The Lodge

Built over 100 years ago the craftsmanship used to build this original old stone cottage shows real artisans at work. We set out to retain the authenticity of the original build and to bring it back to life after 60 years of neglect. It has been a labour of love for the building itself and the deep roots we have with this part of Leitrim. It is our 'home' in Ireland which is reflected in the quality of the re-build and choice of interiors.

The original stone cottage is highlighted by bare stone both outside and inside showing off the original grand fire place, original wall joists and even the metal rings built into the stone to harness the animals during the winter months. This is sharply contrasted by the new built extension with its clean lines, white walls and glass.

Throughout the house we have tried to bring in as much natural light as possible with a floor to ceiling glass wall along the back wall of the kitchen and a stunning glass extension to the side of the house with views across the valley capturing the continuous changing skies and setting sun on the Western horizon.

Having discovered the monolithic fireplace we needed to show it off in all its glory and created a double height lounge area with mezzanine level adding to the sense of light and space.

Leading off the lounge area is the high quality kitchen made and fitted by a local craftsman. The granite worktops are in keeping with using natural materials and the central island often becomes the social hub of the house.

Upstairs the views from the mezzanine are framed by the windows and the master bedroom with its 2 large windows capture the beauty of the valley beyond. The bedroom is set off by a luxurious en-suite bathroom with bath and separate shower with windows providing light and great views.

The interiors have been chosen to suite our style and comfort and we have furnished it with old family favourites, stylish mid-century pieces, sumptuous sofas and comfortable mattresses.The natural oak flooring throughout brings a sense of harmony to the space.

The downstairs twin room is a cosy, calm space. A handy downstairs toilet is next door.

On the mezzanine floor a double pull down bed can sleep 2 people very comfortably.

A family bathroom is located just beside the mezzanine.

Enjoy the spectacular views down the valley, the stunning sunrises over Cuilcagh mountain and sublime sunsets.

Outside patio surrounded by flower beds with stunning views from the bank behind the house.

Downstairs

• Open plan living with kitchen, lounge and glass conservatory creating a natural flow from one room to another.
• High end, fully equipped modern kitchen
• Lounge running the full length of the cottage featuring double height ceiling at one end and cosy TV area at the other end.
• Contemporary Floor to Ceiling Glass Conservatory used as dining room and reading room with stunning views.
• Twin bedroom with views down the valley
• Utility room/boot room with washing machine, tumble dryer, microwave, ironing board, iron, hairdryer.
• Toilet

Upstairs

• Master bedroom with Super King size bed and wonderful views. Luxurious en-suite bathroom with freestanding bath and separate shower.
• Mezzanine area with Day bed, chaise longue and double sofa bed. Large family bathroom with shower
• Open walkway looking down on lounge and kitchen.

Outside

• Beautiful front garden bordered by dry stone wall and native plants. Steep grass bank to the back.
• Patio area with table and chairs
• Parking for 3 cars
• Garage for bikes

Eco Credientals

• Ground Source heating
• Solar panels
• Red Cedar Wood cladding back half of house
• Under floor heating throughout

Other Features

• Towels and bed linen supplied
• Free WIFI

History of the re-build and renovation

A local estate agent showed us this house in 2006 and we immediately new it was what we were looking for. A superbly built classic cottage using the warm, caramel Cullentragh Stone. It didn’t matter it had been derelict for the last 60 years, had no doors or windows, a tree growing out of the chimney and a ‘fern jungle’ growing downstairs.

Its setting, south faced, perched on the side of a mountain with panoramic views down the valley towards Enniskillen one way and The Wild Atlantic the other way was breathtaking.

We started work in January 2008 doing much of the initial work ourselves and then used local craftsmen, including stone masons, carpenters, a 'renewal energy' expert and an iron monger, most of who are our neighbours. We have re-cycled all the original stone and the original flagstones from the kitchen.