100 year old irish house restored with curving roof extension by 2020 architects

a century old blacksmith’s workshop has been restored, renovated and given a contemporary lift by 2020 architects. named ‘ballymagarry house’, the location benefits from uninterrupted views of the north antrim coast in ireland, with the completed project taking cues in both its form and materials from the local agricultural heritage of its surroundings.

all images © aidan monaghan

2020 architects’ approach to the historic site was to conserve the old forge and build on the ruins of the original dwelling, thus creating a visual barrier for the distinctive, curving roof extension containing the living accommodation. together, the two gables create strong basic shapes that reference the agricultural buildings found throughout the irish countryside.

the concept was to conserve of the old forge and build on the ruins of the original dwelling 

the curving roof element is translated into the spacious interiors that hosts the home’s two-storeys. due to the sloping nature of the site, the building increases in height. consequently, the architects used this element to enhance the drama of the design internally. in total, the house spans seven different levels in order for it to integrate discreetly into the undulating landscape. the completed dwelling showcases both the old and the new. a 16 meter-long,  500mm-thick wall made from exposed stone was partially rebuilt using rock found on the site, and was constructed by applying traditional masonry skills.

the curved roof allows for two storeys

the open-plan residential space is spread across two levels

the house is organized on a total of 7 different levels, reflecting the undulating fields beyond

a 16 meter-long wall of natural stone provides a sense of depth

 
ballymagarry house is located in portrush, northern ireland

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