Our mill in Avoca village was originally set up as co-operative in 1723. Here, local farmers could grind their corn, and spin and weave their wool for clothing for the local miners. Times were tough in rural Ireland and it was soon a vital local resource. At first, only uncoloured yarn was used in tweed for clothing and blankets for beds. Later though, colour came to the valleys as natural vegetable dyes in reds, greens and yellows began to be used. These were soon recognised as Avoca’s signature hues.
We love detail, colour and quality. We love them more when tied together with a whimsical touch. We relish the unexpected and the smile of discovery. From the traditional tailored tweed suits and separates of the original Avoca label, our Design Studio in Co. Wicklow has grown wings and flown. It’s a hotbed of inspiration, chock-a-block and chaotic, a bustling hive of ideas and what ifs. Clothing, homewares and accessories are all created here, as well as ceramics, candles, soaps and much more.
A love of gardening is in our blood. Our base in Kilmacanoge, Co. Wicklow, is nestled in what used to be the gardens of the estate belonging to the Jameson Whiskey family, boasting rare and lovely trees including a 900 year old Yew walk. We love to be in the midst of towering trees and tranquil, landscaped gardens.
Avoca at Powerscourt House is set in one of Ireland’s most famous gardens. Malahide Castle is home to fabulous botanical walled gardens. Avoca Rathcoole has a contemporary walled garden, while Mount Usher Gardens are an award-winning example of Robinsonian Gardens. We also have a kitchen garden in Dunboyne, where we grow a lot of our own vegetables and herbs, and even our Suffolk Street store in the heart of Dublin has a secret rooftop garden.