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@gemmaginty
Gemma Ginty Architect

@gemmaginty

Our Self Build Journey▫️Architect + Engineer Team (Gemma + Cian)▫️Space, Light + Nature▫️Design Process + Inspiration ▫️London to An Spidéal, Ireland
  • Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
  • Tá an Tine Lasta Christmas arrived early this year in our home with the missing piece of the puzzle finally installed. It’s hard to beat the warmth and drama of a real fire. The ritual, company and focal point. It’s the anchor that was always intended and we already feel inseparable from it.  A fire is a living thing and it’s like welcoming a new member in our family.   Tá sé chomh te teolaí le nead smólaigh (It’s as warm and cosy as a thrush’s nest)   Christmas will be quiet and comfortable this year, enjoying time at home with friends, family and our community. The kids will miss their Daideo, their first Christmas without him, but they know he’s looking after them from the stars with their Mamó. We will miss his gentle soul and company at our table this year. He loved the ritual of putting down the fire (cur síos an tine) and we will think of him as we gather around our own fire this year.   Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas, especially my clients and collaborators, thank you for the business and I look forward to working with you in the year ahead and any new collaborators who would like to get in touch.   Some info about the stove: The stove was purchased from @murphyheating Kinvara and Senje did a great job of the installation. It’s a Charnwood Aire 7 in Gunmetal grey, wood burning stove. The size of the room can easily accommodate the fire without been overpowering, the heating temperature rises to 22-23 degrees, so comfortable and cosy. The concrete bench was crafted by Cian to match our polished concrete floor. It’s designed to have a seat either side, so you can sit up to the heath of the fire, like the old traditional open hearths. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. (There’s no place like home) #irishhome #irisharchitecture #christmashome #woodburningstove #cosyhome
  • Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
  • May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
  • Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
  • What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
  • Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
  • Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
  • Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
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Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
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Outdoor Space is Loading We’ve just finished paving our outdoor spaces, adding 70+ sqm of new outdoor living to the home. Both spaces are designed as an integral part of the house — making the most of orientation, shelter and connection to the rooms inside. One is a morning and afternoon space, linked to the kitchen and children’s rooms. The other comes into its own in the afternoon and evening, connected to the dining area and entrance. Having a variety of spaces means you can follow the sun, escape the wind, and find the right spot no matter the time of day or year — extending outdoor living well beyond the narrow window of an Irish summer. Designed outdoor spaces matter. They connect us to the seasons, give the house room to breathe, and frame a view from inside. They allow the freedom to move barefoot from inside to out — something kids do effortlessly, naturally pulling their play outdoors. Outdoor spaces shouldn’t be left to the end of a project. They should be integral to the design from the start — complementing the internal layout, positioned for sunshine and shelter, and connected to the rooms you use every day. The details: Flamed surface granite paving, 900x600mm at 25mm depth, sourced from @mcmonagle_stone in Donegal. I stacked the joints in a grid rather than staggering them — less distracting, and it complements the modern architecture. A note on budget: costs go beyond the paving itself — factor in stone fill, cement, grout, manhole covers and sealer. Larger format pavers also mean more wastage. It’s a real investment, but the sooner you do it, the sooner you start enjoying it. The paving was installed by @johnny_paving — a seriously professional contractor and a genuinely lovely person to work with. He takes real pride in his craft, treats his team well, and was brilliant at working through the finer details on site — My Dad said it best: “you can tell these guys are proud of their work.” Excited for spring, new planting and long evenings outside. #outdoorliving #patiodesign #outdoorspace #landscapedesign #irisharcitecture
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1/9
