‘I can’t stand sterile, monotone homes’: Irish owner of cool New York interiors shop Swan’s House on her design loves

Sara Swan, owner of New York interiors shop Swan’s House, on her favourite craftspeople, places and things

Sara Swan of New York interiors shop Swan’s House

Orla Neligan

Favourite place: My husband and I travelled to Positano in Italy about eight years ago and we immediately fell in love with it. The colour, the vibrancy and the wonderful energy of the people and the place have always stayed with me… not to mention the decor! I brought home some large, lemon-adorned ceramics to our home in New York and they have been on display in our kitchen ever since.

The Santa Monica Proper Hotel in California is an absolute dream. Designed by Kelly Wearstler, every single detail is meticulously put together while retaining its rich authentic vintage charm and character. If you have any interest in vintage design, I highly recommend checking it out; even just a walk through the cavernous lobby, with its hidden alcoves and intimate corners, is a feast for the eyes.