in Earnest is a critically acclaimed industrial design and invention studio. We work on purpose driven design projects for local and international clients from our workshop on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

The studio is led by industrial designer Ian Walton, whose family background in physics informs our approach to design. We firmly believe that meaningful design happens at the intersection of bold creativity and science.

  • A man with red hair and a beard sitting at a light-colored table in a modern, minimalistic space with plants and books on the table, and a white background.

    To do big work, we've stayed small

    Being small is intentional. It means being agile, focused, and deeply involved in every project that comes through our studio doors.

    Ian collaborates directly with founders, innovators, and creative teams who value thoughtful design and meaningful outcomes. It's this hands-on approach that lets us create products that truly matter.

  • Crafting tools and materials on a green cutting mat, including scissors, rulers, fabric strips, and foam padding.

    Our process is idea and material driven.

    Central to our approach lies our workshop and the design exploration that can only take place through making. Innovation and discovery rarely happen on screens.

    The process of prototyping real things, experimenting with real materials, simulating real experiences and occasionally making a real mess is vital to the creation of meaningful outcomes.

  • Wall with sketches, photos, and sticky notes arranged for a brainstorming session or project planning

    Our approach is Human-Centered & Curious

    Every brief comes with stated problems, but the most interesting challenges are usually still waiting to be discovered.

    We approach each project with genuine curiosity about the people involved – what drives them, frustrates them, delights them. This human insight becomes the foundation for everything we create.

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Let’s work together.