Cowper
Historic townhouse transformed for modern family living
This project reimagines a historic Dublin townhouse built c.1912, located at the end of a terrace of slightly earlier houses. With its relatively large floor area spread over three levels but with the entrance at street level, the house has a distinctive and somewhat unusual layout for Dublin.
The design transforms the property into a more comfortable and functional family home, blending contemporary elements with its traditional character. A bold modern extension, clad in brick to complement the original decorative brickwork of the front façade, redefines the rear of the house.
Central to the transformation is the reconfiguration of the rear return’s first floor, introducing a utility room, home office, and a well-organized family bathroom. The removal of a small, non-original extension has opened the way for a dramatic open-plan living space on the ground floor. Framed by floor-to-ceiling glazing, this space floods with natural light and seamlessly connects to a thoughtfully landscaped garden.
The design maximizes daylight and overcomes the challenges of the long, narrow site while emphasizing energy efficiency. New elements are built to high modern standards, and the original structure is carefully refurbished to enable the installation of a heat pump central heating system, achieving the client’s vision of a warm and sustainable home.
As construction begins, this project promises to deliver a home that honors its heritage while meeting the demands of contemporary family living, delivering a harmonious blend of traditional and modern architecture.
Completion due end 2025
Flooded with Light
Floor-to-ceiling glazing in the rear extension ensures a seamless flow of natural light throughout the home.
Thoughtful Landscaping
A carefully designed garden complements the home's new open-plan living area, extending the living space outdoors.
Rear Extension Glow
Evening view of the rear extension, highlighting the warm glow of the interior dining and living spaces framed by clean brickwork and large glazed openings.
Rear Return Reimagined
The reconfiguration of the rear return introduces a utility room, home office, and a well-organized family bathroom at first floor level.
Innovative Layout
The distinctive three-level design is reimagined to maximize functionality and family comfort.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity
The project is a testament to how thoughtful design can blend traditional architecture with contemporary living.
Open-Plan Living
The new ground-floor layout connects the living space to the garden, creating a bright and inviting family area.
Rear Return Section
Cross-sectional view of the rear return, showcasing the utility and office spaces at first-floor level, the toplit kitchen at ground floor level, and a clear view through to the original house beyond.
