Project Details

Client Brief

Our clients wanted to open up the entire rear wall of their home to create a bright, modern kitchen and dining space with a seamless connection to the garden through a large wall of glass.

The aim was to maximise natural light, improve flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, and create a contemporary open-plan living environment.

Our Services

Rear Wall Opening with Glazed Kitchen Extension in McCurtain Street, Cork City

Step 1: Initial Assessment & Investigation

Assessed the existing structure to confirm the rear wall was load-bearing.
Opened investigation areas to determine the direction and layout of the floor joists and roof structure above.
Identified key load paths and confirmed support requirements with the structural engineer.
Reviewed foundation conditions and existing drainage locations prior to demolition works.

Step 2: Service Isolation & Preparation

Isolated and made safe all electrical, plumbing, and heating services within the rear wall.
Coordinated with certified trades to disconnect and reroute any affected services.
Protected surrounding finishes and installed dust control measures throughout the property.

Step 3: Temporary Structural Support

Installed adjustable props and strongboys to provide temporary support to the upper floor and roof structure.
Ensured all temporary supports were securely positioned and load distribution was checked before demolition commenced.
Maintained structural stability throughout all phases of the opening works.

Step 4: Demolition of Existing Rear Wall

Carefully removed the existing rear wall in controlled sections while maintaining support to the structure above.
Prepared the opening to suit the new steel beam and glazing system.
Managed waste and debris removal efficiently to maintain a clean and safe working environment.

Step 5: Steel Beam Installation

Lifted and installed the structural steel beam as specified by the structural engineer.
Positioned the beam onto concrete padstones at each bearing point to ensure proper load transfer.
Packed with non-shrink mortar and checked carefully for level, alignment, and bearing.
Completed all structural connections and restraint measures in accordance with engineering drawings.

Step 6: Glazing Installation

Installed large-format aluminium sliding glass doors to create a full-width opening onto the garden.
Integrated low-threshold detailing to achieve a seamless transition between internal floor finishes and the external patio.
Completed airtightness, insulation, and weatherproofing details around the glazing system.

Step 7: Masonry, Finishing & Landscaping Works

Made good all surrounding masonry and internal finishes to create a clean tie-in with the existing structure.
Prepared surfaces ready for plastering, painting, and kitchen installation.
Completed patio and external landscaping works to strengthen the indoor–outdoor connection.

Step 8: Final Checks & Handover

Removed all temporary structural supports once the steel beam and glazing system were fully secured.
Conducted final inspections to confirm compliance with structural and safety requirements.
Site was left clean, safe, and ready for final kitchen fitting and decoration.

Project Outcome

The completed project transformed the rear of the home into a bright and spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area with uninterrupted views of the garden. The new wall of glass dramatically increased natural light while creating a modern living space designed for everyday family use and entertaining.