Garage Conversion, Dun Laoghaire BOX ARCHITECTURE

The Irish Architectural Review, Volume 2, 2000

Citation

Garage conversions are probably the most common of all domestic extensions. In most instances the design solution ranges from a simple match of the existing house to plain appalling. This solution is entirely different. The space is created is an enhancement of the existing house, which flows freely from the existing accommodation to the garden. This, combined with the clever use of materials - particularly the detailing of the door and screen - creates a garage conversion which breaks the boundaries.

Architect's Description

The brief was to provide an additional living space by converting an existing garage. The scheme is driven by its relationship with nature, making a physical link to the external environment. This is achieved by creating and inside/outside space by projecting the horizontal plane of the ceiling beyond the enclosure, and by continuing the floor plane to the exterior. The opening of the pivot door - becoming an element which is both inside and outside - reinforces this. Enclosure is created by the strategic placement of planes, positioned to manipulate the light penetration, creating different luminance during the course of the day and the seasons. This creates awareness in the occupant of the nature of the path of light - the concept of a light-time clock.

Clients Comments

We are very pleased with the architect's creative response to the given brief, attention to detail, and provision of a building beyond pure utility. The manner in which the light moves around the space throughout the course of the day is most pleasing, and makes the room usable for many functions. The relationship with the garden creates the sense of two living spaces rather than just one. The sense of height created by the use of windows in the roof gives the sense of a conservatory without the disadvantage. The use of contemporary materials, without being out of context, and the insertion of the building into the existing landscape contribute to the success of the building.

Clients: Carol and Oliver Whelan