Tired of cookie-cutter homes? Interior design shouldn't be about replicating what you see online. Let's dive into how to create a space that truly reflects you! This is what internationally acclaimed interior designer Banjo Beale, winner of the BBC's Design Masters, is bringing to Irish Design Week 2025 in Dublin.
Banjo, known for his infectious energy and design philosophy that blends storytelling, sustainability, and personal flair, is set to deliver a keynote on circular design and creative living. He'll be exploring how small design choices can have a massive impact, not just on our homes, but on our planet and communities too.
"It's kind of a diplomacy mission," he says, highlighting his goal to share insights. Having moved from Australia to a tiny island off Scotland, Banjo has a unique perspective on adapting designs to different climates, a topic he's eager to explore during the event.
He explains that the talk's theme will be past, present, and future, discussing his journey and design philosophy. For him, design is about resourcefulness, creativity, and using what you already have.
With sustainability at the heart of his projects, Banjo encourages clients to infuse their spaces with stories. But here's where it gets controversial... He believes in moving beyond simply buying new materials. Instead, he suggests sourcing vintage and second-hand pieces, sparking your imagination by considering their past and future owners. "It's about trying to put meaning on stuff, otherwise it's just pointless," he adds. He even encourages creating stories in your spaces, even if you have to reverse engineer them!
When it comes to his style, Banjo aims for a "rustic but refined" aesthetic. He loves things that are a little imperfect, yet pulled together in an unexpected, refined way, using unexpected materials but reinterpreting them. He humorously dislikes the term 'upcycling,' preferring to make things look even older. He also prefers to let wood look like wood.
In warmer climates, he notes it's easy to rely on the natural light, while in colder climates, like Ireland, the focus shifts to chasing warmth and light. He emphasizes the importance of lighting, materials, and textures to create a cozy feeling, suggesting you can never have too many candles or lamps.
Looking ahead to 2026, Banjo anticipates more 'natural finishes' like lime and clay plaster, and pared-back interiors.
And this is the part most people miss... He implores everyone to break free from the Pinterest and Instagram cycle. "Stop looking at Pinterest and Instagram," he urges. He finds that clients often come to him wanting to replicate images they've already seen. Instead, he suggests a social media detox and focusing on the feeling you want to create in your space. What's your favorite city, hotel, or café? What makes it special? Who is your muse?
What do you think? Do you agree with Banjo's perspective on moving away from social media trends in interior design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
To find out more about Irish Design Week, visit dcci.ie.
