M E S H A R C H I T E C T S
Grade 1 Conservation and Contemporary Design Architects
69 Middle Abbey Street,
Dublin D01 P5Y4
01 563 9021
Jigginstown Villa, Naas, Co.Kildare
Mesh Architects were engaged for the renovation and extension to
Jigginstown Villa, a significant example of Irish vernacular architecture, dating from the early to mid-eighteenth century. Although it has been extensive extended and modified, it retains its essential historical character, particularly when viewed from the public street to the north. Having stood vacant for several years, the house and its many extensions required significant refurbishment to secure its longterm preservation and allow it function as a family home.
The proposed works at Jigginstown Villa has been carefully designed to strike the appropriate balance between the conservation of its significant elements, and the introduction of modern services and additional spaces for a contemporary family setting.
All of the proposed extensions have been located to the rear and side of the house, leaving the more significant front elevations unchanged. Similarly, the kitchens, utility rooms, boilers, and most bathrooms have been located within the proposed extensions, leaving the principal rooms in the early house substantially intact. The existing house of 1,550 Sqft will be extended to 3,200 Sqft
The earliest part of the house is undoubtedly the ground floor of the two-storey core. The low ceiling height, thick walls, small window openings and massive external fireplaces are consistent with farmhouses built during the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. Although the thickness of the external walls suggests the use of mud-wall construction, only solid stone masonry have been detected prior to works commencing on site.
The proposed extensions by MESH Architects has been designed in a subtle, contemporary architectural language, to provide a delicate contrast with the vernacular design and features found on the original structure. Although the proposed extensions will have gabled roofs, they are be built with crisp contemporary detailing and have open-plan spaces with an abundance of natural light and ventilation.
The extended areas will be visually unobtrusive to the historical appearance of the property, when viewed from the public streets. The principal views of the front of the house will thus remain largely unchanged. The high rubble stone walls running along the rear of the site have be retained and carefully repaired.
Credits:Mesh Architects - Tom McGimsey, Paul Mulhern, Main Contractor - Ard Glen Construction, Photography by Mesh Architects & Ard Glen Construction
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