Today’s post is an homage to Robert O’Byrne, The Irish Aesthete. I had the pleasure of meeting Robert in Ireland last weekend; my sister asked him to a merry dinner.
Yesterday morning I set my alarm for 4.45 am but at 4.15 I was woken by a loud bang and some shrill screams. There was a serious car crash and four police cars and an ambulance were still outside when I left to catch the tube at 5.20.
Now I am in France and I’d like to show you where I am staying attempting to capture what Robert observes in his posts. His website has well executed pictures of Irish architecture, bringing out detail that other people would miss. Let’s see if I can capture something of the atmosphere of this old hunting lodge.
Many original parts have been retained. The stairs are new and don’t pretend otherwise, beautifully made in French oak by an English joiner. The overall effect is of apparent simplicity but much thought has gone into achieving this. It is a triumph of under-stated design using old materials – juxtaposing them with necessary modernity – without being thoroughly modern.
Christopher,
Thank you for letting us know of Robert O’Byrne’s blog – yet another that must be read.
You may also know of Patrick Comerford’s blog – Irish, architectural and uniquely ecclesiastical.
http://www.patrickcomerford.com
I sometimes read Patrick Comerford’s blog and usually find it full of interest.
Dear Christopher,
Thank you for the ‘hommage’ (since you are in France): most kind and flattering. As if this old dog can teach you any new tricks…
Meanwhile I trust you enjoyed your time last week in the west of Ireland, even if the fish weren’t biting.