AFTER five years in operation, local designer Laura Vaughan has announced the closure of her design studio and gift store in Ennis.

The independent business is to close the doors on its store on O’Connell Street, however the business will continue to trade online, Laura has confirmed.

Taking to social media this week where she revealed the impending closure, Laura expressed her gratitude for the support she and her business has received over the years.

“A big heartfelt thank you to all the lovely people, friends and family who have supported the shop over the last five years.

“I have enjoyed every minute of it and loved all the sincere chats and connections made along the way. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to have my own shop, but it’s time for a change of direction.

“The bricks and mortar shop will close, but I will continue to design and develop my own range and continue making and selling shades on line.”

She intends to have a small stock and shade sale at the end of this month along with all displays, she added.

The colourful store is well known to locals and visitors to the town alike, showcasing a range of carefully curated Irish designs and crafts alongside Laura’s own digitally printed homewares range including her popular lampshades.

News of the store’s closure was met with dismay in Ennis, with large numbers taking to social media to express their regret and wish Laura well in the future.