A developing family dictated that more space was required in this relatively new dwelling in Co. Donegal. Having spent time in the house during several visits, it was clear that by extending to the side of the existing property, and replacing the undersized sun room area, a much improved kitchen and utility could be provided to the ground floor, whilst also creating space for an increased master bedroom at 1^st floor level. The original kitchen was then given over to a generous and much required utility space, whilst the existing main bedroom would become a large walk in storage space – also much needed. Having been approved quickly by Donegal Planning Department, the finished result has been extremely well received by our client, who now claims their home life to be much improved and easier managed due to the new dwelling layout and improved space created.

Extensive improvement works were carried out to this early 1980’s detached rural dwelling in order to improve the general accommodation and appearance of the dwelling – so as to befit its unique setting and mature landscaped gardens. A solid green oak framed sunroom extension was added to the garden side, along with re-planning of the kitchen dining spaces. In addition, a large, and also oak framed, garage / storage building was created to the rear of the house – Effectively creating a courtyard for private parking and secluded rear access for the residents.

Whilst this rural, one time council built, cottage dwelling is idyllic in its location; the living accommodation has now become outdated due to it not satisfying the modern day demands of family space requirements. Our client has provided us with a brief to create an extension which can house a more open, brighter and user friendly kitchen / living and dining space – which will also interact with the large garden area. The design, which has received planning approval, has met all of these demands, and allowed the previous living spaces to have new uses.  A new main entrance to a central area at the side / rear of the dwelling (adjoining were the driveway / parking space is) makes the dwelling plan more useable, whilst placing the living spaces to the rear helps with both privacy and lets these rooms enjoy much more natural sunlight.

The brief on from our client for this small, yet interesting semi-detached / suburban dwelling was to create additional floor space internally so as to allow an improved family space, along with open plan kitchen and dining. The current dwelling suffers from very cellular accommodation which does not flow easily as well as not enjoying much sunlight. The design proposed has created a more welcoming approach / entrance which will allow users to enter into a much more open plan, naturally lit space, which will compliment the quirky styling of the original dwelling and it’s neighbouring properties. Having recently gained full planning approval, work on this project is due to commence in the Spring of 2015.

This dwelling already enjoys a fantastic view across the River Faughan. However, the existing balcony area has long since proved to be much underused (such is the climate Northern Ireland enjoys!). Our clients brief was to make this balcony area integral to the interior plan of the house. The resulting design, which was difficult due to the structural implications, has turned out very successful on site and the client now has an additional space which still permits the excellent views across the nearby countryside – as well as allowing an openness due to the large sliding / glazed panels incorporated. The disused balcony are has now been transformed into a bright useable room with panoramic views, befitting the general style and location of this rural house.

Having been developer built during the early 1970’s this dwelling was suffering from a slightly dated and under-sized kitchen dining space. On a very constrained site, with poor ground conditions, we have successfully (our clients words!) designed a new kitchen / dining area that allows the dwelling an improved family area which is now brighter and larger than what existed. Working closely with our structural engineers, since piled foundations were required, this small but challenging project has resulted in a very good outcome for our client.

Our client who owns and resides in this dwelling, of circa 1950’s, approached ADMS Architects with the brief of wanting the property modernised, without losing the general appearance of the dwelling. Small extensions were added to encompass an entrance porch as well as bay windows to improve the internal living spaces and views from them. External finishes were changed to bring a brighter appearance and this, along with the landscaping and new curved entrance steps, has helped improve greatly this prominent dwelling – and on a restrained budget.

A complete renovation and extension of this reasonably modern dwelling has now created a brighter, light filled home. With additional space added through both the rear extension and the internal re-planning of the existing layout met with the clients brief to create an improved modern day family home.

This small, but visually important addition to a large rural property was a design lead solution to meet the client’s brief of providing a shelter at the entrance to their home. The house, as existing, lacked any protection from the elements on this exposed site and as such this timber, zinc and glass design now allows visitors to the dwelling and sheltered canopy. The design was also intended to act as a strong visual point, which could help compliment the very balanced nature of the existing dwelling.