Abhaile from Stonechat Jewellers and Joanne Maher MRIAI
Abhaile is a sculptural jewellery collection designed by Architect Joanne Maher MRIAI. The RIAI was pleased to support Stonechat Jewellers with this competition bridging the worlds of architecture and jewellery. Recognising the natural synergy between architectural training and jewellery design, particularly in spatial awareness and form, Ann Chapman, founder of Stonechat Jewellers, commissioned a design competition exclusively for RIAI members. Entrants were asked to create a pendant inspired by their everyday surroundings – whether home, nature, or the workplace – while ensuring the piece remained wearable and sculptural.
The winning design, created by Joanne Maher, draws on the forms of traditional Irish vernacular architecture. Her piece, titled Abhaile (meaning “home” in Irish), reimagines the iconic shape of the gable end of Irish cottages in a bold, contemporary way. The collection includes both a pendant and earrings, and is handcrafted in sterling silver in Stonechat Jeweller’s in-store workshop.
Sculptural and dynamic, Abhaile reflects Maher’s architectural aesthetic while capturing the essence of Irish heritage. “Abhaile plays with light, shadow, and reflection—fundamental elements in both architecture and jewellery,” explains Joanne Maher. “My goal was to create pieces that feel sculptural yet wearable, like miniature forms that move with the body rather than sit on it.”
Ann Chapman, founder of Stonechat Jewellers, adds: “Joanne’s design beautifully bridges her architectural background with contemporary jewellery. Abhaile is thoughtful, striking, and truly unique - it tells a story while remaining effortlessly wearable.”
Abhaile is now available at Stonechat Jewellers, Westbury Mall, Dublin 2, and online at stonechatJewellers.ie.
About
Joanne Maher MRIAI Joanne Maher is an award-winning Architect and a registered member of the RIAI. She holds a first-class honours degree in architecture, having studied at the National College of Art and Design, Bolton Street College of Technology, Trinity College Dublin, and the Macintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow - an education that reflects both technical excellence and creative depth. Joanne began her career in several of Ireland’s leading architectural firms, including Scott Tallon Walker Architects, before moving into the public sector. She is currently recognised for her work with the Architects Department of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council, where she continues to champion thoughtful, human-centred design in public architecture.
Ann Chapman is the founder and creative director of Stonechat Jewellers, a Dublin-based jewellery store celebrated for its contemporary, handcrafted designs. After completing a degree in European Studies at Trinity College Dublin, Ann went on to study at the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland’s prestigious Goldsmithing Skills & Design Course in Kilkenny. Driven by a love of craftsmanship, a strong retail background, and a desire to make contemporary jewellery more accessible in Ireland, Ann opened Stonechat Jewellers in the Westbury Mall in 2012. With an in-house workshop at its core, she was able to design and handcraft her own collections. Ann is also the designer behind the Stepping Stones collection, created in support of Aware, a charity focused on mental health. To date, the collection has raised €63,000 - a testament to her belief in the emotional significance of jewellery and the power of giving back.