Atlantic Coastal Retreat

This retreat's dramatic location on the edge of the North Atlantic Ocean presented us with a unique opportunity to create a home that not only respects its environment but also celebrates it.

Our client, the long-term owner of the existing bungalow, approached us with the desire to create a new family home that would harmonize with the rugged beauty of the Irish coastline. We embraced this challenge, drawing inspiration from the vernacular architecture and the raw, elemental nature of the site.

The design concept revolves around the traditional gable form, which we've employed as a device to frame breathtaking views of the sea. This architectural gesture not only pays homage to local building traditions but also creates a powerful visual connection between the interior spaces and the vast ocean beyond.

Our plan retains the footprint of the original bungalow, linking it with an offset gabled section. This configuration creates a series of interlinked family spaces that blur the boundaries between inside and outside, allowing occupants to fully immerse themselves in the coastal environment.

The material palette is deeply rooted in the local context. Inspired by the presence of granite walls in the landscape and adjacent ruins, we've incorporated robust granite walls into our design. These walls are strategically positioned to maximize solar gain during the winter months, enhancing the home's energy efficiency.

The roof, clad in traditional slate, maintains a low profile when viewed from the beach. We've integrated solar panels on the south-facing slope, carefully concealed to preserve the aesthetic integrity of the design while harnessing renewable energy.

Sustainability is at the core of this project. We've leveraged the site's orientation and natural resources to create a home that approaches Net Zero Energy rating. This includes passive solar design, high-performance insulation, and state-of-the-art mechanical systems that work in concert with the building's form and materials.

The result is a home that is both a sanctuary for family life and a testament to sensitive, sustainable design. It stands as a model for how contemporary architecture can respond to and enhance even the most challenging and beautiful of natural settings.