2009 – Matilde House, Rathgar, Dublin

Architect: Ailtireacht Architects

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This end of terrace Victorian two-storey over basement house in south Dublin required modernization and additional space for the needs of the clients’ growing family. The brief was to provide additional multifunctional living space and bedroom accommodation not provided for within the original house. The existing two-storey return was at a scale not befitting such a large house with cramped internal dimensions making the spaces unusable.

The design creates a rear return more suitable in scale and playful in nature with an orthogonal emphasis reflecting that of the original terrace. Traditionally, Victorian returns consist of a series of functional and subservient spaces to the mainhouse. The design exploits this premise, in the creation of a series of generously proportioned multifunctional spaces, accommodating the contemporary needs not afforded by a typical Victorian House, spaces envisaged for working, playing, bathing and sleeping.