Designing Dreams: Róisín Lafferty’s Journey from Ambitious Graduate to International Design Award Winner

Despite graduating top of her class, Róisín Lafferty wasn’t handed her dream career on a silver platter. In 2010, as the world grappled with the financial crisis, she bravely launched Kingston Lafferty Design, proving audacity often fuels extraordinary journeys. Now, her eponymous studio, Róisín Lafferty, is celebrated internationally, showcasing a vision that merges space, material, and innovative solutions to create stunning and highly personalized spaces.

“It began as a partnership with a college friend, who eventually moved on,” says Róisín, reflecting on her journey.

The early days were marked with relentless learning. Róisén recalls, “We had always been told to make mistakes on someone else’s time — but I didn’t heed this advice. Initially, I wanted to work in London, but needed a lot of experience to even get an internship aside from qualifications.”

Three months turned into three years.

“I was learning more on sites than any education could have taught me,” she recounts. “I had given so much of myself at that time — blood, sweat, and tears — that I couldn’t walk away or work for someone else, so I decided to stay, to grow, and develop the creative team and push the business forward.”

This persistence led to a partnership with Becky Russell, who helped steer the company into the highly successful studio it is today. The studio’s international reputation speaks volumes about the unique approach Lafferty has cultivated: “Projects range from high-end residential to hotels, one-of-a-kind work environments, spa experiences, members clubs, installations and restaurants spanning international locations,” she shares proudly.

Her dedication has catapulted her onto the global design stage. Róisín became the first Irish person shortlisted for the prestigious Dezeen Interior Designer of the Year award. She defeated stiff competition for the coveted award, a true testament to her talent and determination.

"Being a finalist in Dezeen was incredible," she shares. The award capped off an already remarkable year, following a win for Best Residential Interior Design Project at the high-profile Créateurs Design Awards in Paris.

Those who know her work understand why she earned it. Róisín’s masterful use of materials is central to her emergence as a design leader.

Take The Estate, a Georgian country house transformed into something captivating. “Materials matter,” explains Róisín. The Estate showcases her ability to blend raw stone, lime-washed plaster, and mild steel—"nothing pretending to be what it’s not,” she states. It’s a design philosophy where authenticity resonates in every thoughtful detail.

This dedication extends even further. “

Róisín’s recent triumphs at the Fit Out Awards in Dublin further solidified her place amongst Ireland's leading designers. She garnered prestigious awards for both the Cork’s Montenotte Woodlands project and the 2:1 Residence in Dublin. 

The Montenotte Woodlands project. a testament to her ability to seamlessly integrate hotels with nature.

“

The Montenotte Woodlands Suites were envisioned to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering guests a luxury retreat that feels part of nature,” she elaborates

The elevated suites, carved into the

woodland embrace

.
Sustainable elements, like charred timber and living sedum roofs, reflect her commitment to

environmental sensitivity,” continues Róisín, emphasizing her commitment to ethical design.

What advice does Róisín Lafferty offer to aspiring designers?

## Designing Dreams with Róisín Lafferty

**Joining me today is Róisín Lafferty, an award-winning ​interior designer whose journey is as⁤ inspiring⁢ as the ‍spaces she ⁢creates.**

Róisín, thanks for being here. Your story ⁣is truly remarkable – graduating top of your class but deciding to forge your own path during a global financial crisis. Tell us what sparked your passion for design and what led you to launch‍ Kingston Lafferty Design‍ in 2010?

**Lafferty:**

> It all started with⁤ a deep ‍love for merging space, material, and innovative solutions to create truly personal and impactful environments. I always knew I wanted to be a designer,⁢ but‌ the⁣ traditional route ‌wasn’t quite what I envisioned. Starting Kingston Lafferty⁣ Design felt like the natural next step, a chance to build something unique during ⁢a challenging time.

**That certainly paid off. Kingston Lafferty Design is now Róisín⁢ Lafferty, a successful international studio. You mentioned learning hands-on.⁤ What were some of the biggest lessons you picked up‍ in ‌those early years?**

**Lafferty:**

> Those three years on site were ‍invaluable. Textbook ‍learning ‌is important, but there’s nothing like‍ the real-world⁤ experience you gain from being on the ground, problem-solving, and turning visions into reality. It taught me‍ resilience,⁢ the​ importance ⁤of collaboration, ⁢and the power of pushing yourself beyond your ‍comfort zone.

**Your studio⁢ is known for its diverse portfolio. You’ve tackled ​everything from high-end residential projects to hotels and ‍restaurants. What’s the most rewarding​ aspect of working across⁣ such a wide range of projects?**

**Lafferty:**

> Every project is a⁣ journey of discovery. ⁢Whether ‍it’s breathing new life into a historic Georgian‌ property like the Kenilworth Residence [[1](https://roisinlafferty.com/projects/kenilworth)]or designing a modern, functional workspace, the process is endlessly rewarding. It’s about understanding our ‍clients’ needs, their dreams, and translating that into ​a⁤ space that ⁣truly reflects their story.

**you’ve ⁢received ⁢numerous⁢ accolades, including ‌being the first Irish person shortlisted for the prestigious Dezeen Awards. What advice would⁣ you give to aspiring designers who dream ‌of making their mark ⁤on the world?**

**Lafferty:**

>⁣ Be ‍bold, be ⁢curious, and never stop learning.⁤ Surround yourself with talented people, embrace challenges⁢ as opportunities for growth, ‌and most importantly, never lose sight of the power of ⁤design to transform lives.

**Thank you, Róisín. Your story and your work are a testament to the ⁣power of‍ passion, perseverance, and a touch of audacity.**