your interiors, from headboards to armchairs and sofas. What makes a timeless, yet modern piece of furniture, and how do these pieces add to a scheme? Can you tell us about any pieces you have created using Chase Erwin fabrics?
For me, a timeless yet modern piece of furniture strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary simplicity. It’s all about clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and quality craftsmanship—pieces that feel substantial and enduring without being overly ornate.
Natural materials and luxurious fabrics also play a crucial role, as they add texture and warmth while ensuring the piece remains relevant over time. Bespoke upholstery allows me to tailor each piece to complement the overall scheme while adding a unique touch that makes the space feel curated and personal. Whether it’s a statement headboard or a beautifully crafted armchair, these pieces anchor the room and create focal points that draw the eye. They add layers of texture and comfort, elevating the entire space.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Chase Erwin fabrics on several projects, and they never disappoint. Most recently, we had the most gorgeous dining chairs made up for a client’s formal dining room using the Swing Collection – they look incredible in the space.
Colour is a hugely important aspect to your design process, using techniques such as colour drenching, subtle plaster finishes and bringing in the warmth from natural materials such as wood and metals. How do you build a colour palette, and how does original artwork feature in this?
Building a colour palette is one of the most exciting parts of the design process for me. I start by considering the mood and atmosphere I want to create in the space, and from there, I draw inspiration from natural materials and the environment surrounding the project. Techniques like colour drenching—where a single colour envelops walls, ceilings, and woodwork—help to create a cohesive, immersive feel, while subtle plaster finishes add depth and texture.
I love incorporating the warmth of natural materials like wood and metals because they ground the palette and bring a sense of authenticity and comfort. Original artwork also plays a key role, not just as a finishing touch but as an integral part of the scheme. Art can inform the entire colour story or provide a striking contrast that adds character and dimension to the space. I often use artwork to introduce unexpected accents or to echo the tones within the room, creating harmony between the decor and the art itself.
Through your Instagram, and YouTube channel you share your knowledge and expertise with your followers in an accessible, open and kind manner. Why is it important to you to share these insights and hugely valuable tips to anyone interested in creating a home that feels soothing, with a timeless appeal?
Sharing my knowledge and insights through Instagram and YouTube is something I’m really passionate about. I believe that good design should be accessible and not feel intimidating. I want to empower people to create spaces that feel soothing and timeless, no matter their experience level or budget.
It’s important to me to build a community where creativity is celebrated and practical tips are shared openly. I’ve found that being transparent about my process and offering guidance not only helps others but also enriches my own practice – seeing how people interpret and implement ideas is incredibly inspiring.
When do you feel most inspired, and how do you fill your creative cup whilst running a successful business around a busy family life?
I feel most inspired when I’m surrounded by beauty and craftsmanship, whether it’s in nature, art galleries, or even just walking through a city with rich architectural heritage. Travel is a big source of inspiration for me too; seeing how different cultures approach design always sparks new ideas. But honestly, some of my most creative moments come when I’m at home, in quiet, reflective spaces, or spending time with my family.
Balancing a successful business with a busy family life can be challenging, but it also keeps me grounded and motivated. I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow of creativity rather than forcing it. Taking time out to recharge—whether that’s a weekend getaway, a walk, time in the gym, or just an evening sketching with a cup of tea—helps me come back to my projects with a fresh perspective.
I also make a conscious effort to surround myself with beautiful things that spark joy, from tactile fabrics and handmade ceramics to thoughtfully curated art pieces. These small, intentional choices help fill my creative cup daily, reminding me why I love what I do and keeping my passion alive, even on the busiest days.
It’s refreshing to hear you speak about failure, and how it’s an intrinsic part of growing a business. Can you share with us some lessons you have learnt whilst running your business and any advice you have for someone wanting to do the same?
Failure is something I’ve definitely made peace with over the years. In fact, I’ve come to see it as an essential part of growth. Running a business means taking risks and pushing boundaries, and not everything works out the way you envision. Early on, I would get caught up in perfectionism, worried about making mistakes, but I’ve learned that those missteps are often the most valuable lessons.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and being able to adapt when things don’t go according to plan. There have been projects that didn’t turn out as expected, ideas that didn’t resonate, or logistical challenges that seemed impossible at the time. Instead of seeing those moments as setbacks, I now view them as opportunities to reassess, refine my approach, and come back stronger.
For more information on Geri Designs visit geridesigns.ie and follow them on Instagram @geri_designs.
*Image credit: Geri Designs