designist – Dublin’s Home of Remarkable Gifts & Bright Ideas
Tucked away in the heart of Dublin city centre lies a little heaven for design lovers, gift-hunters and the “oh I’ll just have a quick browse” brigade… who inevitably leave with a bag full of brilliant things.
Welcome to Designist, the Irish design gift shop that’s bursting with personality, creativity and cleverness, the ideal spot to pick up a memorable piece of Dublin to take home.
What Makes designist Special?
Designist isn’t your average gift shop. It champions Irish designers and makers, proudly curating a selection of beautiful, practical and downright delightful objects that make everyday life more joyful (and often more functional).
They call their mission “Remarkable Gifts & Bright Ideas” — and it fits perfectly.
Remarkable Gifts?
Think thoughtful surprises that make someone’s face light up, not the kind of souvenir that ends up buried in a drawer. These are items you’ll actually use, and each time you do, you’ll remember your trip to Dublin.
Bright Ideas?
Smart, joyful objects that make life easier, lovelier, and a little more fun, without harming the planet or gathering dust. This is clever Irish innovation at its best.
A People-Powered Design Hub
Founded in 2010 by Barbara Nolan & Jennie Flynn, designist set out to bring designers and customers together, creating a space where ideas, feedback and creativity could swirl naturally.
From their talented in-house team, to the makers and suppliers they champion, to the loyal customers who keep coming back. Designist is built around people, not products. It feels like wandering into a creative community rather than just a shop.
What You’ll Find Inside
Expect shelves full of stylish, useful, witty and wonderfully Irish design pieces:
- Smart & sustainable kitchenware
- Irish prints & stationery
- Books you actually want to read
- Playful home accessories
- Thoughtfully designed baby gifts
- Great greeting cards (seriously — their card wall is a treat)
- Bags, gadgets, games & little joys you never knew you needed
It’s the kind of place where you go in for a card and leave with… well, much more. And you won’t regret a thing.
Why Tourists Love It
If you’re visiting Dublin and want to bring home something better than the usual shamrock fridge magnet, Designist is a must-visit.
You’ll find gifts that are:
- Locally designed
- High-quality
- Sustainable + practical
- Full of Irish humour & charm
Perfect for treating yourself, impressing friends back home, or discovering up-and-coming Irish creators.
Are You a Maker?
Here’s a fun twist: if you’re a designer with a clever, beautiful, useful product idea, Designist wants to hear from you. They’re always expanding their range and love discovering fresh Irish innovation.
(Even tourists get inspired here, be warned!)
Stay in the Loop
Designist regularly updates their blog with newest finds, staff favourites and creative goings-on. Their newsletters are famously “relatively charming” (their words — but we agree!).
Where to Find Them
📍 Designist – 68 South great George’s Street, Dublin – Opposite the George’s Arcade
Dublin City Centre (near Trinity College & Grafton Street — an easy stop on any walking route)
Website: designist.ie
Instagram: @wearedesignist
Pop in, have a browse, and let the clever creativity of Dublin brighten your day.
Dublin 360 Tip
Pair your visit to Designist with a stroll to nearby museums, cafés, and the charming shops around South William Street and Drury Street. Dublin’s design district in coolness, spirit and style.
Pics @oops.mylens
