We’re pleased to have been involved with this project for midantrimanimalsanctuary based on Greystone Road, Antrim.

We’re almost there– we’re putting the finishing touches to our enrichment and activity areas including a puppy unit, meet & greet building and cat garden.

Fast forward to August 2022….. @sdsarchitects gained planning permission and building control in place. We finally appointed our builder, D McKay Contractors and the real work commenced. At this early stage, we identified an opportunity to make a larger kennel space for our fab long-termers so they could enjoy some additional luxuries of their very own. Our meet and greet and puppy unit were the first part of the work completed and then moved forward to the outside run spaces.

We’re so excited to welcome you all along on Saturday at 1 p.m. for a look around the new facilities. We’ll even have a Dog Show including classes such as Most Handsome Gent, Loveliest Lady, Precious Pup, Best Paw Shaker, Best Rescue (our favourite) and Pet Most Like its Owner.

Your support helped make this dream a reality so come along and celebrate it with us. See you all there!

Designing a modern Irish house involves blending traditional elements with contemporary features to create a comfortable and stylish home that reflects the charm of Ireland’s rural landscapes. Here’s an outline of key design aspects to consider:

Exterior

• Use a combination of natural materials like stone, wood, and slate for the façade.
• Opt for a low-pitched roof with a thatched or slate finish.
• Incorporate large windows to maximize natural light and connect with the surroundings.
• Add a welcoming front porch with a cosy seating area.

Layout and Floor Plan:

• Emphasize an open floor plan that facilitates a seamless flow between living spaces.
• Create a spacious, light-filled living area that serves as the heart of the home, including a fireplace or stove for warmth and ambience.
• Design an open kitchen and dining area that encourages social interaction and entertaining.
• Include a multi-purpose room that can function as a home office or guest bedroom.
• Allocate space for a utility room or mudroom to accommodate outdoor gear and laundry facilities.
• Consider a separate wing for the bedrooms to ensure privacy and tranquillity.

Interior Design:

• Choose a colour palette inspired by Ireland’s landscapes, such as soft greens, earthy browns, and serene blues.
• Incorporate natural textures like exposed brick or stone walls, hardwood floors, and woven textiles.
• Install large windows with scenic views, accentuating the connection to the outdoors.
• Include traditional elements like a farmhouse-style kitchen sink, wooden ceiling beams, and built-in storage.
• Integrate modern amenities such as underfloor heating, smart home technology, and energy-efficient appliances.
• Use comfortable furnishings with a mix of traditional and contemporary styles to create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.

Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces:

• Design a garden that complements the natural surroundings, incorporating native plants and flowers.
• Create outdoor seating areas with comfortable furniture, where residents can relax and enjoy the views.
• Install pathways that wind through the garden and connect different areas of the property.
• Consider adding a patio or deck for outdoor dining and entertaining.
• Incorporate eco-friendly elements such as rainwater harvesting systems and native plantings to promote sustainability.

Remember, this is just an overview, and the actual design will depend on your preferences, budget, and specific site conditions.
Voted in the 20 Irish Architects, working with Slemish Design Studio, you’ll get a practice that is experienced in designing a Modern Irish House that can help you refine the concept and bring it to life.

Benefits of Inside-Outside Living

There are many benefits of embracing inside-outside living, such as:

• Increasing the natural light in the home, which can improve mood, health and energy levels.
• Expanding the living space and creating more options for entertaining, relaxing and enjoying the views.
• Enhancing the aesthetic appeal and value of the home by adding visual interest and harmony.
• Reducing the environmental impact and energy costs by using less artificial lighting, heating and cooling.

How to Achieve Inside-Outside Living

There are different ways to achieve inside-outside living, depending on the size, layout and location of the home. Some of the common methods are:

• Installing large sliding or folding doors that can open up the indoor space to the outdoor area, creates a seamless transition and a sense of openness.
• In creating a covered patio or deck that can be used as an extension of the living room or dining room, with comfortable furniture, lighting and accessories that match the interior style.
• Adding an outdoor kitchen or barbeque area that can be used for cooking and dining al fresco, with a sink, fridge, stove and storage that make it convenient and practical.
• Building a pergola or gazebo that can provide shade, privacy and shelter from the elements, while adding charm and character to the garden.
• Incorporating plants, flowers and trees into both the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a natural link and a fresh atmosphere.
• Using similar materials, colours and textures for indoor and outdoor floors, walls and furniture creates a cohesive and harmonious look.
  
  

Examples of Inside-Outside Living

Inside-outside living can be achieved in different styles and scales, depending on the personal preference and budget of the homeowner. Here are some examples of inside-outside living from different sources:

• A modern home with a large sliding glass door that opens up to a patio area with a fire pit, lounge chairs and dining.
• A modern home with a patio that features a fireplace, a sofa, and an entertaining area ².
• A family home with patio doors that connects the living room to the outside patio with a barbeque area, outdoor kitchen

Inside-outside living is a trend that can transform any home into a more inviting, spacious and beautiful space. By following some simple tips and ideas, anyone can achieve inside-outside living and enjoy the benefits of being closer to nature.

feel free to contact our office via social media/email/phone to see how we can help you, with your project.

A concept for a local bar & restaurant to give it a “facelift” with an additional boutique hotel extension.
keeping with the traditional look for the bar & restaurant, we decided on a modern design for the extension.

Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology: Slemish Design Studio Architects

Picking up the award for Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology was Slemish Design Studio Architects, recognised for its thoughtful incorporation of smart technology into client projects to help elevate the daily experience and enhance modern living.

Working on projects across the UK and Ireland from bespoke dwellings, barn conversions and extensions to community, commercial, office, housing and industrial developments, the business engages in both contemporary and traditional architecture.

A focus is on using local traditions and materials appropriate for each site while ensuring the design and functionality are never diminished.

Taking influence from across the globe, Slemish Design Studio Architects’ aim is to help clients design, develop and construct the most appropriate and inspiring project meeting their needs.

The business is at the forefront of quality and innovative smart home technology, striving to create an architecture which encompasses the innovative and creative use of products and materials in finding solutions to design challenges, adding value through increased efficiency, control and customisation, while enhancing modern living and the adaptability of its projects.

Its design process allows for a clear and meticulous, client-specific plan, that turns each individual’s requirements into reality.

By placing clients at the centre of its ethos, the business establishes an inclusive and holistic design approach which enhances and exceeds a client’s brief by entirely changing how they live, working closely together to elevate daily experiences to the next level.

Awarding Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology to Slemish Design Studio Architects, judges praised the entry as: “a carefully considered and detailed entry that illuminates the pathway to Net Zero Carbon.”

Steven Bell and Joe Magill, partners of Slemish Design Studio Architects, said:

“We are delighted to have won this prestigious award in our 10th year as a practice.
“We would also like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us over the years and are very grateful to showcase our talent again at the Belfast Telegraph awards.”

The above text was taken from the Belfast Telegraph article by Margaret Canning