The Wonderful Barn

Metropolitan Workshop led the masterplan for the renewal of the historic Wonderful Barn and its surrounding 20-hectare parklands in Leixlip, creating a long-term vision that balances heritage conservation, community use and environmental enhancement.

Originally completed in 1743 as part of a famine relief programme and agricultural estate, the Wonderful Barn is one of Ireland’s most distinctive landmark structures. The project seeks to secure the future of the Wonderful Barn, Barnhall House, the dovecotes, walled garden and former farm buildings through a comprehensive programme of restoration, adaptive reuse and landscape improvements.

Guided by a detailed conservation and management strategy, the proposals will transform the historic complex into a destination for culture, tourism and community activity. The restored buildings will provide exhibition, workshop and event spaces, while a new café overlooking the historic landscape will create an attractive visitor destination. The plans also include the reopening of the Wonderful Barn’s viewing platform, allowing the public to once again enjoy its unique panoramic views.

The wider masterplan introduces improved parkland, enhanced visitor facilities and new walking and cycling connections that integrate the site with surrounding communities and future active travel infrastructure. Developed through extensive engagement with local stakeholders and supported by detailed economic and viability studies, the project establishes a sustainable future for one of County Kildare’s most important heritage assets.

Team: Metropolitan Workshop (Architectural Services) / Howley Hayes Cooney (Conservation Architects) / AECOM (Landscape, Civil, Structural & M+E Engineer) / BB7 (Fire & DAC Consultant) / NM Ecology (Ecology Consultant) / MacCabe Durney Barnes (Planning Consultant)