MAJOR SUCCESS FOR CHURCH SQUARE AND PEACE CAMPUS PROJECTS IN NATIONAL ARCHITECTURE AW ARDS

Two flagship public projects in Monaghan Town have taken major national accolades for their architectural excellence. The Monaghan Peace Campus Project and the refurbishment of the Church Square public realm space were honoured at the annual awards of the RIAI or Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland. Designed by Hall Black Douglas Architects, the Monaghan Peace Campus won the Universal Design Award supported by the Centre for Excellence for Universal Design at the National Disability Authority. It was also honoured with the Public Buildings Award.

Said the judges: “Combining a library, youth centre, cultural spaces, and community services under one roof, the project has become a national model for accessibility, cohesion, and multifunctional design. It reflects a deep commitment to shared use, universal access, and civic pride.” The Church Square project, designed by Henry J Lyons Architects, took the Urban Design Award, earning the citation: “The rejuvenation of Church Square in Monaghan town was honoured for its outstanding urban design. The project sensitively reimagines a key historic public space, integrating modern infrastructure and vibrant landscaping to create a dynamic, welcoming environment for everyday use, events, and community gatherings.”

The awards ceremony was held on 22 June at the Merrion Cricket Club in Dublin. Chief Executive of Monaghan Co Council, Robert Burns said: “These are very prestigious awards and represent an excellent outcome for both the architects and Monaghan Co Council as client and project sponsor. These awards are recognition of the brilliant architects who designed the projects and also reflect the importance that Monaghan Co Council places on investing in high-quality, attractive and accessible public…