Old World Craft and Contemporary Luxury

The 2011 opening of Inis Meáin will soon be upon us. The Aran Island, just off the coast of Ireland, has one of the most unique landscapes in the world. It’s home to so much more than a traditional culture of farming, fishing, and music, it’s also the birthplace of the simple and timeless designs of the Inis Meáin Knitting Company.

There aren’t many places in the world that can claim a knitwear pattern all their own. Inspired by the simplicity and independence of island life, the design of the tweed stitch pattern replicates that worn by local fishermen in 100-year old photographs. The sweaters, scarves, and shawls have a bespoke design, combining the need for practical clothing with luxurious fibres. Locals have handcrafted the pieces for the last 30 years, ensuring that there’s truly an authentic bit of the island in each one.

A few of the pieces can be purchased on their online shop (www.inismeain.ie), and you can find them in independent shops worldwide, but isn’t it always best to go straight to the source?

On April 15^th the 5-room de Blacam & Meagher designed Inis Meain Restaurant & Suites, a White Line Hotels edit, opens for the season. If you visit the knitting factory, you’ll be offered special local prices on the knits. Experience a bit of Ireland’s old world, meet with locals at the island’s one pub, and wander the rugged seaside cliffs, just as generations of poets and writers have before.

Categories: Aran Island, Crafts, Fashion

Contributing writer: Alicia Reuter

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The former banker has always been a gourmet, unable to find the spices he wanted in Paris, he would bring them back from his world travels as souvenirs.  As the son of old fashioned chemists, and the grandson of grocers, opening an exotic spice shop seemed a logical step. Read the rest of this entry »

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Granny Hats

White Line Hotels is a collection of hand-crafted, individual hotels because that’s what we like and believe the world needs more of.

As we roam the streets and peek through the Internets tubes looking for likeminded souls and hotels we come across some magical things.  One such magical discovery was Golden Hook.

Paris based Golden Hook is a website where you can create your own custom beanie hat.  Where does the Granny Hat reference come in?  You can choose the real French grandmother who will knit it for you. Everyone knows that grannies are knitting experts, so who better to make your beanie than a granny.  Read the rest of this entry »