The Brief

During May 2015, CK Architecture was approached by a small developper to assess the site potential of a small semi-detached bungalow with a large rear garden in Hollystown, Dublin 15. The site area is approximately 0.2 hectare. The site is located next to agricultural land and in the vicinity of the Hollystown Golf Course, within a rural village planning zone from Fingal County Development Plan. The zoning objective is: “:Protect and promote the character of the Rural Village and promote a vibrant community in accordance with an approved local area plan, and the availability of physical and community infrastructure.”. The adjacent property had a very similar development potential, but there was no consortium between the two neighbours. The site did not benefit from a full infrastructure as public sewers were not available in the property vicinity.

The Project

CK Architecture first proposed 4 dwellings on 2-storey along with the refurbishment of the existing cottage. The planning department requested that the proposed dwelling, next to the existing bungalow, be restricted to a single storey bungalow. Due to the rural village planning zone, the planning department also imposed bricks and granite stones on the front facades. The proximity of Dublin Airport had implications for sound insulation in each dwelling. The single storey dwelling was proposed as a 3 bedrooms house, while the 2-storey detached houses were proposed as 4 bedrooms dwellings. An access road suitable for a fire engine and a bin truck was included in the design, with street lights and all necessary infrastructure. Delays were caused for an agreement to connect an existing private drainage system to be drafted and signed. The planning application was submitted in September 2015. The planning permission was granted by An Bord Pleanala in February 2016.

The Construction

A general building contractor and a civil engineer were appointed to manage the construction works, which started in early 2017. The existing bungalow was sold to finance the construction of the new dwellings. A lack of funds caused delays during construction, which was completed in November 2019. The dwellings were developped with increased accessiblity and sold to the Council. The dwellings were built in 2 phases. They are now completed as the Hollystown Cottages.