Roskyle Construction Ltd is delighted to be associated with a stunning Tyrone countryside home that was named ‘Best Single House in Ireland’ at the 2026 Building & Architect of the Year Awards (BAYA Awards).
Based in Comber, Co. Down, Roskyle was the main contractor on the award-winning Cookstown project which was delivered in collaboration with Des Ewing Residential Architects, Advance M&E, Moore Interior Design and Park Hood (landscape architects). Presented at a gala ceremony on April 26 last at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Co. Dublin, the BAYA Awards celebrate excellence in Irish architecture. They offer a much-needed platform for architects of all scales, from large firms to sole practitioners, to showcase their work across all building types – residential, public, commercial and cultural. Carefully designed categories ensure a level playing field where the full breadth of Irish architecture can be celebrated.
“We were proud to play our part in this project, for which Des Ewing Residential Architects has been deservedly recognised with this prestigious award,” Roskyle managing director Colin Dougan enthuses.
“We’ve worked with Des Ewing on quite a few projects and enjoy an excellent relationship with him and his team. We’re currently working together on our fourth project in the London area, which is a large two-and-a-half storey luxury home in Ascot.
“The house in Cookstown turned out beautifully. The roof pitch was steeper than normal which made it challenging. But this and all other challenges associated with the build were successfully overcome.”
Colin adds: “It’s lovely to be associated with accolades like this. A few years ago, we were the main contractor on a contemporary designed home on Sketrick Island, Co. Down which was designed by Neil Darby and won a RSUA (Royal Society of Ulster Architects). The living accommodation was on the first floor and cantilevered over the driveway, while the exterior was clad using zinc with some hardwood cladding.”
The Cookstown property is a bespoke rural home that sits prominently on a windswept hilltop, combining the familiar language of the Irish vernacular with the expansive form of an American farmhouse, as designed by Des Ewing Residential Architects.
The exposed nature of the site demanded a robust and carefully considered construction approach. The house is set out across the landscape to form a series of sheltered courtyards, with roof forms and canopies engineered to provide protection from prevailing winds while maintaining openness to the views. A substantial veranda was carefully detailed and constructed to withstand the elements, enabling year-round use and a strong connection to the surrounding countryside.
Internally, the build balances precision and warmth. High-quality finishes and natural materials create intimate living spaces, while complex double-height volumes were delivered with meticulous attention to structure, detailing and build quality. The central kitchen—constructed as the heart of the home—anchors the plan and connects the various wings through clear circulation and strong visual links.
This project reflects Roskyle’s commitment to delivering complex, site-responsive homes—where traditional forms are realised through modern construction methods, careful detailing and a deep respect for context and craft.
Established in 1989 by the late Morris Crawford, Roskyle has earned an enviable reputation for delivering bespoke luxury homes, with projects throughout Northern Ireland and Great Britain. The company is dedicated to providing top-quality building and engineering solutions for its clients. Its success as the builders and developers on many high-end homes is based on a combination of flair, experience and commitment.
“Morris set up the company in my hometown of Killyleagh, Co. Down. I came on board in 2002 and we continue to go from strength to strength,” explains Colin, whose son Kyle is also involved in the business.
“Working with architects of the calibre of Des Ewing has helped us to grow. We specialise in residential projects, but are equally adept in the commercial sector. We currently have seven or eight jobs ongoing and have worked on everything from one-off homes and housing developments to historic and listed buildings. We pride ourselves on being dedicated to providing top-quality building and engineering solutions to our valued clients.”
Outstanding workmanship, attention to detail, value-for-money and a commitment to working closely with clients to deliver total satisfaction in a safe and sustainable manner are the hallmarks of Roskyle. From concept to completion, Colin and his team are with you every step of the way, ensuring that your new project is designed and built to your specific needs.
Roskyle’s one-stop shop approach ensures that both the design and building processes are smooth, comfortable and hassle-free. The Co. Down contractor’s reputation for 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 clients.
By employing highly-skilled people, working closely with engineers and architects, and using only the very best building products, this fully insured company is able to deliver the highest quality construction to its clients.
Roskyle has over 20 direct employees who are supported and supplemented by the same tried and tested subcontractors. Colin would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their hard work, dedication and expertise as well as his clients, suppliers and design teams for their continued support.
Roskyle Ltd
Laureldale Hall,
Laurelbank,
Mill Street,
Comber,
Co. Down,
BT23 5EQ.
Telephone: +44 (0)28 4482 8229
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.roskyle.com
This article was published in Building Ireland Magazine, September 2026, Vol 12 No 9
