An all-timber micro extension of six square meters transforms the key spaces of this two-storey, Victorian terrace.
Located in the seaside town of Balbriggan, north County Dublin, the original floor layout is typical of houses of this type. However, the dining room at the front was disconnected from the kitchen return at the rear and the only route to the sunny back garden was via the hallway.

The architects’ solution was driven by a desire to provide maximum impact with minimal construction work, meaning lower costs and minimising environmental impact in terms of energy and materials used. Just three square meters were added to the rear of the house at ground and first floor level. The living and dining rooms were swapped and the extension provides a direct link to the kitchen. A new sliding door, with cat flap for feline residents, provides direct access to the garden. The clients’ wood burning stove was moved to the front room, leaving space for a bespoke oak booth in the new dining space.

The master bedroom, at the rear of the house at first floor level, was previously very tight. A tiny wardrobe housed an old gas boiler and hot water cylinder, leaving very little space for clothes. The design involved replacing this arrangement with a combi-boiler in the attic, freeing up valuable bedroom space and, thanks to the three extra square meters provided by the extension, making space for a generous wardrobe with wicker-panelled doors. A small window, which limited garden views and morning sunlight, was replaced by a large fixed window and a full height openable window with a timber balustrade on the outside.

This strategic approach, focused on improving connections between living spaces, adding space only where needed and increasing sunlight, has provided maximum impact for a minimal budget.

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