Caulfield Wright Architects have received planning permission to add two new floors of apartment accommodation onto the roof of the existing building at Abington, Malahide.
The architectural concept aims to complement the natural surroundings with careful consideration given to ensure that a monolithic appearance is avoided on the facades by stepping the new walls on the elevations at various locations. The addition of a deliberately contrasting finish with slightly angled parapet walls on the new floors creates an interesting penthouse aesthetic.
The massing and design of two new floors was considered at the inception of the design process so that they integrated with existing walls and services on the floors below. An engineering assessment was undertaken to ensure that the existing structure can accommodate this new structure. This is achievable with lightweight construction techniques and careful consideration of new wall positions.
These 11 apartments have generous internal areas that exceed the minimum standards. Balconies and Terraces have good orientation so that they are useable spaces. To make the best use of existing urban land, carefully designed sustainable developments which intensify suburbs with a low density or aging population should be encouraged.
