Madam, - I read with much disappointment about the decision to deny recognition to an accomplished one-off house in Co Donegal by Donaghy & Dimond Architects at this year's Architectural Association of Ireland awards (Property, May 8th).
The jury decided to exclude all one-off houses in the countryside on principle.
I would agree with the AAI that there may be some fundamental problems with building one-off houses in the countryside - such as inefficient provision of services, increased car dependency, erosion of village and town communities, and inappropriate siting and design.
However, there are instances where building one-off houses is appropriate, such as the replacement and refurbishment of existing dwellings and the augmentation of small rural communities. Careful siting and appropriate design can make the one-off house a positive contribution to the rural environment.
The AAI is in a position to confront the issue by promoting good examples and rewarding clients, architects and builders who create appropriate houses. Refusing to deal with the issue does not solve the problem.
I would like to commend Donaghy and Dimond Architects on realising a skilful building in a sensitive environment. - Yours, etc ,
KEVIN GARTLAND, Gartland Architects, Washington Street, Cork.