Penny McCormick

Art and about in June: 1. Snapped with @roisin_nimhordha at the opening of @shesssculpture playful exhibition A Day at the Zoo @solomonfineart - so many red dots too! 2. Made a beeline to @royalacademyarts to see “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton - the scale and vibrancy took me by surprise … 3. Admired the artworks @hotelmarylebone during a recent stay. I didn’t get a photo but especially loved the Terry O’Neill black and white photos which I admired over breakfast. This is such a great base for arty stays - close to the Wallace Collection - and shopping heaven around Marylebone village (Daunt books, Sezane, the poshest charity shops and all of the niche brands I love especially Me+Em, Ortigia and VV Rouleaux). 4. Returned to see Sargent and Fashion @tate - it’s on until July 7 if you happen to be in London. So far one of my favourite exhibitions this year - the detail and styling was impressive. Later read where Sargent got fed up of society commissions and abandoned glossy portraits in later life … 5. Currently reading All That Glitters: A Story of Friendship, Fraud and Fine Art by Orlando Whitfield. It’s fascinating (to continue the alliteration!) and recounts the story of Inigo Philbrick who committed the biggest art fraud in history - selling the same work to different people and pocketing a cool £80m - also a great insight into how works are “flipped” and how galleries like The White Cube operate … 6. Have booked to see Women Impressionists @nationalgalleryofireland in this the 150th anniversary of Impressionism - it’s a must visit 🔴 #artislife #mytribe #socialwhirl #artexhibition #mylife #artoftheday #artlover🎨 #discoverunder5k #artist #art #artgallery #artofinstagram #exhibition #artgram #irishart #irishartist #irishartgallery #artlovers #artisticlicense #londonlife #editor #mywork #dublinireland #thingstodoindublin #dublindiary #summervibes #culturaldiary

I have measured out my life in coffee spoons … as TS Eliot once said and this weekend in London was caffeinated in more ways than one. I visited a few familiar haunts and some new ones - including the coffee pop up at Ralph Lauren’s New Bond Street store (to celebrate Wimbledon). More importantly, I was at the launch of @nespresso.uk new initiative with @changeplease where I met CEO @anna.lundstrom (who I interviewed for our May issue of The Gloss). Nespresso and Change Please are collaborating on a joint mission to end homelessness and have pledged £1m so far. You may not know that all of Change Please profits help people experiencing homelessness by training them to become baristas and supporting them with everything they need from housing to employment opportunities. In Ireland the collaboration will support 50 trainees and the formation of a coffee training programme. (Change Please is hoping to join with @dublin_barista_school too). Nespresso customers can support this initiative by buying some Change Please coffee sleeves. If you are in London this week do visit the @outernetglobal - it’s an exciting exhibition space near Charing Cross/Tottenham Court Road with immersive installations - Nespresso’s (very pink) multi-sensory takeover is highlighting the realities of homelessness as well as the hopeful outcome of this ambitious new partnership. As Anna said “By harnessing coffee as a force for good, change is truly possible.” ☕️ Thank you @kennedyprandbrand @laurajanedwyer31 for the invite and chance to see London in the sunshine ☀️ #pressvisit #coffeeforchange #london #discoverunder5k #coffeetime #nespressomoments #nespressocoffee #nespressomoment #changepleasecoffee #changemakers #nespressolovers #nespressocoffee #pradacaffeelondon #mylondon #mylondonlife #mywork #coffeelovers #coffeelover #coffeebreak

