James Connolly Visitor Centre. Photo: Paul Lindsay.
BELFAST’S NEW JAMES CONNOLLY VISITOR CENTRE ON THE FALLS ROAD, ÁRAS UÍ CHONGHAILE, HAS BEEN NAMED NORTHERN IRELAND’S BUILDING OF THE YEAR… James Connolly Visitor Centre is Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year 2022
T he Royal Society of Ulster
year’s overall winner is a brilliant example of building re-use. To help tackle our climate emergency we need to focus in on how our existing buildings can be re-purposed, not just those of great historic value. Demolishing and starting from scratch should be a last resort. This year’s entries were required to have been in use for at least one year so that the judging panel could better evaluate the sustainability and real-life performance of these projects.”
The construction of Áras Uí Chonghaile entailed the adaptation and extension of a Victorian twin end-terrace building, transforming the structure into a museum with learning and exhibition spaces as well as a café, library and office with conference facilities. The judging panel described the building as a “crafted and characterful addition to the local community…and a fine demonstration of what can be achieved through re-use.” The four other RSUA Design Award- winning projects were also based in Derry. All five will be considered for a UK-wide RIBA National Award which leads on to the coveted RIBA Stirling Prize. Read about all the RSUA Design Award- winning projects over the following pages…
Architects (RSUA) presented the Liam McCormick Prize to Áras Uí
Chonghaile which was designed for Fáilte Feirste Thiar (Visit West Belfast) by McGurk Architects. The project was also awarded the RSUA Integration of Art Award for the portrait of James Connolly on the perforated-metal gable wall, central to the creation of this was Fergal Rainey who was named Project Architect of the Year. Ciarán Fox, Director of RSUA, said, “This
PROJECT TEAM • Client: Fáilte Feirste Thiar
(L-R): RSUA President Donal Mac Randal, Harry Connolly, Executive Director, Fáilte Feirste Thiar and Colm McGurk, Director, McGurk Architects pictured outside the Lanyon Building at Queen’s University. Photo: Fergal Rainey.
• Architect: McGurk Architects T: 028 7930 1126 www.mcgurk-architects.com
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