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Garage Conversion, Dun Laoghaire BOX ARCHITECTURE
The Irish Architectural Review, Volume 2, 2000

Citation
Garage conversions are probably the most common of all domestic extensions. In most instances the design solution ranges from a simple match of the existing house to plain appalling. This solution is entirely different. The space is created is an enhancement of the existing house, which flows freely from the existing accommodation to the garden. This, combined with the clever use of materials - particularly the detailing of the door and screen - creates a garage conversion which breaks the boundaries.

Architect's Description
The brief was to provide an additional living space by converting an existing garage. The scheme is driven by its relationship with nature, making a physical link to the external environment. This is achieved by creating and inside/outside space by projecting the horizontal plane of the ceiling beyond the enclosure, and by continuing the floor plane to the exterior. The opening of the pivot door - becoming an element which is both inside and outside - reinforces this. Enclosure is created by the strategic placement of planes, positioned to manipulate the light penetration, creating different luminance during the course of the day and the seasons. This creates awareness in the occupant of the nature of the path of light - the concept of a light-time clock.

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