Project: The Residences at Sandford Lodge
Architecture: Shay Cleary Architects
Location: Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland
Area: 2672 m2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Jamie Hackett
The Residences at Sandford Lodge, Dublin 6 comprise the first completed Low-Rise, High-Density Residential Development in Ireland. Building on Shay Cleary Architects’ long-term research into high-quality, low-rise, high-density design, the project delivers spacious, high-amenity units with generous private terraces, gardens, and superb natural light from double and triple aspect exposures.
Context and Concept
Set within a mature residential context, the scheme achieves an impressive density of approximately 100 units per hectare without exceeding three floors. This low-rise approach fits seamlessly into the surrounding neighborhood while providing a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional high-rise developments. The design creates a small residential enclave that maintains distinct character through careful massing and a thoughtful spatial arrangement.
Layout and Program
The development consists of 36 high-quality residential garden apartments and duplexes arranged into twelve “houses” across two terraces. Each “house” contains three apartments:
– Two one-bed units on the ground floor, each with its own private garden courtyard.
– A two-storey two-bed duplex above, accessed by an external staircase that leads to a generous entrance terrace. This duplex offers two private, interconnected terraces—one at the kitchen-dining-living level and another at the bedroom level.
The ground-floor units open onto a formal triangular lawn that is centrally located and axially related to the protected Sandford Lodge building. A smaller, informal garden retaining some mature trees is also created at the southern end of the site.
Design Details and Materials
Sensitive massing and a careful arrangement of internal spaces address challenges of proximity, sunlight, daylight, and privacy—key issues on brown-field or inner suburban infill sites. The design features a highly articulated building form that creates a contemporary aesthetic while maintaining a respectful dialogue with its heritage context. For instance, buff-colored brick with flush pointing adds richness and texture to the extensive wall surfaces. This is complemented by bespoke precast, color-matched coping units, and brick-clad lintels. Discreet glazing elements in a subtle bronze metallic finish further integrate with the brickwork, enhancing the overall visual harmony.
Creating a Harmonious Living Environment
Overall, the Residences at Sandford Lodge create a distinct residential enclave that prioritizes quality of life. The central formal lawn and adjoining terraces weave a connection between private and public spaces. This thoughtful design not only preserves the character of the historic environment but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable, low-rise, high-density housing in Ireland.
