Avondale
This project considers the addition of a semi-independent living space to an existing detached house in south Dublin.
The existing property, part of a development of (originally) single-storey houses, is notable for the spaciousness of its site, and the significant drop in level between the ground floor if the house and the long, sloping rear garden. This transition in levels currently creates something of a disconnection between house and garden, despite the existing, stepping rear terraces.
Our project proposes a new studio apartment on the site of an existing side/rear garage. The design balances a number of competing requirements:
The new studio floor level should ideally be level with that of the existing house (for convenient circulation), but would also benefit from being closer to the lower garden level;
It should be possible for the new studio to be used in a way which is either integrated with, or independent from, the existing house, depending on future requirements.
For the same reason, the living space of the new studio should have an adjustable degree of connection with the rear terrace.
The design solution is indicated in drawings here, which indicate the existing and proposed conditions.
A compact circulation space in the proposed studio acts as a connecting area to the existing house, to a new independent access, and to studio bathroom and storage spaces. The studio is designed over a split level, providing a higher ceiling over the living space, and a view from the upper bedroom area out over the living space to the rear garden, maximising the spatial quality of this compact sleeping zone. High level windows between the lower living area and the external terrace allow to the studio to take advantage of south and south-western light while maintaining a degree of privacy. The existing house is finished in white painted render with white painted brick detailing, The proposed studio will be finished in painted brick.
Status: This project is currently in the planning stage.