Restoration and renovation: Past projects
Case Studies
Basalt Two Storey House
This project was carried out close to Portrush. The client had a good idea of the outcome required. We created sample stone panels to assist both the client and the architect in selecting the stone to be used. Their choice was a basalt built square and this entailed a significant amount of handling and craftsmanship. Each stone was hand picked and individually squared. We discussed the work plan with the client including key dates and project milestones. When project was nearing completion the client decided to add a large raised flower bed using the same stone. This element of the project required significant client & architect consultation particularly in relation to capping the stone. Again, we created bespoke samples with the client selecting our very Indian Limestone capping. The final phase of the involved designing and building entrance walls and pillars. Our team worked along side the architect advising on the height and width of pillars as well as the length and rise of the wall. Again we provided sample cappings providing a tremendous finish to a fabulous home.
Field Stone Cottage
The client approached SMC with a clear vision for their dream home. The style of build required was that of an old style cottage. We worked closely with the client on selecting the type of stone, stone sills and in designing the brickwork around the windows & doors to achieve an ‘old world’ outcome. The stone was hand picked from our own stock and cut and crafted to their exact requirement. The sills we supplied were sanded limestone which added to the final effect. When the grounds work was complete we returned to finish the project with two matching entrance pillars.
St. Eunans Cathedral
SMC has recently completed a major restoration project at St Eunan’s Cathedral, Raphoe, Co Donegal.
The oldest substantive part of the present building is the south-east corner, which dates back to the 12th century, although two pieces of a sculptured door lintel dating from around the 9th century are believed to be from the original monastery and church of Raphoe, as founded by St Eunan. The rest of the cathedral is a mixture of successive rebuilding and alterations dating from the 17th to late 19th centuries. It is one of the most important historic buildings in Ireland.
This project involved full restoration and building repair work of the cathedral walls, pinnacles, piers and castellations followed by a cleaning programme. This specialist work has restored the cathedral, and in particular its stonework, back to its original splendour.