The Laurels, Celbridge

This property was originally designed as a residential house before being converted to a Day Service property for People with disabilities.

The site was probably one of the most beautiful you could find in Kildare and demanded a positive response within a limited budget. Key issues such as large bedrooms en-suite, alternative living areas, generous circulation space and addressing the beautiful external environment were considered essential at early concept stage. The property is also within walking distance of Celbridge village centre and is connected via a footpath, a very important requirement in determining the properties suitability.

The budget was limited and with so much work to be done to the fabric of the building a simple but effective solution had to be found to connect with the landscape. This was conceived as a very simple box added on to the rear of the building which was called the ‘Garden Room’ from the outset. This box would be finished in a self-coloured charcoal render, internally and externally, to compliment the landscape and provide the residents with a peaceful place to sit and admire mother nature.

The main features include external insulation, demand control ventilation, heat recovery from wet areas, eliminating cold bridges, taping all external opes, hoisting/tracking to 3 no. bedrooms and en-suites and free swing door closers.

This project was shortlisted for an award by the Irish Council for Social Housing.

Contracting Authority: St. John of God Housing Association

Completion: 2019