The charming and characterful country homes of Ireland are steeped in historical romance and spellbinding mystery. From bright and vibrant colours adding playful personality, to mysterious and gothic-themed turreted castles and looming libraries, Ireland has it all.What is it that gives the Irish house such a distinctive character? In theory, these buildings should look no different from those found on the neighbouring island of Britain and yet the Irish house is quite different in appearance and spirit. Ireland is a notoriously wet country, one in which rain is an almost-daily occurrence. The climate is cold and damp, the air always heavy with moisture. While this keeps the fields green, it also leaves the skies grey.The Irish taste is for colours that are strong, sometimes primary, sometimes surprisingly dark. It might be thought, for instance, that given the grey air outdoors, dark red or green would be frowned upon for interiors. But on the contrary, they are embraced because these colours come alive in artificial light, a great deal of which is needed given the Irish climate.OK! explores the romantic beauty that is hidden behind the grey with this selection of stunning Irish interiors…