Egremont is a low rise, medium density scheme comprising 47 PassivHaus units at Church Road, Killiney, Co.Dublin. The landscape based scheme has a mix of apartments and houses in a range of sizes: 3 beds and 2 beds with duplexes, maximising views to the mountains, with varied garden spaces – public, private and play – giving a sense of community and ownership to the occupants on a green and sustainable site. Extensive established planting is enhanced with a new landscape overlaid. The units range in size from 73m2 to 220m2. There are 15 three-bed houses, 16 two-bed apartments and 16 two-bed duplexes.
The site, on the side of a hill in South County Dublin, along with a progressive client inspired an idea that we would make a green housing project. Four individual sites were combined on a south facing slope – a beautiful backdrop surrounded by mature trees – for the insertion of four canted blocks comprising 47 passive units. The blocks are oriented east/west to maximise light penetration and their cranked forms create a series of generous external public spaces including a playground. The canted blocks mean that the site can be maximised in terms of density, while also feeling scaled and appropriate in terms of proportions to their context. Their juxtaposition allows for parking to be dispersed, fractured by landscaping and access roads which twist up the site, their impact mediated by the geometries and planting. Two blocks of 3-storey family houses take up each edge of the site with two blocks containing apartments (duplex over ground floor) defining the centre of the site.
The sinuous geometry of the scheme is accentuated by the unity of materials – buff brick with green roofs and a series of carefully scaled inset balconies that capitalise on views of the Wicklow mountains. Living spaces are dual aspect, shot through with light brought deep into the section via rooflights and voids. Generous landings below these give unique opportunities for the owners to make them their own – maybe a library, office, or playroom. The houses are a collection of flexible spaces designed for all stages of life. Generous gardens to the rear of each have a stunning elevated backdrop of mature hedgerows and trees – all carefully retained during the build and added to with indigenous mature species.
The project commenced in 2008 and went through a series of challenges including recession, planning appeal and funding challenges. In 2023, the first occupiers moved in.
Category:Sustainable HousesYear:2024Location:Dublin, IrelandArchitects:McCullough Mulvin ArchitectsLandscape Architects:Stephen Diamond AssociatesDesign Team: Ruth O'Herlihy and James BrowneGeneral Contractor:Durkan Residential Ltd.Client: Durkan Residential LtdPhotographer: Ste Murrary and Terry McDonagh
