The SiOO X Story – Protecting the Planet - Book - Page 57
Since Barretstown opened in 1994 it has been constantly evolving and adapting to improve the quality of the experience at the
camp for attendees as well the staff and volunteers. The camp
operates primarily in the spring /summer /autumn and when the
children are on summer holidays and also operates at weekends
and school holidays during the school year.
Flanked by a secret garden wall and castle landscaping, the radiating diagrid pattern weaves and forms a new building which
adopts to the landscape and characteristics of the wider Barretstown grounds and structures. The building blurs the lines of indoor/ outdoor space with irregular shapes and floating terraces.
Energetic vibrant colours are used extensively throughout with
a sense of (serious) fun in mind. Barretstown is a playful place in
constant dialogue with nature, a new focal point, an inclusive
space for all to enjoy collectively night and day.
The existing dining hall by design and condition was inadequate
for the future needs of the children and a decision was taken to
provide for a new building to better accommodate the various
new requirements. The architect’s team decided to create a
whole new dining experience for its campers.
The new larger building, clad externally in SiOO:X treated Siberian larch is a dynamic sustainable and open building, located
centrally in the existing campus of buildings in a strategic location along the courtyard street, adjacent to the existing walled
garden and nestled within the existing trees. The new building is
893 square metres and was complete in November 2016. It was
opened by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, at a breakfast reception
on Friday, 9th December 2016.
A somewhat forgotten woodland at the heart of the Barretstown site offered a rare opportunity to locate the new dining
pavilion ‘floating’ amongst a stand of existing oak trees. Using
the modest ‘tree-house’ as a concept, the building evolved into
an enchanted portal, weaving through and around the forest.
Upon entry to the main hall, one is rewarded with expansive
space and generous views of the Barretstown lake and the remarkable landscape vista beyond. Use of natural materials, both
inside and out, are a response to the building’s fascinating natural context. Allowing the building to nestle comfortably within
the forest while offering a warmth and intimacy inside.
The project was Joint Winner – Best Design, RIAI Architecture
Awards 2017.
SiOO:X benefits:
Versatility to over treat with colour finishes
Ecological attributes in health and well being situation.
Photo: Donal Murphy (2017) (page 54–55) Alan Coultas (page 56–57).
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