I am very pleased to see 22 St Stephen’s Green has re-opened. Many will remember it as Cliff Townhouse hotel which I loved, especially the Art Deco sconces in the restaurant presided over by Chef Sean Smith, its cosy rooms decorated with classic checks and tartans, and elegant drawing and ball rooms- the setting for many glam events. Now unveiled as @townhouse.dublin the property is almost unrecognisable and has been completely transformed by @_projectorange The new decor and restaurant @floritzdublin has been inspired by the original owner of the building - a well-travelled man called Thomas Lighton who had a gift for languages and joined the East India Company before settling in Dublin in 1790. If it’s true the eye has to travel, there’s lots to take in: Murano-style pendants, lush foliage and floral wall panels give it an exotic vibe reflected in Chef Matt Fueller’s (extensive) menu of sushi, crudo, skewers and sharing plates, complemented by an amazing wine list created by Victor Nedelea (like @cellar_22 this is the place for a glass of something special and a delicious accompaniment). I got to experience Room 22 - also opulent, with a cabinet of curiosity vibe (birds are a feature of the art and ornaments - a nod to the bird life in the park opposite the hotel). The bathroom was a highlight with @roadsgroup amenities - I haven’t seen this niche Irish brand in a hotel before. Guests have breakfast in Cellar 22. It was a pleasure to visit - thank you @hostandcompany @jessmd___ . Best wishes to the hotel team and congratulations @mattfullerchef I am sure Thomas is there in spirit … there’s definitely lots to talk about with this exciting summer opening! 🦢 #townhouseonthegreen #newhotels #dublin #thingstododublin #dublinhotels #visitdublin #discoverunder5k #hotel #hotelstay #hotelbathroom #hoteldesign #hotellife #hotelroom #dublinireland #dublinfood #dublinrestaurants #discoverdublin #dublinbynight #lovindublin #editor #instago #mywork #pressvisit

My midsummer picks … It’s the season for pretty terraces, book events and garden visits: 1. Before visiting @dalkeybookfestival last week I had a late lunch in @wildedublin where tables were dappled in sunlight and the seafood platters and @chateauminuty made it feel very Provençal. That treat was followed by a chance to hear Henry Winkler (aka the Fonz) speak about the highs and lows of his acting career. “If you sit at the table long enough the chips come to you …” was one of his many aphorisms in a very entertaining opening to the Festival. Thank you @thedoylecollection 2. To @hodgesfiggis for the launch of @shirleylanigan1 excellent book The Open Gardens of Ireland which contains info on some 375 gardens you can visit all year round. It was nice to see so many of the garden owners in the audience, among them Suzanne Slattery (pictured) GM of @stationhh which is featured in the book. Do pop in for a wander around this gorgeous mature garden, which was established by matriarch Thelma Slattery, and stay for tea if you’re near Kilmessan, Co Meath. It’s a favourite weekend spot. 3. I visited one of the gardens featured in Shirley’s book this weekend belonging to the owners of @herbertgouldhome - one of the best interior decor stores in Belfast (on the Lisburn Road). I particularly enjoyed seeing so many iconic David Austen roses (pictured is the fragrant Queen of Sweden) and ideas for water features. 4. I attended a reading by @irishtimesnews Book Editor Sarah Gilmartin whose books I LOVE. She read from Service, bringing to life the two principle female characters. If you’ve ever waitressed as a student, had dealings with famous chefs (and their egos) and loved Anatomy of a Scandal, then you will enjoy this book. Sarah shared so many insights to her characters and creative process with Catherine Higgins-Moore @chigginsmoorewriter , owner of @theroyalhillsboroughbookshop . I can’t wait for her next book - out next year apparently and nothing to do with food (her debut novel called Dinner Party was also riveting). 🌸 #discoverunder5k #myrecommendations #gardenvisit #booklover #bookrecommendations

