Survey Data
Reg No
15401712
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Artistic, Social
Previous Name
Mearscourt
Original Use
Stables
In Use As
Stables
Date
1830 - 1850
Coordinates
227354, 255711
Date Recorded
23/11/2004
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Stable block on U-shaped plan, built c.1840, comprising two-storey ranges to east and west with a three-bay two-storey advanced pedimented three-bay two-storey section to centre of north range with cupola over. Located to west side of Meares Court. Pitched and hipped natural slate roofs with cut stone chimneystacks. Constructed of coursed rubble limestone with ashlar limestone trim. Square-headed window openings with cut stone sills and plain ashlar surrounds having paired multipane timber casement windows. Square-headed doorcases with dressed limestone lintels over supported on ashlar brackets having mixture of timber panelled and timber sheeted doors. Three segmental-headed carriage arches to pedimented section to north, comprising central entrance flanked by coach houses to east and west. Cut limestone gate piers on square plan and wrought-iron double-gates to south giving access to courtyard. with to the west of Meares Court.
Appraisal
A very fine stable block complex associated with Meares Court, which retain its early form and character. This handsome complex is built in an imposing classical style, befitting the architectural quality of the main house itself. The design, proportions and quality of the ashlar limestone detailing is of a very high standard, marking this stable block as one of the finest of its date surviving in Co. Westmeath. The pedimented breakfront with cupola over is of a particularly high standard, further elevating this complex above its contemporaries. These former stable buildings are significant as part of a group of structures associated with the Meares Court demesne, as well as architecturally in their own right.