McGarry-Moon Architects: ‘The original vernacular stone structure, splendid views, and our client’s desire for comfortable understated interiors were the principles that focused us. This, together with the preservation and consolidation of the stone structure, was fundamental in achieving an architecture where the old and new complement each other. Thus the residence was designed by fusing new technologies with older building techniques whilst incorporating sustainability ideals in order to create a rural architecture for the 21st century, rather than simply remodelling or recreating the methods and manners of the past.’
‘This unassuming residence is a responsive configuration of skilfully contained views from the interior together with the manipulation of natural light combined with fluid, informal spaces allowing us to create architecture that has some dramatic moments but does not overly dominate the character of the exciting stone barn. The house is surprising which engages people and allows the dwelling a unique character without having to resort to reproduce a replica of the past. The new construction uses the foundations and outer walls of the old barn, but new metal framework is inserted in the interior to create the upper ground floor. All original openings are used without alteration in the lower ground floor. The zinc clad upper ground floor level adds the addition of a new time layer to the building whilst allowing us to create the some much-needed living space within.’
‘It is largely glazed to the south-east and south-west making the most of the views and exploiting solar gain. The vaulted ceilings and open plan living accentuates the feeling of space. The house is entered via a ramped pathway on the south-west facade. One enters on a half level between the lower ground floor comprising of two bedrooms, bathroom and utility space with direct access to a sheltered carport area. The upper floor consists of three free flowing spaces for food preparation, dining and relaxation as well as the master bedroom suite. These spaces open upwards to a double height light filled space. We feel we have created a petite residence at 116 metres squared which is a highly crafted combination of fluid spaces, porous boundaries between indoors and out while still remaining true to the particulars of its place, a refined modern account of rural Irish architecture. The result is a dwelling that respects the original character of the barn and also achieves a contemporary, comfortable understated atmosphere.’
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