cast architecture: out the front

Out the Front – terrace

typically in dublin, the trend is to make an extension to the rear of the house when more space is required. in this part of west dublin the tradition is however to build a space to the front of the house and to give some extra space to the main living room. an extension of 1.5 meters deep is made, and is then in itself extended to provide a concrete "stoop" and an oak bench. the extension is also cut out to make a deep porch to provide shelter on entry. the window’s corner is made without a frame to give clear views to the entrance area and back to the mountains beyond. the aggregate is exposed on the concrete reminding the occupants of seaside holidays. the oak is warm and golden, making a bench for siting and chatting to neighbours and a storage area for bins. on the inside the bay window is lined with oak shelving and is used to build in ample storage space for the occupants varied collection of books. this frees up floor space as no other book cases are needed, making the room feel even larger. the bench and stoop outside and the open corner window has ensured that the occupants have even more opportunity now to chat to their neighbours as they pass to work or school. the extension too has become a talking point on the street, a new kid on the block.

Corner View – stoop and store