The Montenotte's Woodland Suites by Roisin Lafferty

Yellowtrace Roisin Lafferty Suites Interior Montenotte Woodlands Cork Photo Ruth Maria 25

The Montenotte Hotel in Cork, Ireland, has unveiled its €7.5 million ($13M AUD) Woodland Suite Experience, aiming to redefine what outdoor accommodation means in the Emerald Isle.

These sleek, timber-clad retreats perch delicately among the trees of what was once the formal stepped garden of the hotel’s original 18th-century Georgian mansion. Nine distinct suites—five Woodland and four River—have been designed by architects Henry J Lyons alongside award-winning interior designer Róisín Lafferty, creating what can only be described as cocoons of tranquillity that dance between minimalism and nature.

“Taking inspiration from the site itself, we selected designs that suited the natural surroundings, prioritising minimalist and low-impact designs, aimed at reconnecting the suites with nature and regenerating the woodland,” explain John Burgoyne and Holly Lagerqvist, Architects at Henry J Lyons. “Every architectural decision, from form and materiality to siting and servicing, has been carefully considered to ensure the incredible landscape retains centre stage.”

Yellowtrace Roisin Lafferty Exterior Montenotte Woodlands Cork Photo Ruth Maria 02

Yellowtrace Roisin Lafferty Exterior Montenotte Woodlands Cork Photo Ruth Maria 06

Yellowtrace Roisin Lafferty Exterior Montenotte Woodlands Cork Photo Ruth Maria 05

Yellowtrace Roisin Lafferty Exterior Montenotte Woodlands Cork Photo Ruth Maria 08

Inside, the bed becomes the central focal point in each suite, positioned perfectly to frame those killer panoramic views of Cork’s treetops and cityscape. It’s like nature’s own artwork constantly changing with the seasons—no fancy wall décor needed when you’ve got that outside your window!

“The design prioritises the integration of architecture and landscape, creating immersive retreats where luxury meets nature,” explains Lafferty, whose signature approach shines through in every detail.

The interior palette reads like a love letter to the surrounding environment—think timber, travertine stone (that rough-hewn sink!), and sumptuous Irish textiles. Those Japanese and Scandinavian influences aren’t just aesthetic choices either but intentional decisions to create spaces that foster mindfulness and deep relaxation.

“Our goal was to redefine the guest experience, focusing on wellbeing and connection to the surrounding woodlands through thoughtful design and sustainable practices,” shares Lafferty.

The exclusive Clubhouse with its solid travertine bar is the social heart of the experience, where those bold green-checkered chairs against that striking terracotta backdrop make us want to book a flight to Cork just to sip a cocktail while soaking in sunset views.

The project’s sustainability credentials are also noteworthy. Eco-friendly sedum roofs, individual heat pumps, and “Nights-for-Nature” program (where they plant a tree for every guest stay) show that luxury and environmental consciousness can and should go hand-in-hand.