IVY: What do you have in store for us at Rathmines South House? How does it contrast from the North House, designed by Alison Lewis – who we joke is pretty much the polar opposite to you as a designer?
RACH: First of all, I want to say how surreal this feels. To be collaborating with 7 other women who have such a diverse skills, experience and knowledge has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
And to top it off – I get to do the parts of the build I LOVE most – partnerships, interiors and design.
From the outset – even WE got the experts in!!! Ben Callery Architects and his team designed around the challenge given the South House sits “behind” the North house from a solar orientation point of view.
This challenge was turned into an opportunity, their team delivered a design which made use of all the natural light and both beautifully charismatic and unique.
The curves of the external textural brickwork and the contrast of black steel windows to the façade makes the South House feel softly masculine. Open to the inside, there’s an immediate sense of moody simplicity.
Cool. Breezy. Clean Lines. Striking.
All composed with the deliberate use of materials that are textural, bold & luxurious. Complementing a high-end appearance, it also feels marvellously homely and lived in.
Clever use of materials means they are not only durable and forgiving, but beautifully timeless and classic.