Inspired by his passionate interest in Ireland’s architectural heritage and its preservation, in 2012 writer Robert O’Byrne established The Irish Aesthete, a blog and social media phenomenon dedicated to sharing and showcasing the treasures of Ireland’s built environment. Ever since, architects, designers, decorators, historians and indeed those who are simply interested in the unique history of our Island’s architecture have flocked from around the world to The Irish Aesthete for insight, fascination and delight.

The Irish Aesthete: Buildings of Ireland, Lost and Found was born from O’Byrne’s tireless work charting the hidden glories of Ireland’s buildings. In this true everyman’s guide, Robert has set out to highlight these landmarks, and to demonstrate how readers young and old can enjoy them. Each photograph in this book was taken by the author using nothing but a simple phone camera, showing readers that they too can engage with the past in vibrant new ways.

Robert’s collection of photographs, covering everything from grand country houses to ancient monasteries, now runs to over 100,000 images and covers all 32 counties in Ireland. This new volume contains some 150 from his own selection of his best work with each photograph accompanied by illuminating descriptions and anecdotes.

‘A poignant cri de coeur for the neglected treasures of our architectural heritage. O’Byrne’s admiration, and even love, for these fading glories of our built environment is infectious. He catalyses within the reader an increased appreciation and heightened sense of observation of these fine old buildings. His passion is evident within every word of prose and well-posed photograph.’ Manchán Magan