Grand Design Architects

Situated on one of the most stunning sites on the North Coast, an old stone forge in Portrush was transformed into a spectacular modern home by 2020 Architects’ Michael Howe and featured on the 2015 series of Channel 4’s Grand Designs.

“The site on which our home is located is one of the most picturesque on the North Coast. I fell in love with the views a long time ago but as it’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, I knew that planning permission could be a challenge,” explains architect, Michael Howe.

With panoramic sea views of the Portrush peninsula and Atlantic Ocean, stretching as far as the Donegal headlands, the site was home to a 100 year old stone forge that had been lying derelict for years.

Michael continues: “Over the years, I’ve become well used to designing homes that are sympathetic to their surroundings and it’s one of our strengths at 2020 Architects. I was confident that I could design our dream family home, that would be both in-keeping with its beautiful surroundings, yet be a bastion for the best of modern design.”

Michael chose only to use local suppliers for the build and to ensure the home was future proofed by building it close to passive house standards, which included the use of 300 straw bales for insulation. By restoring the old forge building and creating a truly impressive modern extension with double height spaces and floor to ceiling windows, the Grand Designs project is now completed and showcases everything that’s great about local architecture and craftsmen. View all Ballymagarry project images.