Survey Data
Reg No
20841075
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Artistic
Original Use
Post office
In Use As
Post office
Date
1900 - 1905
Coordinates
112276, 33617
Date Recorded
27/06/2008
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Attached gable-fronted three-bay single-storey post office, built 1904, with two-bay south-west elevation adhering to street pattern. Pitched artificial slate roof behind round-headed gable parapet (west) with carved limestone coping and ball finials. Cast-iron rainwater goods. Red brick walls having carved limestone date and name plaques and metal harp emblem to parapet. Carved limestone sill course and plinth. Painted rendered walls to elsewhere. Square-headed openings having timber multiple-pane casement windows with red brick voussoirs and raised cut limestone keystones. Window to central bay having roundel for clock fitting. Square-headed door opening having timber panelled door, multiple-pane timber casement overlight, carved limestone surround, red brick voussoirs and raised cut limestone keystone. Double-leaf timber glazed doors to interior.
Appraisal
An elegant and ornate purpose-built post office exhibiting finely crafted features in a distinctive early twentieth century style. The contrast of red brick with carved limestone detailing adds variety and interest to the façade, while the exaggerated keystones and Dutch gable roof line are interesting elements. The survival of the timber framed windows incorporating a roundel to exhibit a clock face is a pleasing feature. Prominently located on a corner site near the town hall, the survival of this building adds significantly to the architectural heritage of Skibbereen.