This derelict farmstead consists of a cottage, outbuilding and hay-barn which sits in the rural countryside of Roscommon. The clients for this project work within the forest restoration space and so wished to create a dwelling which achieved not only low operational carbon but also low embodied carbon through the thoughtful selection of materials and construction techniques.

The brief led us to re-instating the cottage as the main living space with a small bathroom added to the rear of the cottage. Within the outbuilding, we have placed a 2 storey volume. A new bed and bathroom at ground floor and a flexible living/working space at first floor level. In time a small sauna and a workshop will also be added to this complex of buildings. A courtyard is formed between the outbuilding, cottage and workshop which will have a pond and permaculture garden. The client is currently planting a native forest which will surround the cottage in years to come.

The architectural character of these interventions and additions retains and reflects the existing character of the site which is an important contributor to the local character. We set out to be as sympathetic to the existing landscape/ structures as possible with regards the form and materiality.

The proposed material palette consists of roughcast render, timber, corrugated metal and stone. This palettes aim is to reflect and learn from what is on site currently e.g an interpretation of the hay-barns structure and skin can be seen in the new outbuilding and workshop.

The new canopy running the length of the cottage and workshop on the south facade protects the building from overheating in the summer while it allows the low-angle winter sun to heat the interior in the winter. This new canopy/pathway acts as the connecting thread for all the buildings within this farmstead complex.

Images : NOJI