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Irish Times
9 hours ago
- General
- Irish Times
Benedictine monastery at Kylemore Abbey voted Ireland's favourite building at RIAI awards
The Benedictine monastery at Kylemore Abbey in Connemara , Co Galway , has been voted as Ireland's favourite building as part of this year's Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) awards. The monastery, designed by Mayo -based architect Michael Horan of Axo Architects, topped the ballot in the public choice category, for which 14,000 votes were cast. The monastery ' is a remarkable example of how thoughtful, context-sensitive architecture can enhance both place and purpose', said RIAI president Seán Mahon. '[It] demonstrates a deep understanding of heritage, landscape, and community, creating a space that feels both grounded in tradition and relevant to the present. READ MORE Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey. Photograph: Peter Molloy Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey. Photograph: Peter Molloy Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey. Photograph: Peter Molloy 'We are thrilled to see the public recognise and celebrate architecture that enriches lives and contributes meaningfully to a much loved natural landscape and environment.' On the edge of Pollacappul Lough, beneath the Duchruach Mountain and close to Kylemore Abbey, the new monastery 'harmoniously integrates with its dramatic surroundings', the RIAI said. '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.' The monastery took first place out of 48 shortlisted projects with the Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant in Co Wicklow by Clancy Moore Architects in collaboration with Ayesha Engineers coming second. Scoil Naomh Bríd in Culleens, Ballina, Co Mayo, by SJK Architects took third place. The Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant is described by the RIAI as 'a pioneering piece of civic infrastructure that embodies public good', while it says the 12-classroom building at Scoil Naomh Bríd is 'filled with daylight, delight, colour and joy'. The redevelopment of the Dún Laoghaire Baths in south Co Dublin by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council architects and A2 Architects, which opened up a 400m stretch of coastline, came in fourth. The RIAI's awards ceremony will take place on Thursday evening at the Merrion Cricket Pavilion on Anglesea Road, Dublin 4, where the full list of winners from all categories will be announced. Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens Scoil Naomh Bríd, Culleens
Irish Independent
08-06-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Pics show Cork pupils leaving MEP Seán Kelly deeply impressed at their EU ‘Blue Star' achievement
The event marked the culmination of a year-long project that saw pupils from Junior Infants to Sixth Class explore the rich historical, cultural, and geographical heritage of the European Union. Principal Michael Horan welcomed Mr. Kelly, and commended the work of students and staff, particularly 5th and 6th classes and their teacher Kathryn Fahy, who led the project and encouraged their fellow students to learn more about Europe. Every child at St. Brendan's played their part, from learning about EU member states to creating colourful artwork, posters, classroom displays and signs reading 'hello' and 'welcome' in 27 different EU languages. Mr. Kelly was also treated to a rousing performance of Beethoven's 'Ode to Joy' – the European Anthem – arranged and performed by senior pupils on tin whistles, fiddles, banjo, and cello, capturing both the musical talents of the school and the joyful spirit of European unity. In his address, Mr. Kelly spoke about the role of the European Parliament and how EU decisions affect daily life in Ireland. He encouraged students to value democracy, cooperation, and peace, highlighting how their learning connects them to a wider European community. Environmental awareness was a key theme of his visit. 'You are lucky to live in an area rich in biodiversity,' he told the children. 'Every action you take to protect the planet matters, whether it's recycling, saving the bees, or reducing emissions.' Members of the Rathcoole Green School Committee were delighted to share the school's long-standing commitment to environmental issues, and showed the MEP their six Green Flags, and newly installed solar panels. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more Mr. Kelly also addressed the importance of mental health in an age of social media. He commended the school for fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment and emphasised the value of kindness, mindfulness, and open conversations. Wellbeing Committee pupils were very proud to display their Amber Flag, recently awarded to St. Brendan's NS for promoting wellbeing and mental health within the school community. Seán Kelly made sure to take time to speak with all the students, admire their projects, and answer their questions - ranging from his favourite of the GAA codes (hurling), to whether he was putting his name forward for the Presidential elections. Although he dodged that one, students remain hopeful for a future school trip to Áras an Uachtaráin! Before bidding St. Brendan's farewell, Mr. Kelly praised the school's positive atmosphere and commitment to excellence. His visit was a proud moment for the Rathcoole community, recognising both the students' hard work and their growing connection to European and Global Citizenship.
