Ardgwee House is of contemporary design and located in Kinsale, County Cork,Republic of Ireland. There was an existing house on the site that consisted of small cellular rooms and the main living accommodation on the ground floor. This arrangement did not make the most of the stunning views over Kinsale harbour.

There is a steep slope on the site and that was one of the challenges of this project. The layout of this contemporary home is an “upside-down” house, with the open plan living spaces on the first floor, to maximise the panoramic views over Kinsale harbour, and bedroom accommodation on the ground floor. The “wrap around” terrace offers the option of an external entertainment area, accessible from the living spaces.

The external façade of the house is grounded by a stone “plinth” that rises from the garden. The First Floor is “wrapped” on three sides, but open towards the South. The internal living spaces are extended externally by sheltered external areas. Living spaces are generous in ceiling height and is enhanced by clear storey glazing.