Punchestown House/ Full Architectural Service Studio
Set on an elevated site with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, this new-build residence in the west of Ireland is composed of a series of distinct pitched forms arranged around a central courtyard. The layout creates sheltered outdoor spaces and visual connections across the site, responding sensitively to the slope of the land while maximising solar gain and landscape views.
The design draws from vernacular rural architecture in its use of natural materials—white rendered walls, stone cladding, and timber pergolas—but reinterprets these through a contemporary lens. Expansive glazing and double-height gable windows frame views and allow light to penetrate deep into the home. The dark-clad volume to the rear introduces a striking contrast while subtly receding into the tree line.
A series of terraces and retaining walls address the sloping ground levels, creating usable outdoor areas for dining and relaxation. At the rear, a stepped terrace leads to a lower garden level, reinforcing the connection between the interior and landscape. This residence exemplifies a modern Irish home—anchored in place, rich in materiality, and crafted for both everyday living and immersive experiences with nature.