Full disclosure: I almost went to @trinitycollegedublin but opted to study @standrewsuniversity instead. I have often wondered about that Sliding Doors moment/decision which was, to be honest, based on growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland and just wanting to escape Ireland altogether and live in a pretty little village by the sea. (To this day, the East and West Sands beaches in St Andrews are some of the best I’ve ever been to). Fortunately, I’ve been able to stay at TCD over many summers and get a feel for it - long before Normal People too! The student accommodation is available for stays from May to October and is something of a hidden gem. Yes, it may be no frills but what a location. Guests can opt for en suites and many rooms come with shared kitchens as well as breakfast served in The Buttery. It’s been a privilege to see the updated rooms in the Rubrics building - built in 1690 and the oldest on campus. I stayed last night and definitely tried not to think about reported ghost stories! I also took a Trinity Trail with one of the current third year students - so interesting - and got to see inside some of the iconic buildings. To take time out to investigate The Book of Kells Experience is something I recommend, if only to feel like a tourist and learn more about this important national and international institution and document. Pic 1 is a view of “my digs” overlooking the quad - not too shabby!! And possibly the best value in Dublin this summer! Thank you @elevatepr #trinitycollegedublin #mydublin #discoverunder5k #dublinireland #dublinstays #dublincity #thingstodoindublin #discoverdublin #lovindublin #dublinlife #dublin2 #pressvisit #dublincity #dublín #editor #travelgram #mytips #dublinlife #dublinstagram #trinners @bookofkellsexperience #bookofkells #bookofkellslibrary #trinitytrails #campuslife

The June holiday issue of @theglossmag is out today with @irishtimesnews 😎 #loveprint #theglossmagazine #teamwork #editorialphotography #discoverunder5k #magazine #magazinelover #mywork #editor #editorial #summervıbes #holidaymode #mywork #editor #travelwriter #magazinecover #magazines #summerfashion #packingtips #onthego #holidayinspo #publishinghouse

If you buy only one new book make it Seeking Beauty by @veere_grenney published by @vendomepress with photography by @francescolagnese Pictured is Veere’s home Gazebo, in Tangier, which he describes as “the culmination of a life’s work in the business of understanding, knowing and making beauty.” It’s stunning as are his words. I especially love the kitchen with Belfast sink and blue and white gingham. #love #beauty #veeregrenney #tangier #tangiers #tangiermorocco #interiordesign #newbook #discoverunder5k #bookstagram #interiordecor #interiorinspiration #interiorlovers #bookphotography #bookgram

Weekend vibes … courtesy of @slimaaronsofficial called Dining in Capri. This photo, taken in August 1980, is of Italian artist and actress Domiziana Giordano, author Francesca Sanvitale, Dino Trappetti and Umberto Terrelli enjoying what looks like a fabulous “spaghettata” overlooking the Grotta Azzurra. I wrote about Capri recently - and memorably visited to celebrate a special birthday. I stayed on that occasion @jumeirahcapripalace - to be honest a bit too posh for comfort, though the rooms were gorgeous (see pic). It’s famous for its Leg School programme (which I didn’t try) that focuses on improving circulation, reducing cellulite and promises perfect pins! Less expensive, but equally effective, is @thisworks Perfect Legs Skin Miracle which I use in summer. What I did love in Capri were the gardens of the Villa San Michele, the former home of Swedish doctor Axel Munthe (read his book before going). And if you can get your hands on @pamelaafiori book In the Spirit of Capri (not the updated Capri Dolce Vita both by @assouline ) it’s a great read too. A must visit is @carthusia_profumi - I could have bought the shop - and need to go back to replenish my supplies. Jackie O loved its Fiori di Capri scent (available in @libertylondon ). I’ve compiled my own tips for dining in Capri and where to stay over on thegloss.ie … Happy weekend 🇮🇹 #capri #capriisland #capriitaly #caprihotels #slimaarons #discoverunder5k #myitaly #travelguide #loveitaly #myrecommendations #capriisland #dolcevita #holidaytips #summervibes #italytravel #italygram #italylovers #italyphoto #instago #editor #editorial #mylife #mystyle #travelwriters #travelgram #slimaaronsphotography #slimaaronsstyle

Special lunch today @themerrion with @theglossmag team 🥂 #team #editor #thisglossylife #themerrionhotel #wiw #discoverunder5k #dublin #mydublin #thingstodoindublin #theglossmag #mywork #mylife #hotelgram #hotelstyle #hotelgoals #summervibes #mystyle #styleover50 #wiwtoday

