Cashel Palace Restoration

Restoration began in 2017 following the purchase of Cashel Palace by the Magnier Family. What followed was a careful and passionate restoration of one of Ireland’s most beautiful period properties. Guided by conservation expertise and the skills of local craftspeople, the project set out to preserve the house’s historic integrity while returning it to its original grace and purpose.

The roof was one of the most important elements of the restoration. With none of the original roof slates remaining, the team reinstated Bangor Blue slate, a Welsh stone traditionally used on many Irish houses. Historical photographs also helped guide the reinstatement of the house’s distinctive chimneys to their original height.

A central principle of the restoration was to retain as much original materials as possible. Pitch pine timbers, dormers, doors, fireplaces, flagstones, timber panelling, windows and plasterwork were repaired with great care, allowing the house’s 18th- and 19th-century character to remain visible throughout.

One of the greatest challenges was introducing modern heating, electricity, plumbing and Wi-Fi without compromising the building’s character. Services had to be carefully integrated around historic walls, timber panelling and protected features, ensuring the house could serve contemporary guests while preserving its architectural integrity.

The restoration depended on specialist craft. Experts in lead, stone, brick, wood, glass and plaster worked across the building, repairing details that might otherwise have been lost. From hand-restored windows to carefully polished fireplaces, the finished house reflects the patience, restraint and skill of true conservation work.

Today, Cashel Palace stands as a restored five-star luxury hotel where heritage and contemporary comfort are held in careful balance. The restoration is not only part of the building’s past; it shapes the guest experience today, giving every room, public space and architectural detail a quiet connection to the house’s long history.