19-06-2025
Divine intervention! Galway Monastery wins prestigious architecture prize
Many prayers were answered yesterday when a stunning Connemara monastery was named as the public's choice of architectural design of the year.
With 14,000 votes cast in total, the Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey emerged as the winner in the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland's prestigious 2025 Public Choice Award.
The building, which officially opened last year, is nestled on the edge of Pollacappul Lough, beneath Dúchruach Mountain. It was said that 'the new monastery harmoniously integrates with its dramatic surroundings'. Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey. Pic: Peter Molloy
The judging panel added: 'Drawing on monastic traditions, the design evolves from a central garth and cloister, unfolding into a series of brick volumes of varying height and scale. The result is a serene and timeless structure that quietly complements its landscape through sensitive consideration of context, scale, materiality, and visual harmony.'
Kylemore Abbey executive Conor Coyne said: 'We are delighted. The award's going to Axo Architects who are a Mayobased firm and we are the client.' He added: 'It's the culmination of a long-term vision for the Benedictine Community at Kylemore Abbey who are 100 years in Connemara but this is the first time they've had a purpose-built monastery where they can continue to live their monastic vocation.'
The Abbey, which includes a residential retreat centre, received no State funding, but the money was raised from donors, benefactors and thousands of tourists who visit every year. Arklow Water Treatment Plant. Pic: Johan Dehlin
The runner-up was the Arklow Built to win: The Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant and, right, Scoil Naomh Bríd Wastewater Treatment Plant, which was praised as 'a pioneering piece of civic infrastructure that embodies public good'.
In third place came the 12-classroom building at Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens in Ballina, Co. Mayo, which is 'filled with daylight, delight, colour, and joy', serving 330 children.
