Co. Tyrone
Sperring view glamping
17 / 01 / 2020
Located close to Beaghmore, a complex of early Bronze Age stone circles and cairns, Sperrin View
Glamping has one of the ‘darkest skies’ in Ireland. Situated in a disused quarry, the rolling topography
helps screen any potential for light pollution ensuring a crystal clear view of star constellations.
Careful emphasis was given to the placement of a single triangular window that funnels ones view
towards the sky from the comfort of their bed. A second day bed makes use of the roof void, a perfect
vista to the Sperrin Mountains. At 19.5m2 the pods include a tea making station and ensuite shower
room.
Working to a limited budget the main structural element is a timber truss spaced on a steel chassis at
600mm centres. Externally the four prefabricated pods are clad in corrugated metal, each a different
tone in keeping with the surrounding heather clad hills. Siberian larch is used to define a covered
entrance to the rear, a soffit to the triangular window and a recessed to park ones bicycle.
Internally the pods are a mix of painted plywood and stained T&G boards. Attention was given to the
lighting controls to ensure a correct environment was possible to enjoy the sky views.
Each pod enjoys its own private outdoor space defined by rocks and native plants. Although not
complete, a wildflower meadow will be planted to help soften its surroundings and further integrate
the development into the wider landscape.
Credit: Aerial Vision NI, Sperrins Photography