Casa Verde | Cottage Retrofit & Extension, Mullingar | KORE Retrofit

This project, known as Casa Verde involved the deep retrofit of a traditional detached farmhouse, originally constructed circa 1900. The vision behind Casa Verde reflects both its physical form and sustainability ethos, featuring a distinctive green-painted aluminum roof reminiscent of a greenhouse, alongside a working greenhouse space directly connected to the kitchen, reinforcing the relationship between home, food, and nature.

The aim was to transform the dwelling into a high‑performance, low‑energy home while carefully retaining its traditional character.

Delivered under the SEAI Traditional Homes Pilot through a One Stop Shop model, the project demonstrates how heritage properties can achieve exceptional energy performance while respecting their original fabric.

A new extension constructed using EcoCocon straw panel systems was also incorporated, introducing an innovative, ultra‑low carbon construction method that aligns with the project’s commitment to natural and sustainable materials.

With a total floor area of 278.45m², this dwelling is hoping to achieve an A1 Building Energy Rating, showcasing best‑practice in low‑carbon retrofit for traditional homes.

Unique Project: Deep Retrofit of Traditional Dwelling, Co. Westmeath

Homeowner Testimonial

‘‘KORE Retrofit have been fantastic throughout the entire process. They provided ongoing management and support from start to finish, making everything straightforward and easy to understand.

Through KORE Retrofit, we were able to avail of the maximum amount of grant funding under the Traditional Homes Pilot Scheme, receiving €35,200 towards windows and doors, heat pump installation, mechanical ventilation, solar panels, roof insulation and more.

The result is a comfortable, energy-efficient home that aligns with our vision while respecting the character of the original cottage. For anyone considering a One Stop Shop retrofit, I'd highly recommend speaking to the KORE team."

-Aidan Leavy, Co. Westmeath”

Innovative Natural Materials

A defining feature of the project is the EcoCocon straw panel extension, demonstrating how bio‑based materials can be successfully integrated into retrofit projects. In addition, Geocell foamed glass insulation was used within cavity applications, introducing a robust, moisture-resistant, and low‑carbon insulation solution.

Key benefits include:

Ultra‑low embodied carbon construction
Use of natural, renewable materials
Integration of Geocell glass insulation, which is:
- Moisture-resistant and non-absorbent
- Durable and highly load-bearing
- Non-combustible (A1 fire classification)
High levels of thermal performance
Breathable wall systems supporting moisture control and air quality
Off-site prefabrication (EcoCocon panels), ensuring quality and efficiency

Geocell insulation adds a layer of resilience and long-term durability, particularly suited to retrofit contexts where moisture management and material compatibility are critical.

This combined approach aligns strongly with the objectives of the Traditional Homes Pilot, merging traditional building principles with modern, sustainable and high-performance materials

SEAI Traditional Homes Pilot

This project forms part of the SEAI Traditional Homes Pilot programme, which supports the energy upgrade of traditionally constructed homes (typically pre‑1940).

Under this scheme:

Upgrades are delivered through a registered One Stop Shop provider
A Traditional Building Professional oversees the design and conservation approach
Projects follow a whole‑house retrofit strategy tailored to the building
Measures include insulation, ventilation, renewable energy systems and fabric improvements

The pilot is designed to ensure that upgrades are compatible with traditional materials and construction, preserving the building’s heritage while improving performance.

House Upgrade Details

Existing Building BER G, Derelict Cottage with a proposed BER of A1 (21.63 kWh/m²/yr primary energy demand)

Insulation

Floors
High-performance floor insulation achieving U‑values of 0.12 W/m²K across the ground floor.
Walls
Combination of upgraded wall systems achieving 0.16 W/m²K, including:
Retention and upgrade of original stone walls using breathable insulation strategies
Integration of traditional materials to maintain building performance and integrity
EcoCocon straw panel system used in the new extension, providing high insulation levels with ultra-low embodied carbon
Roof
Pitched roof insulated to 0.13–0.15 W/m²K
High levels of insulation applied across all roof elements to minimise heat loss

Heating

Highly efficient low-energy system supporting reduced space heating demand (~10,130 kWh/year), aligned with A1 performance standards.

Ventilation

Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation (MVHR) system
- Efficiency: 66%
- Continuous supply of fresh air
- Heat recovery reduces energy demand
- Supports excellent indoor air quality and occupant comfort

Airtightness

Comprehensive airtightness strategy implemented across the entire building envelope:
- Achieved airtightness: 0.15 air changes per hour (ac/h)
- Significantly reduces uncontrolled heat loss
- Contributes to overall high building performance

Windows & Doors

High-performance glazing installed throughout:
- Energy-efficient window and door systems
- Designed to complement the traditional character of the dwelling
- Contribute to airtightness and thermal performance