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Barneys Ruins, a captivating architectural project by Patrick Bradley Architects, seamlessly blends the old with the new in Northern Ireland’s Mid Ulster. By repurposing a cantilevered shipping container within the decaying walls of a 200-year-old cottage, the studio has transformed a traditional farmstead into a contemporary home. This innovative design honors the site’s rich history while providing a modern living space, showcasing a unique juxtaposition of the past and present.
Reviving a Historical Clachan
Barneys Ruins is more than just a modern home; it’s a tribute to the architectural heritage of the region. The project is located on land inherited by Patrick Bradley, the founder of Patrick Bradley Architects, from his great-great uncle, Barney, after whom the project is named. The site, a traditional small-holding settlement known as a clachan, had fallen into disrepair over the years. However, the Bradley family’s deep connection to the land inspired a restoration that respects its historical significance while adapting it to contemporary standards.
Innovative Design with a Cantilevered Shipping Container
The most striking feature of Barneys Ruins is the cantilevered shipping container that hovers above the old cottage walls. This container, which houses the main living spaces, was converted off-site and carefully positioned atop steel columns that rest within the original footprint of the cottage. The use of a shipping container not only introduces a modern aesthetic but also reflects a commitment to sustainability by repurposing materials.
The container’s interior is a study in minimalist design, featuring plywood joinery and terrazzo flooring. The open-plan kitchen and dining area are complemented by a small bathroom and a double bedroom at the rear. Large south-facing sliding doors lead to a balcony, offering sweeping views of the rewilded meadow, while a picture window frames the natural landscape, creating a serene connection between the indoors and the surrounding environment.
Preserving History and Promoting Sustainability
Patrick Bradley Architects prioritized the preservation of existing materials and structures where possible. The ruins of the old cottage, now enclosing a utility room, were carefully integrated into the new design. Old gates, agricultural cladding, and reclaimed stones from the farm were reused, minimizing the project’s carbon footprint and enhancing its sustainability.
The studio also converted a former barn on the property into a small annexe. This space retains much of its original character, with a concrete fireplace, chimney breast, and a mezzanine sleeping area for guests. The barn’s exterior, featuring a galvanized corrugated steel roof, pays homage to its agricultural roots, contrasting with the modernity of the cantilevered container.
A Beacon in the Landscape
Barneys Ruins was designed to be a beacon within the landscape, mirroring the significance of a mature Yew Tree that stands at the heart of the local townland. At night, strips of LED lights behind the cladding create an ethereal glow, giving the appearance that the building is floating above the landscape. This design element reinforces the project’s role as a landmark within the rural setting, much like the Yew Tree serves as a focal point in the town.
A Continuing Tradition of Innovative Design
This project is not Patrick Bradley Architects’ first foray into using shipping containers in residential design. The studio previously gained recognition for Grillagh Water House, a home constructed from four repurposed shipping containers on Bradley’s farmland. Barneys Ruins builds on this legacy, demonstrating the studio’s commitment to innovative, sustainable design that respects and revitalizes historical structures.
Barneys Ruins is a remarkable example of how contemporary architecture can breathe new life into historical sites. By marrying the old with the new, Patrick Bradley Architects has created a home that is both a testament to the past and a vision for the future. The project not only preserves the heritage of the land but also sets a new standard for sustainable, innovative design in rural Northern Ireland.
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