Newly Renovated Kathryn Callaghan Art Studio Focuses Hard On Sustainability

For one ambitious and dedicated Calor customer, lockdown coincided with the launch of a lifelong goal, to open an art studio and gallery. Kathryn Callaghan Art Studio is the culmination of a lifelong dream and years of hard work. The result is a new beginning for The Old School House in Ballydrain, County Down.

Kathryn creates work inspired by the everyday glimpses of the beautiful world around her. Her work is created with a honey-like mix of ink and gel, which is poured freestyle onto the image surface. Free from pencil marks, she evokes a sense of energy, life and beauty for each subject. 

The stunning and unique appeal of Kathryn’s work has seen her quickly outgrow previous spaces as the interest in her art has grown as rapidly as her reputation. The growing following and commercial success warranted a bigger premise with two key goals in mind; to open in or near the local community of Lisbane, and for the building to have character which elevate it beyond the everyday. 

When Kathryn discovered The Old School House in Ballydrain, she knew it was the new home for her endeavours- but there was work to be done!

The building wasn’t immediately fit for purpose, so Kathryn undertook a significant renovation project which offered a superb opportunity to create a unique and characterful space. On greater inspection during the renovation phase, character, and plenty of it, was unveiled.

The builder revealed an original brick from Castle Espie from when the site was used as a brick and pottery factory. The brickworks was opened c1850 and was capable of producing up to 24,000 bricks a day.  In preserving the essence of the building, this brick has now been placed into the surrounding stone wall to be enjoyed for many more years ahead.

Environmental considerations were incorporated into the decision-making of the renovation. Converting an existing structure is environmentally friendly, as you’re recycling the energy and materials that went into the original building.  Features such as deep inset windows, high ceilings and beautiful stonework bring unique character and quality to the finished result.

The energy source selected during a renovation also has a big impact on the long-term environmental impact of the building. One of the most important parts of any major refurbishment project is choosing the right heating system.  It can be hard to know how to go about getting the best value for money when choosing a heating system. Gas remains an attractive option for businesses as it gives instant heat, hot water on demand, and it cannot be stolen. Using modern gas boiler technology with Calor’s renewable BioLPG, allows businesses to switch to a clean renewable alternative and offers carbon reductions of at least 50% and up to 90% when compared with fossil fuels.

Owing to the strong sense of community, an event was held for locals, family and customers old & new in the pre-renovated school house. This proved a huge success and showcased the character, charm and warmth of the building which will home the new Art Studio. Kathryn moved into the new studio and is hoping she will find creative inspiration within its walls, ushering in a new chapter for locals and art-lovers alike.

To view the stunning art pieces from Kathryn Callaghan Art Studio and Gallery, visit https://www.kathryncallaghan.co.uk/.