In 1969, Nicholas Groves-Raines purchased a small stone cottage on Gola Island, located two miles off the coast of County Donegal. Set within a clachan of now mostly abandoned dwellings, the cottage sits within a striking Atlantic landscape shaped by weather, remoteness, and time.

Over several decades, the building has been gradually and sensitively upgraded. The approach prioritised the retention of original features and materials, avoiding unnecessary interventions and preserving the character of the cottage and its surroundings. Essential services such as running water and electricity were introduced with care, allowing for greater comfort while respecting the integrity of the building.

The result is a modest and much-loved retreat that continues to serve as a gathering place for the family. The cottage offers shelter, stillness and a strong connection to both place and tradition, quietly reflecting the value of long-term stewardship and careful, context-driven adaptation.