Tá an Tine Lasta Christmas arrived early this year in our home with the missing piece of the puzzle finally installed. It’s hard to beat the warmth and drama of a real fire. The ritual, company and focal point. It’s the anchor that was always intended and we already feel inseparable from it.  A fire is a living thing and it’s like welcoming a new member in our family.   Tá sé chomh te teolaí le nead smólaigh (It’s as warm and cosy as a thrush’s nest)   Christmas will be quiet and comfortable this year, enjoying time at home with friends, family and our community. The kids will miss their Daideo, their first Christmas without him, but they know he’s looking after them from the stars with their Mamó. We will miss his gentle soul and company at our table this year. He loved the ritual of putting down the fire (cur síos an tine) and we will think of him as we gather around our own fire this year.   Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas, especially my clients and collaborators, thank you for the business and I look forward to working with you in the year ahead and any new collaborators who would like to get in touch.   Some info about the stove: The stove was purchased from @murphyheating Kinvara and Senje did a great job of the installation. It’s a Charnwood Aire 7 in Gunmetal grey, wood burning stove. The size of the room can easily accommodate the fire without been overpowering, the heating temperature rises to 22-23 degrees, so comfortable and cosy. The concrete bench was crafted by Cian to match our polished concrete floor. It’s designed to have a seat either side, so you can sit up to the heath of the fire, like the old traditional open hearths. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. (There’s no place like home) #irishhome #irisharchitecture #christmashome #woodburningstove #cosyhome
Tá an Tine Lasta Christmas arrived early this year in our home with the missing piece of the puzzle finally installed. It’s hard to beat the warmth and drama of a real fire. The ritual, company and focal point. It’s the anchor that was always intended and we already feel inseparable from it.  A fire is a living thing and it’s like welcoming a new member in our family.   Tá sé chomh te teolaí le nead smólaigh (It’s as warm and cosy as a thrush’s nest)   Christmas will be quiet and comfortable this year, enjoying time at home with friends, family and our community. The kids will miss their Daideo, their first Christmas without him, but they know he’s looking after them from the stars with their Mamó. We will miss his gentle soul and company at our table this year. He loved the ritual of putting down the fire (cur síos an tine) and we will think of him as we gather around our own fire this year.   Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas, especially my clients and collaborators, thank you for the business and I look forward to working with you in the year ahead and any new collaborators who would like to get in touch.   Some info about the stove: The stove was purchased from @murphyheating Kinvara and Senje did a great job of the installation. It’s a Charnwood Aire 7 in Gunmetal grey, wood burning stove. The size of the room can easily accommodate the fire without been overpowering, the heating temperature rises to 22-23 degrees, so comfortable and cosy. The concrete bench was crafted by Cian to match our polished concrete floor. It’s designed to have a seat either side, so you can sit up to the heath of the fire, like the old traditional open hearths. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. (There’s no place like home) #irishhome #irisharchitecture #christmashome #woodburningstove #cosyhome
Tá an Tine Lasta Christmas arrived early this year in our home with the missing piece of the puzzle finally installed. It’s hard to beat the warmth and drama of a real fire. The ritual, company and focal point. It’s the anchor that was always intended and we already feel inseparable from it.  A fire is a living thing and it’s like welcoming a new member in our family.   Tá sé chomh te teolaí le nead smólaigh (It’s as warm and cosy as a thrush’s nest)   Christmas will be quiet and comfortable this year, enjoying time at home with friends, family and our community. The kids will miss their Daideo, their first Christmas without him, but they know he’s looking after them from the stars with their Mamó. We will miss his gentle soul and company at our table this year. He loved the ritual of putting down the fire (cur síos an tine) and we will think of him as we gather around our own fire this year.   Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas, especially my clients and collaborators, thank you for the business and I look forward to working with you in the year ahead and any new collaborators who would like to get in touch.   Some info about the stove: The stove was purchased from @murphyheating Kinvara and Senje did a great job of the installation. It’s a Charnwood Aire 7 in Gunmetal grey, wood burning stove. The size of the room can easily accommodate the fire without been overpowering, the heating temperature rises to 22-23 degrees, so comfortable and cosy. The concrete bench was crafted by Cian to match our polished concrete floor. It’s designed to have a seat either side, so you can sit up to the heath of the fire, like the old traditional open hearths. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. (There’s no place like home) #irishhome #irisharchitecture #christmashome #woodburningstove #cosyhome
