Leap Mill House

Omagh, Tyrone, Northern Ireland

2004 - 2006

Leap Mill House is a residential project shaped by the careful adaptation of an existing stone building and its distinctive riverside setting. The design sought to retain the robust character and material quality of the original structure while introducing a contemporary layer that allows the building to function as a comfortable modern home. The architectural approach is defined by a clear dialogue between old and new. Existing stonework provides a strong sense of permanence and connection to the site, while timber, metal and large areas of glazing introduce a lighter contemporary character. At the river-facing elevation, generous glazing opens the house towards the landscape, bringing natural light deep into the interior and framing views across the water. Internally, the arrangement of spaces responds to the existing form of the building while creating more open and flexible living areas. New interventions are deliberately legible but restrained, allowing the texture and character of the original fabric to remain an important part of the experience of the house. The relationship with the landscape is central to the project. Terraces and external spaces extend the living accommodation towards the river, while the retained stone walls and mature surroundings help anchor the house within its rural context. The result is a home that balances conservation and contemporary living, giving new life to the existing structure while maintaining a strong connection to its setting.