Max Brosi

LMN13

INSPIRATION

Timber house on stilts with an unusual butterfly roof. Self-designed and built by furniture maker and award-winning wood turner Max Brosi. Compact and well thought out build that fits well into its surroundings. Sheep’s wool insulation, heated by a central wood-burner.

When and why did you buy the property?

2009, rural location, views, the area.

What was your inspiration for your home/build/restoration/extension?

A combination of a friend’s artwork, Scandinavian architecture, the urge to design and build our own home.

What were your initial plans / intentions?

To build a modern, bright, low energy home in a beautiful location, using my skillset.

How important was the eco-factor in these original intentions?

It was important in the sense that the materials I enjoy working with can be labelled “eco”. Natural materials suit a rural setting well and tend to age better than man made materials.

How important was the design?

Absolutely paramount! Orientation, build methods, aesthetics, workflow, outdoor space, views, exposure to the elements, these were all factors that were considered in depth when designing and redesigning our home. No matter how well a house is built, if the design doesn’t work, the house doesn’t work.

This home was featured on the front cover of the Summer 2016 Self-Build Ireland magazine – photographs by Steve Rogers.

TYPE OF HOUSE

Timber frame house on posts

POINT OF INTEREST

Semi self-sufficient in season, Alder coppice for firewood, Wildlife pond.

ECO ELEMENTS

Natural materials used, primarily wood and wool, low energy house, very easy to heat, small footprint, the design (orientated to the path of the sun during the day, kitchen in the east, dining to the south, sitting room to the west, beds and a bath to the north.) Reed bed, Alder coppice wood supply, veg garden and greenhouse.