Most Irish local authorities have published rural dwelling design guides that help you understand the design principles which Planners look for in Planning Applications.
They are well worth reading, and should inspire.
Read not only that from your own local authority but others too – the Cork rural housing design guide is particularly thorough and well presented version, the Limerick and Monaghan are also excellent.
The basic idea contained in these guides is that we can [and should] learn from tradition and vernacular design.
At floorplan.ie, all of our designs take account of these principles. Taking traditional knowledge on forms, proportions and materials and marrying this to modern lifestyle needs to produce simple good designs.
Complying with these design guides not only makes it easier to get permission for your home, they will also help your home to fit into its context and respond harmoniously to its location.
The design guides cover all aspects of your house – from the site, planting, entrances, gates, gardens through to the house itself, its form and materials.
Links to rural design guides:
Munster
Connaught
Leinster
Ulster