Mark Young (MY) Eco Construction Ltd is a dynamic and forward-thinking company which has been delivering high-quality, efficient and environmentally-friendly construction solutions to clients since 2006.
Long before the movement towards energy-efficient homes gathered pace in Ireland, Mark Young Eco Construction in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary had embraced passive housing standards. Energy-efficient homes are designed and built to use as little energy as possible. They incorporate various approaches, technologies and materials to reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills and minimise environmental impact while ensuring a comfortable living environment. Additionally, improved energy efficiency is crucial to reach Ireland’s energy and climate goals.
In 2000, Mark Young relocated from the UK where he had run a company called Oak Framed Timber Buildings. It was from this, and from his time spent in Germany, that he adopted the sustainable timber frame model which can significantly contribute to reducing a building’s overall carbon footprint.
“I was an early adopter,” he says.
“When I first came here, energy-efficient homes and things like air source heat pumps and solar panels were frowned upon. So when the new Nzeb regulations were introduced, passive houses or well-performing houses were nothing new to us. We were already building them and didn’t have to play catch-up like many others in the industry found themselves having to do.
“It has only been in the last five years that Irish homes have caught up with the A2 energy rating build standard. We have always put low energy costs and quality build details at the top of our priority list.”
While Mark has a clear preference for timber frame construction, he also specialises in traditional block-built homes.
“We can build block houses too but, in general, we stick to the timber frame method and the use of sustainable materials,” says the affable managing director, whose services include domestic and commercial renovations, home extensions and new builds.
“I’ve always had an interest, and strived to reach the passive house standard, with every build. We pride ourselves on building homes that perform extremely well in terms of heat saving-costs. Twenty years ago, people weren’t educated or getting the right information about passive housing. The mindset has shifted so much in that time. Much more cost-effective homes are being built now. We’re still not there, but we’re getting there.”
Offering a design and build service, Mark Young Eco Construction has successfully completed numerous high-specification projects. The contractor is currently constructing three one-off timber frame homes in the Clonmel area, carrying out another new build in Cahir as well as an extension and renovation to a house in Kilkenny which boasts a sauna room. Furthermore, Mark and his team are engaged in a conservation project at The Coach House, which is located beside the Garda Station in Clonmel.
“We’ve never had to advertise. And all of our work is local which is an added bonus,” he proudly states.
Superior workmanship, attention to detail, value-for-money, an unwavering commitment to Health & Safety and working closely with clients to deliver total satisfaction are the hallmarks of Mark Young Eco Construction. From concept to completion, Mark and his professional team are with you every step of the way, ensuring that your new project is designed and built to your specific needs and to the highest standard.
Whether your next project is a new build, renovation or extension, Mark Young Eco Construction’s one-stop shop approach will ensure that both the design and building processes are smooth, comfortable and hassle-free. The South Tipperary contractor’s reputation for high quality construction and ability to complete projects on time and within the agreed budget is borne out by the high volume of repeat business and referrals it receives from design teams and scores of satisfied customers.
By employing highly-skilled people, working closely with its subcontractors, engineers and architects, and using only the very best sustainable building products, Mark Young Eco Construction is able to deliver the highest quality construction.
Mark is joined in the business by five direct employees who are supported and supplemented by the same tried and trusted subcontractors, including Harry Arndt, who has been part of the passive housing journey with Mark and whose knowledge of mechanical heating plumbing is second to none.
“My philosophy is that no-one is ever owed money. Our reputation for paying subcontractors on time stands to us,” continues Mark, who also enjoys an excellent working relationship with McGarry William Engineers in Clonmel, Walsh + Walsh Architects in Cahir and Kenneth Hennessy Architects in Clonmel.
A carpenter by trade, Mark has decades of experience in all aspects of carpentry, from roofing design through to second fix and cabinet making. He moved to Ireland at the turn of the millennium and operated as a sole trader for six years before forming a limited company in 2006.
“It happened more by accident than design,” he remembers.
“A friend of mine bought a house in Clonmel and was looking for advice on how to renovate it. In the end, he asked me to do it for him and it just snowballed from there. I’ve been living and working in Clonmel ever since.”
As Mark Young Eco Construction continues to go from strength to strength, Mark would like to take this opportunity to thank his clients, suppliers and design teams for their continued support as well as his direct employees and subcontractors for their hard work, dedication and expertise.
Mark Young (MY) Eco Construction Ltd
Killurney,
Clonmel,
Co. Tipperary.
Telephone: 086 811 7285
Email: [email protected]
This article was published in Building Ireland Magazine, February, Vol 11 No 2