Who recalls when “sur la terrasse” was one of the French GCSE role play situations - when the ability to order a cafe crème, some patisserie and a ham sandwich felt like quite a feat! Nowadays some hotel terraces are definitely a lot more sophisticated- often offering guests exclusive tastings of champagne, exquisite floral backdrops and very tempting menus. I’ve had the privilege to visit some chic summer terrace launches and recommend: 1. @dylandublin has two terraces and a partnership with @champagnepommery - try the French 55 cocktail. This discreet boutique hotel in Ballsbridge has just completed a renovation of its rooms, which also brings the outside in with such style. 2. @cellar_22 is a little oasis off St Stephen’s Green where @veuveclicquot is on offer and so much more - I particularly love its small portions and sharing plates (and the warm homemade focaccia!) 3. I had a crisp glass of @chateaulacoste on the terrace of @parkkenmare - where the view and gardens were as inspiring as the company. 4. Finally, not quite a terrace, but definitely al fresco - the drinks trolley in the Walled Garden @ballymaloe_house was gorgeous - rhubarb fizz or Ballymaloe’s own gin and tonic. Sometimes, less choice is more … Here’s to lots of balmy summer evenings sur la terrasse 🌸 Thanks @hostandcompany @fhdublin #pressinvite #terrace #summervibes #summertime #discoverunder5k #champagnelife #thingstodoindublin #dublincity #discoverdublin #dublinlife #editorial #editor #mydublindiary #hotel #dublinhotel #luxurylife #topterraces #champagnebar

#fbf When you’re invited to dinner @airfieldestate and end up making it … under the expert guidance of Chef @markmoriarty1 who shared so many simple tips for elevating food from good to great. Guests were paired up and there was an element of Ready, Steady, Cook to the proceedings in the @neffhomeie show kitchen. Many of us stalled at the first hurdle - getting to grips with the induction hobs! Mark’s menu of sourdough crostini with creamed mushrooms (elevated by lemon zest, Parmesan and some feta) was followed by a herb crusted rack of Irish lamb with a Caesar-dressed rainbow chard. Mark’s tip - add some M&S Finishing Jus - I hadn’t spied it on the shelves before but it is of restaurant quality, so a good staple to have in the fridge. We all had fun decorating his yummy baked vanilla custard with summer berries, aniseed herbs and crushed mini meringues. Having access to the edible flowers and herb gardens at Airfield also helped - our table, overlooking the vegetable garden, was the perfect way to begin the summer al fresco entertaining season. If you are in Dublin, do check out some of the great one-day courses at Airfield this summer eg Bee experiences, bat walks, foccaccia workshops and more, or just enjoy exploring the different garden “rooms” as I did. Thank you for the invite @wilson_hartnell and @marksandspencerireland and also for the photographs @sparkyscoops1 - grating Parmesan has never been so much fun!! 👩‍🍳 You can pick up Mark’s menus at M&S too. #pressinvite #farmtofoodhall #goodtimes #MarksandSpencerIreland #discoverunder5k #summerentertaining #airfieldestate #cookingisfun #dublindiary #dublin #alfrescoentertaining #dublinireland #mydublin #editorlife #editorialphotography #enjoyinglife #mylife #styleover50

Went in search of a bluebell wood this morning with birthday boy Jamie (who is 3 today!) and it was a lovely start the day. If you’re interested in the meaning of flowers, as I am, the bluebell represents loyalty, gratitude, delicacy and constancy. The little flower has inspired many poets including the Brontës, whose father was brought up in Co Down - there is an interesting Brontë trail I’ve taken which gives a lot of background info on the family. Emily Brontë wrote: The bluebell is the sweetest flower That waves in summer air Its blossoms have the mightiest power To soothe my spirit’s care … I’d definitely agree! 💙 @jamieterrierpoo #bluebells #bluebellwoods #bluebellseason #bluebell #discoverunder5k #mindfulness #sundayinspiration #pet #dogstagram #doglover #terriermix #terriers #terriersofinstagram #irishterrier #mylife #countydown #hillsborough #mydog