Concept
‘The Farm Experience is to offer a practical space of Balance. Health issues in our society are growing, physical & psychological imbalance is of our time. Evidence based data indicates we would benefit from ‘Back to Basics’ experiences. The immediate environs of this location facilitates an easy accessibility to nature which has proven therapeutic value. As we go inward to go out, the spaces of Farm Experience will provides spaces of concentration and relaxation for individuals to regain their well-being. Aesthetically pleasing spaces can be used by individuals and groups for the betterment of the individual well being. The Hay-barn will act as the place of concentration and inward looking whilst the café and the surrounding walk allows us to relax and look around us.’
Whilst this project is at its initial design stage where different concepts are being tested, it is envisioned that the existing farm buildings are to be transformed. The former Hay-barn is to be converted into a venue that accommodates group events, a coffee shop and professional kitchen and other buildings such as the stone barn are to be converted into smaller consultation rooms and future overnight accommodation.
This type of project entailing the change of use of an existing farm falls into category of Rural Diversification of the local Development Plan Chapter 4 – Environment. During pre-planning consultations the local planning authorities looked favorably upon a such regeneration project.
Materials
Hay-barn – the metal structure is to be preserved and insulated with wood-fibre board. The walls are to be filled in with poroton clay block with an elevated ventilated floor.
Stone barn – the existing stone walls are to be pointed up. The floor is excavated to be filled with insulating lecca clay beads topped with a lime sceed layer. The existing natural slate roof will be secured through lime parging and made airtight with wood-fibre board insulation and sheeps wool with a final cover of wood sheeting to the interior. All materials are breathable and help regulate the moisture content of the interior.
Design Team
EPA upgrade – John Delaney of Geoenvironmental Consultants, Thurles www.geoenvironmental.ie
Landscape Architect – Bernard Seymour of Bernard Seymour Landscape Architects www.bslarch.com
Initial Design Stage – 2015
