Renovations · Westmeath & the Midlands
House Renovation and Refurbishment Architects in Westmeath
Knightwood Architects helps homeowners in Mullingar, Multyfarnham, Westmeath and the Midlands renovate older, vacant and derelict houses into comfortable, energy-efficient homes. We plan the works properly from the start, so you know what the house needs, what it will cost, and which approvals and grants apply.
What we renovate
Renovation projects we design
Full refurbishment of older and period homes
Vacant and derelict house renovation
Farmhouse and cottage restoration
Internal remodelling and open-plan layouts
Attic and garage conversions
Energy upgrades and deep retrofit
Renovation combined with an extension
Why an architect
Why use an architect for a renovation?
Old houses hide surprises: damp, weak structure, poor insulation and layouts that no longer suit modern living. An architect surveys the house first, finds the problems before builders do, and designs a plan that fixes them in the right order. That protects your budget and avoids paying twice for the same work.
Grants
Renovating a vacant or derelict home: grants that may help
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant can contribute up to €50,000 towards renovating a vacant property, and up to €70,000 where the property is derelict, subject to eligibility and the local authority’s assessment. SEAI grants may also support insulation, heat pumps and other energy upgrades. Grant rules change, so we help you check current eligibility early and design the works to match the grant requirements.
Our process
Our renovation process
Free consultation — We discuss the house, your plans and your budget.
Condition and measured survey — We record the existing building and its problems.
Design — New layouts, upgrades and a clear scope of work.
Approvals — Planning permission or a Section 5 exemption check, plus grant documentation where needed.
Tender drawings — Detailed drawings and a specification so builders price the same job.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission to renovate a house?
Most internal works and like-for-like repairs do not need planning permission. Changes to the outside, extensions above the exempt size, changes of use, or work to a protected structure usually do. We confirm which applies to your house.
Is it worth renovating an old house instead of building new?
Often, yes. Renovation can cost less than a new build, may qualify for grants, and keeps the character of an older home. A survey shows whether the structure is sound enough to make renovation good value.
Can you improve the energy rating of an old house?
Yes. Insulation, airtightness, new windows and a heat pump can make a large improvement to the BER. We design these upgrades so they work together and suit the building.
Start your project
Bring your home back to life
Tell us about the house and what you want to achieve, and we will arrange your free consultation.
Phone: +353 85 178 9380
Email: info@knightwooddesign.com
Related: House extension design · Planning permission applications