Barney’s Ruins
Maghera, Northern Ireland
Date Completed
2023
Sector
Residential
Main Contractor
Direct to Client
Project Overview
Project Context
Barney’s Ruins is a private residential project located near Maghera, Co. Derry, centred on the transformation of a 200-year-old cottage ruin into a contemporary dwelling. The concept required retaining the original stone gable walls, with a new structure introduced above, creating the appearance of a lightweight form floating within the existing ruins.
Thornton was engaged on a design and build basis to develop the structural frame and deliver the full external envelope and associated metalwork.
The project featured on the BBC show ‘Restoration Resue’.
Scope of Works
The primary structure was formed from a modified 40ft shipping container, engineered to act as both the structural frame and external envelope. Thornton carried out full design development, including 3D Tekla modelling, structural assessment, and detailing of all modifications. Openings were cut into the container and reinforced with additional steel, with the unit designed to sit on steel stanchions to achieve the required cantilever over the existing ruins.
Fabrication works were completed off-site and included structural modifications to the container, installation of a bespoke cladding support grid, and preparation of all connection points to ensure accurate installation on arrival. Thornton also fabricated and installed all associated architectural metalwork, including staircases, balustrades, and secondary steel elements within the structure.
The external envelope was formed using Brett Martin Marlon CST corrugated multiwall polycarbonate sheeting, fixed to the pre-installed grid system. The façade incorporated integrated LED lighting within the cavity to create a backlit effect.
Roof and internal insulation works included a mineral wool roof build-up, supplemented by internal spray foam insulation to walls and ceilings to achieve the required thermal performance.
Supply Partner
