Ruin Restoration

Taking on the challenge of restoring a ruin whilst retaining its charm is exactly what Chrissie Beilenberg has achieved with this fabulous project.

Situated in the peaceful countryside of Co. Carlow The Bell House forms part of the cut granite courtyard of Lumcloone House. Purchased in 2007, the property dates from the early 19th century and was originally home to the farm manager and his wife before a captain from the British Constabulary was temporarily stationed there and the yard became a garrison. Having embarked on the huge project of restoring the main house, Chrissie had complete faith in her choice of the heritage building firm WHJ Heritage Ltd to complete the restoration of the courtyard buildings. ‘I didn’t use an architect but instead worked with the quantity surveyor who had advised me from the very beginning and whose sympathetic approach I admired.

Read more in the November issue…