Limerick city welcomed His Excellency, Ruggero Corrias, the distinguished Italian Ambassador to Ireland, as part of the Italian Design Week celebrations, where he, alongside Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Councillor Gerald Mitchell and designer Natasha Rocca-Devine officially opened Ireland’s first Cucine Lube store, Italy's leading kitchen brand.
In a statement, Mayor Mitchell expressed his honour in hosting Ambassador Corrias and highlighted the significance of this occasion for the city.
"We are delighted to welcome His Excellency, Ruggero Corrias, and to celebrate the arrival of Cucine Lube in Limerick. This investment signifies not only the growing economic vitality of our city but also the cultural ties between Ireland and Italy."
Commenting on the Italian Design Day 2024 the Ambassador of Italy, H.E. Mr. Ruggero Corrias, said:
“The VIII edition of the Italian Design Day promotes the excellence of the renowned Made in Italy in Ireland once again. Italy ranks number one in Europe for turnover in the design sector, worth 4.15 billion Euro in 2022. Italian design performs very well in Ireland and Italian furniture exports reached 45 million Euro in 2022, with 12.5% imported into Ireland, with still a great potential to explore."
Aine Browne, a Limerick native currently residing in Italy with her Italian husband and children, shared her journey to bringing Cucine Lube to her hometown.
"Having witnessed the enduring quality of Cucine Lube kitchens during my time in Italy, I felt compelled to introduce this brand to Limerick. We are proud to partner with a family-run business that upholds world-class manufacturing standards and prioritises sustainability."
The Cucine Lube Factory, known for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, has been powered by solar energy since 2010. Aine expressed gratitude for the support received from the local community and emphasised plans for expansion across the country in the coming years.
Brand Ambassador Natasha Rocca-Devine, of the NRD Design Studio, an Irish designer with Italian heritage, conveyed her excitement about representing Cucine Lube.
"As someone deeply rooted in both Irish and Italian cultures, I am thrilled to be part of this venture. The versatility and quality of Cucine Lube kitchens are unmatched, and I look forward to exploring the manufacturing process firsthand."
Natasha encouraged attendees to explore the showroom and discover the diverse range of kitchen options offered by Cucine Lube.
"I invite everyone to experience the craftsmanship and innovation behind Cucine Lube kitchens. My personal favourite, The Nook, exemplifies the elegance and functionality that define this brand."
Italian Design Week has been a showcase of creativity and craftsmanship in Ireland and Aine Browne, Seamus Browne, and their team are delighted to have hosted an event outside Dublin.
"We are thrilled to be a part of Italian Design Week and look forward to contributing to its celebration of design excellence in Limerick."