A few weeks ago I shared a trend that is happening where girls are opting for a trip abroad Mother/Daughter style in lieu of a sweet sixteen party. After weeks and weeks of contemplation my daughter has made her decision and she chose, Ireland! Inspired by the hip Irish bands she loves and the lush green countryside she was introduced to in a movie called P.S. I Love You (a sweet love story) her decision was made easy. It should not come as a surprise that I am taking you to Ireland on our House Tour this week.
We are off to County Clare, a place my daughter Sarah and I will definitely be stopping by because it is known for being one of the most musical counties. The strong traditional music culture for which Clare is known attracts musicians from all over the world. In addition are the extraordinary wild flowers of The Burren which people flock to see each year. Clare is a peninsula surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic Ocean and by the Shannon River and Estuary to the East, The Burren is the most famous part of Clare. Ireland is known for its castles so today I wanted to share a Gaelic tower house, Ballyportry Castle.
To cross the threshold at Ballyportry is to step back in time 500 years. It is an authentic restoration, evoking Medieval Ireland. One of the finest examples in Ireland of a complete Medieval Gaelic tower house. Built in the 15th century it has been beautifully restored with careful attention being paid to retaining the original architectural details and character, yet with the comforts of the 21st century. Lets get inside.
The Gaelic Tower House of Ballyportry contains six bedrooms and two bathrooms with showers as well as a guest bathroom at the ground floor entrance. Kitchen and living spaces are on the first two floors. Above a fun thumb-nail sketch from the architect who renovated the Castle illustrates the layout in elevation.
Can you imagine being surrounded by this much stone everyday? Texture and lighting are necessary in creating warmth and balance in the space. I would also add more area rugs.
Below a few more images to inspire you. Starting out with a stone formation at The Burren, the Castles road-side sign (can you believe you can actually rent this baby) and an image from the town center. Erin Go Bragh!