@gemmaginty
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Tá an Tine Lasta Christmas arrived early this year in our home with the missing piece of the puzzle finally installed. It’s hard to beat the warmth and drama of a real fire. The ritual, company and focal point. It’s the anchor that was always intended and we already feel inseparable from it.  A fire is a living thing and it’s like welcoming a new member in our family.   Tá sé chomh te teolaí le nead smólaigh (It’s as warm and cosy as a thrush’s nest)   Christmas will be quiet and comfortable this year, enjoying time at home with friends, family and our community. The kids will miss their Daideo, their first Christmas without him, but they know he’s looking after them from the stars with their Mamó. We will miss his gentle soul and company at our table this year. He loved the ritual of putting down the fire (cur síos an tine) and we will think of him as we gather around our own fire this year.   Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas, especially my clients and collaborators, thank you for the business and I look forward to working with you in the year ahead and any new collaborators who would like to get in touch.   Some info about the stove: The stove was purchased from @murphyheating Kinvara and Senje did a great job of the installation. It’s a Charnwood Aire 7 in Gunmetal grey, wood burning stove. The size of the room can easily accommodate the fire without been overpowering, the heating temperature rises to 22-23 degrees, so comfortable and cosy. The concrete bench was crafted by Cian to match our polished concrete floor. It’s designed to have a seat either side, so you can sit up to the heath of the fire, like the old traditional open hearths. Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. (There’s no place like home) #irishhome #irisharchitecture #christmashome #woodburningstove #cosyhome
4 months ago
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2/9
Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
@gemmaginty
@gemmaginty
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Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland! This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made. Many thanks to @cedralireland and @houseandhomemagazine for publishing the article. #cladding #Irisharchitecture #selfbuild #houseandhome #cedralcladding #buildingjourney #dreamhome #timberframe #landscapedesign #homeinthelandscape #architectshome
7 months ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
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May-be My favourite month is May and this month has delivered in spades, waking up to gorgeous skies is such a treat, especially since we have done more work on the garden, we can now  enjoy some of the fruits of our labour. To be honest, it feels like more labour than fruit at the beginning, one day of work will not deliver a garden. It’s a continual process of planning, digging and planting. The work did not pause either during the winter, we were preparing the ground for bare root hedging, silver birch trees, scarifying the lawn, tidying up the flowers beds and topping up the mulch. I’m delighted to see the plants returning after a year in the ground, expanding and coming into their own, we’ve lost a few along the way, but the ones that have lasted, have shown such resilience through West of Ireland winter.   When I get lost in the moment of gardening, I often think it represents a microcosm of society and rearing children, if you give the plants/people a good start with plenty of space and nourishment, they will flourish. Taking a plant that was dying in a pot and replanting it in lots of fertile space and watching it take off is pure joy. Every living thing deserves the opportunity to fulfil its potential, but some governments and gardeners manage this process better than others.   The early morning is particularly magic time, enveloped in birdsong, you feel like a visitor in the bird’s kingdom.  I’ve made a new nerdy discovery with the ‘Merlin Bird ID’ app which identified the Willow Warbler, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Cuckoo, Wren, Wood-Pigeon, Bullfinch, Thrush, Chaffinch, Great Tit, and Blackcap, to name a few!   We’ve also built a concrete bench in the garden, it’s a prototype for our stove hearth for our living room, there has definitely been some learning on formwork and polishing that we can use for the real thing. The prototype is now a pleasant permanent fixture in the garden. Bit by bit, these moments are being created and the garden experience becomes a collection of moments connected by paths and desire lines. Much like life, it’s the magic moments that stay with us and the labour to get us there is soon forgotten. #irishgarden #gardenoflife
11 months ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
