Meadow Dance: Unique Irish Eco-Home Blends Tradition and Modernity
Nestled in the vibrant Irish landscape, 'Meadow Dance' is a unique house that combines traditional Irish architecture with modern eco-friendly technology. Designed by architect C. E. Bateman and built by the Cotswolds firm Groves, this double-height parlour home offers a blend of old and new.
The house takes its name from the long grasses that surround it, providing habitat for ground-nesting birds and supporting pollinating insects. The site's vibrant spring landscape is a stark contrast to the long winters that Ireland is known for, a fact that the Romans recognised two millennia ago when they named the country 'Hibernia', meaning 'Land of Winter'.
The heart of 'Meadow Dance' is its double-height parlour, created by combining a wooden box and a stone box. This central gathering space features a stove resting on a stone seat made of Liscannor stone, adding to the home's rustic charm. The parlour is not just a space for warmth and comfort, but also a testament to the house's connection with the land, as the stone used is locally sourced.
The house's exterior reflects the local stone patterns and colors, using yellow sandstone and grey limestone. This tradition of using local stone for building has been passed down through generations in Ireland. The house is also located near Lough Gur, a lake with 5,000-year-old Neolithic archaeology, including a great stone circle, further grounding it in Irish history.
To reduce its environmental impact, 'Meadow Dance' uses air-to-water heat recovery technology. This not only helps to reduce CO2 emissions but also lowers heating costs during the long Irish winters.
With its unique design, use of local materials, and eco-friendly technology, 'Meadow Dance' is more than just a house; it's a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that respects and reflects its Irish landscape and heritage.
