allan . curran . architects
Farmhouse extension, Co. Donegal
This is a site full of history, on a narrow laneway and well away from public roads. There is a two-storey farmhouse and several stone outbuildings in various states of repair. The house and outbuildings hark back to an earlier time when this would have been a busy, working farm, and it’s easy to imagine the different activities that would have taken place here as the seasons changed every year.
Our clients have asked us to extend the house to add in a new living area. This is a site on which the buildings have evolved in response to need and changing purpose. We are keen to acknowledge the existing buildings but also to make a statement with the new addition too.
We have chosen to create a visually light extension to contrast with the heaviness of the existing stone buildings. The extension closes the gap between farmhouse and outbuildings and affords the opportunity to relocate the front door, creating a focal point for the approach along the laneway. Closing the gap creates an irregular floor plan shape, nicely in contrast with the rectangular shape of the existing buildings. In addition, the extension encloses and defines the street in front of the house.
The roof over the single-storey extension will sweep upwards over the main outbuilding and extend to give shade from high summer sun.
Disused stone from old buildings onsite will be recycled into the extension, both inside and outside to strengthen the tie to the past and to help bed the extension into the fabric of the site.
Extensive glazing, level thresholds, and large doors will allow space to flow between inside and outside and take full advantage of both near and far views.
Completion is due in the summer of 2023, and things are moving nicely on schedule.
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Testimonials
I could not believe when I contacted Allan Curran Architects that someone could be out so soon to quote my project. The quote was under budget and could be completed in half the time of the other quotations. Not alone would I recommend Allan Curran Architects, I have.
Patrick, The Old RectoryThis was our first self-build and we were impressed by the helpful advice we received from the initial planning through to completion of the build. Roci was careful to warn us of the financial implications of any decisions which helped to keep us within our budget. We wanted a modern innovative design which was economical to heat and maintain and we have been delighted with the result. The design also incorporated features which maximize the particular strengths of our unusual site. We also required the renovation of an old mill and the architectural advice received was also invaluable both in obtaining planning consent and enabling us to achieve our objectives whilst staying within our budget. Overall we have been delighted with the project and remain grateful for the quality of the advice and communication which we received from the architect which enable us to enjoy the experience from start to completion.
Jonathan and Barbara, Co. FermanaghA very knowledgeable and professional service. Will make your project become a reality with a no fuss, can do ethos. Extremely helpful and a pleasure to deal with. Highly recommended.
Marshall Clarke, Co. Fermanagh