ORIGINAL ELEMENTS DATING back to the 1940s meet two strikingly modern extensions in this four-bed bungalow in Connemara, Co Galway, making it very much one of a kind.
The mixture of old and new came about when the property’s owner planned to demolish the old cottage and build a new residence, but couldn’t due to local planning laws. As a result, an extension was added at either end of the building and the interior was re-designed to create a modern feel, leaving the property as it stands today.
The contrast is brought home with a black render on the contemporary additions, and a white finish on the original home.
Designed by Ryan W Kennihan Architects, the property sits on 0.64 acres of mature gardens, with Lough Agraffard and Owenriff River just a short stroll away.
Inside, there are walnut panelled doors, walnut floors and walnut cabinets in the kitchen. The entrance hall features hidden storage in the walls and a feature window which overlooks the garden, while to the side there’s a guest bathroom with floor-to-ceiling white mosaic tiles.
The kitchen and dining area is the most impressive space in the home. In here, several full length windows and glass doors flood the room with light and overlook the surrounding greenery. The walnut cabinets in the kitchen are designed to conceal appliances and provide ample storage space, while the dining area features a built-in bench. Doors lead from here to the front courtyard, making it easy to move dinner outside when the weather is right.
From the kitchen, step down to the light-filled living room with deep pile carpet, a solid fuel feature fireplace and a large picture window with tranquil views of the surrounding countryside. You might not need a television, with views like these.
Keeping with the sleek layout of the home, a concealed door beside the fireplace provides access to a staircase which leads to the first floor open-plan attic space.
Moving through the hallway, there are four bedrooms and three en suite bathrooms. Three of the bedrooms feature enclosed walnut wardrobes, while the master en suite bathroom boasts a jacuzzi bath and a floor-to-ceiling window which overlooks the rear garden – so you might want to keep your togs on.
Each of the bedrooms is designed to let the outside in, while the wood furnishings add a cosy feel. One of the bedrooms is currently used as an office and music room and features a walnut desk and a raised level which overlooks the courtyard.
Outside, there’s a timber shed to the rear and a natural stone-faced wall to the front. Oughterard village is a five-minute drive away, while the property’s idyllic location means there are many beautiful walks and drives in close proximity.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say