Farmhouse keeps original look

Elma’s farm near Clonakilty in West Cork probably looks much the same as it has for the last 100 years or so, except now it’s warmer, dryer, more comfortable and a little brighter.

Bought and renovated four years ago under the direction of local architect Donal Hoare, it’s an attractive old farmhouse which has kept its original look.

One of the main changes has been the addition of a new front porch, a measure recommended to keep heat escaping from a house. It fits in well with the existing building. The only other significant structural change was the reduction of the first floor landing and the creation of a light-well to brighten up the ground floor.