1870 – Villa, Strandtown, Belfast

“The villa which is the subject of our illustration in this number, is to be erected for Mr. James Shaw, at Ballymaclean, about three miles from Belfast. The situation is elevated, commanding extensive views of the Lough, and the Antrim hills on the opposite side, as also views of Belfast town (should we not say city?) and suburbs, and of Belmont, the residence of Thomas McClure, Esq., J.P., M.P. for Belfast. This gentleman is landlord of several townlands in the district, and has given encouragement to build, by granting long leases at moderate rentals.

Strandtown Villa will comprise two front sitting-rooms, each 24 ft. by 18 ft., exclusive of the bay projections; two smaller sitting rooms, each 16 ft. square; ample hall and staircase, and back stairs; eight bed-rooms and dressing-rooms; convenient kitchen, culinary apartments, &c., &c. Attached to the villa there are about thirty acres of land. Messrs. T. Jackson and Son, 16, Donegall place, Belfast, are the architects” The Irish Builder, January 1 1870