This project represents InsideOut’s first venture into the Republic of Ireland, a medium sized house extension and refurbishment of one of our own architects’ family home in Dublin, completed in early 2015.
The clients wanted something spacious and light that would connect them to their sizeable garden, which previously had been hidden from sight by a blank rear wall. A large amount of glazing was used to create a panoramic view out. A roof light runs the length of the extension to allow evening light to enter this predominantly north-facing space and the more solid elements of the extension were built in timber frame and exposed as much as possible within the space.
Not only did the extensive glazing bring large amounts of light into the home, but it dramatically increased the solar gain of the space, transforming the dining and kitchen from draughty rooms to warm open spaces that helped heat the entire home.
It was exciting to see the change of the family’s use of the house from beginning to end. The creation of an open plan also transformed the social use of the space. The original ground floor was broken into a series of small rooms that were both inefficient and isolated. This extension has created a space large enough for the entire family to gather and engage with the garden, encouraging family meals and conversation.