Architecture
Residential House Reconstruction in Lisheen, Ireland
Location
Lisheen, Ireland
About the Project
A comprehensive reconstruction of a small rural cottage into a modern countryside residence with panoramic views of Irish fields. The client sought to transform a modest single-story cottage into a spacious family home that organically integrates into the rural landscape while maintaining a connection to the region’s traditional architecture.
The project addressed a complex challenge: creating a modern comfortable space, maximizing use of the natural slope for multi-level planning, ensuring panoramic illumination and view characteristics, and integrating solar panels for energy efficiency. Special emphasis was placed on spatial transformation—from a traditional compact cottage to a contemporary multi-level residence.
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Design Solution
We created a composition of three volumes of varying heights that cascade down the slope, following the natural terrain. The architectural solution is based on a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Irish cottage: characteristic gabled roofs with white gables are preserved, but the scale and proportions are dramatically changed. The tallest volume is clad in dark metal profile, the middle in light, and the lowest combines both materials, creating a rhythmic composition.
Structurally, the house is executed using frame technology with CLT panels. The facades combine dark and light metal profile with vertical orientation, visually emphasizing the height of the volumes. Large glass surfaces feature energy-efficient glazing with LOW-E coating. The ground level is clad in natural stone, creating a visual connection with the landscape and emphasizing the building’s “growth” from the slope.
The landscape solution is minimalist: the natural meadow character of the surroundings is preserved, with only necessary access roads and parking added. Stone retaining walls are integrated into the terrain, creating smooth transitions between levels. Landscaping features local plant species that require minimal maintenance.
Key Features
Scale Transformation
From a compact single-story cottage of ~80 m² to a three-story residence with total area of ~350 m², utilizing the natural slope for multi-level planning.
Energy Efficiency
Integration of solar panels on all three roofs, energy-efficient LOW-E glazing, and natural ventilation through level differences ensure low energy consumption.
Panoramic Illumination
South facade with maximum floor-to-ceiling glazing creates visual connection with the landscape and provides natural lighting for all levels.
Cascading Composition
Three volumes of varying heights with characteristic gabled roofs create a dynamic silhouette that organically fits the rural context.
Result
The Kilsarlaght project demonstrates successful transformation of a traditional rural cottage into a modern energy-efficient residence. The cascading composition organically integrates into the slope terrain, creating unique view characteristics from each level. The combination of modern technologies (solar panels, energy-efficient glazing) with traditional architectural motifs (gabled roofs, white gables) creates a balance between innovation and respect for local context. Panoramic windows and thoughtful planning transform the house into a comfortable family space with views of picturesque Irish landscapes.
Looking for an architect for reconstruction?
Contact us for consultation about your project.