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Belated one year Anniversary!   Living in our new home is a very different experience to building it, the activity of making and finishing a home is constantly in progress. I’ve fallen out of the practice of writing and sharing about the build as the challenges have evolved. The human messiness of life has taken over, from rearing small kids, work and keeping everyone fed, clean and happy.   We have lived through each of the four seasons in our home, appreciating the changing light, natures blooming and hibernation. Regardless of the weather outside, we have always been comfortable and safe, a far cry from our friends in Palestine, Lebanon and Ukraine, who we wish we could do more to help. There is feeling of guilt and gratitude that comes with enjoying our forever home.   The ‘summer’ or should I say the time that passed between May and September has been focused on outside work, preparing the ground, planting and nurturing. The rain probably hasn’t been a bad thing for the new plants, they could establish their roots and produce some serious growth. The focus has definitely shifted from from construction dust to muck.   It’s obviously still a work in progress, we haven’t paved the seating areas yet, but the planting has started to soften the edges, I look forward to been able to wander barefoot from inside to out, all in good time. We’ve enjoyed having a part lawn even if unfinished, so the kids could play football during the summer, the Euros, Olympics and the many Galway team finals provided plenty of inspiration.   During the bright months of May, June and July, we barely turned on an electric light enjoying the luminescence of the long evenings. The to do list has not shortened, we just keep adding more items to it and there is a ban on me saying ‘I have an idea’ until we make more progress.   The photos are certainly not instaperfect, but they are a work/life in progress, there definitely has been an evolution when you look at the bare area we started with, nature grows at its own pace and we need to be patient and receptive to its needs.   If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask! #selfbuild #lifeafterthebuild #dreamhome #irishdesign
2 years ago
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5/9
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
@gemmaginty
@gemmaginty
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What a treat to experience the northern lights on this clear beautiful night, after the hottest day of the year! I couldn’t believe my eyes!! Thankfully nobody drove by to see me taking pictures of our house in the darkness at midnight! 😆🙈. Get outside and check it out if you’re still up! Apparently the lights will be visible over the weekend #northernlights #northerlightsireland #clearskies #solarstorm #architecturalform #irisharchitecture #westofireland
2 years ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
@gemmaginty
@gemmaginty
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Small and Spacious   As we stay indoors to watch #StormKathleen pass through, I can take a moment to share some finished parts of our home. It’s so true what people say that once you move into a new home, progress becomes significantly slower and you also just want to hibernate.  Now that spring is here and the clocks have sprung forward, there is definitely renewed energy to plan the summer projects.   Next on our Instagram tour is our guest ensuite, it’s a great example of how small rooms can still feel spacious, measuring 2 metres by 2.2 metres.  It demonstrates how you can use design to enhance that sense of space. This requires planning the position of windows, doors and sanitaryware at an early stage to maximise the ergonomics of the space, you don’t figure this out on site.   Here are some of the tips to make small feel spacious:   -       Keep it simple, minimise the number of colours and materials -       We continued the same polished concrete floor from the bedroom to the bathroom -       Use large format tiles on the walls, so the eye is not focusing on grout joints -       Tile trims are in matt aluminium finish so they don’t catch your eye -       Floor to high level windows continue the perception of floor to the outside, we used clear glass, there is a recessed blind for privacy when needed ;) -       Use sliding doors so floor space is not taken up with a door swing, or door is not blocking light of window -       Use wall hung toilet and vanity unit so space flows underneath and it’s also easier to clean and mop -       Use a variety of indirect recessed lighting, this will give a focus to the materials rather than shining in your eyes -       Back lit mirror also does a good job of creating relaxed soft lighting -       I also wanted to avoid looking into a room and seeing a toilet straight away, so it’s located behind the wall. This allows us to leave the door open to give more feeling of space in the guest room   The storm has not been too bad today, it forces us to slow down and it’s a good excuse to look out at the elements from our protective shell. Happy Spring! #bathroomdesign #lessismore #moderndesign #designflow #dreambathroom
2 years ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
