Nestled in the picturesque village of Clarinbridge Co. Galway once an old tired derelict building sat. One day Meritta and her husband Dermot drove past, and it was love at first sight! With Meritta’s creative imagination, a lot of hard work, (and a little bit of fate), a vision for a vintage style unique design centre was born. The air of the building was just right with its old stone walls, shadowed by the big trees, and calling for much needed love and attention, all indicated that this was just the place to nurture Ail Ruin design centre.
That was 15 happy years ago.
Today the design centre still has that vintage feel; with the trees growing old but still shadowing the building and one has become a home to a swing, where one can sit and reflect. The interior is centred around a beautiful old stone fireplace which now cradles an old Stanley 8 range, overflowing with candles. The feel of Ail Ruin is calm and airy, yet brimming with delights, often described as a treasure trove, or compared to a jar of liquorice allsorts.
8 years ago it was felt that the old building was in need of extra tender loving care and should be allowed the chance to grow and prosper like most families, so a delicately designed extension was added to the back of the building (no trees were harmed in the renovation to Ail Ruin design centre!) to allow for extra light and an in-house design studio, where Meritta continues to make beautiful pieces.
We love the little village we are situated in and try to keep looking our best for our neighbours and customers, so the front of the shop is a cheery pink colour at the moment, but like the clothes and interior in our design centre it is likely to be tweaked from time to time. A treasured possession of Ail Ruin design centre is the old Morris Minor which can be seen always near by.
To keep the air of the design centre fresh we are always changing the layout of the interiors and constantly trying our best to suit all our customer’s needs, while like magpies we are always on the look out for interesting special gems. We have a little secret to be shared, if you follow the winding staircase, you will find a room full of sale stock……
But shh don’t tell anyone!!