Strand Head House
Along the coast from Mussenden is Portstewart, where modernist ideals formed a new architectural ambition. Strand Head House, designed by Noel Campbell in 1958, is a striking example of mid-century modernism, reflecting another moment when architects in Northern Ireland embraced global trends while thoughtfully responding to local conditions. With its distinctive butterfly roof it has become an iconic local landmark. An abstract black-and-white mosaïc wall by Colin Middleton, one of Ireland’s leading surrealist artists, was made supposedly from salvaged crockery recovered from the wreck of the George A. Hopley when it ran aground on Portstewart beach in 1856. Myth or not, the mosaïc embeds a maritime history of storms and shipwrecks in Strand Head House.
Lesley McIntyre
Dance halls and murals
As we continue along the coast, other architectures tell stories not just of grand ambitions but of a vivid community life. Dance halls served both connection and escape. More than a night out – they were trips to joy and cultural identity. The Strand Ballroom, formerly the Top Hat and before that the Palais de Dance, played a pivotal role in Portstewart’s history until it fell victim to the Troubles. Today, a mural on its façade pays homage to its rock-and-roll past, connecting new generations to its legacy as a cultural crossroads.
Lesley McIntyre
heritage. Contemporary murals celebrate community achievements, highlight social issues and honour local history and art. They transform urban spaces into canvases of collective memory, offering a more inclusive and forward-looking narrative that bridges the past and the future.
Murals in Northern Ireland have evolved significantly over time, reflecting the shifting socio-political landscape of the region. Once predominantly focused on themes of conflict, identity and division — serving as visual expressions of allegiance during the Troubles, murals have increasingly become symbols of reconciliation, cultural pride and shared
47 on site review 46 :: travel
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