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Will it ever stop raining in the West?   Just sharing some pics from some brighter days from my office to remind myself that the sun does come out and when it does, it’s glorious. This room is a work in progress, it’s divided between an office and a space to chill. There’s no TV here, for fear our little monkeys would get too comfortable enjoying their favourite shows here. It’s a space to look out at the view and surrounding landscape, a place to practice yoga when I get a chance, or escape from the chaos for a sneaky snooze. A great feature is the electric concealed blinds that I can close from my phone, when I’m too lazy to go up the stairs. @apollointeriorsgalway   I’ve really missed having a designated office during the build and now it feels so grounding to have a place to come that works so well and is comfortable and won’t be disturbed by little curious hands when your back is turned.   It is uplifting to have a bright and airy space to work, with space for the eyes to look out while searching for the answers to design challenges. A good feature of the design is the office is hidden by half wall while in the lounge. This space delivers brilliantly in usability and volumetrically. Nothing is wasted.   Room dimensions – 6.5M x 4.5M Ceiling height goes from 2M to 3.1M   Floor is engineered extra matt oak Railings custom made by Martyn engineering Couch and storage, floating shelf – Ikea External composite decking to be installed this summer Green Sedum roof to be installed on flat roofs in the future #homeoffice #skyroom #selfbuild #roomwithaview #spacetothink #constructionstory
2 years ago
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8/9
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
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Green Shoots As we approach the end of Winter according to the Gaelic calendar of Imbolc or Brigid’s day, the days are definitely getting longer, but still not warm enough to shed the thermal layers and down jacket yet. I’m itching to get back out to work on the garden, but it still feels a bit daunting, with the yellow and brown surroundings still in hibernation.   We started the first stage of planting in October and now its lovely to see the bulbs emerging despite the chill of the winter and the onslaught of storms. Dangan nursery in Galway were very helpful with advice on plants and layout, hardy plants are needed that can deal with our robust conditions.   There is a mixture of agapanthus (tall purple flowers bloom mid-summer), trailing rosemary, carex testacea grass, heathers, heuchera (maroon leaves), sea breeze (daisies), campanula (purple flower), cabbages (these will be replaced with summer bedding plants). I also planted miniature tulips, Iris and daffodils, these will be hopefully be less vulnerable to the wind.   Cian made the planter box last September from timber sleepers, we treated them with bitumen paint on the inside and insecticide on the outside and then painted with an outdoor furniture paint. We put large stones in the base and sheets of cardboard, then filled with 3 tonnes of topsoil. Once I had finished the planting, I covered the top layer with composted bark to give a nice clean finish and inhibit the growth of weeds.   There are lots of options to finish the top layer from putting a weed barrier and finishing with a layer of stones, I’m not experienced enough yet to know what looks the best and gives most flexibility. It will be interesting to see once growth takes off in spring, how well the plants will fill out the space and what will deliver the most delight and learning through the seasons.   There is a list of garden projects for the year ahead including planting some larger trees, plants for the front of windows, entrance paving and planting a heather bed around the rockery. Wishing everyone a happy ‘anticipation of the Spring’ or Imbolc. #imbolc #spring #gardening #brigidsday #greenshoots #planterbox #gardendesign
2 years ago
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9/9

About

Galway architect Gemma Ginty is a fully qualified and licensed professional specialising in the design, planning, and construction of buildings and spaces. With a strong track record in design and build projects, encompassing both traditional and contemporary styles.

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This portfolio presents a curated selection of Gemma Ginty’s architectural experience. For project inquiries and to discuss potential collaborations, please reach out via the provided contact forms or email

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Press

Look what’s just landed on the shelves in the Sept/Oct edition of House and Home Ireland!

This article is in partnership with @cedralireland, the supplier of our beautiful fibre cement cladding. I share some of the experiences of building our dream home and give top tips on the many decisions that need to be made.

1 Cedral_Advertorial_Sept_OctDownload
1 Cedral_Advertorial_Sept_OctDownload

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