Success for Libraries at the 2009 Opus Architecture and Construction Awards

by nmcnamara on 5 November, 2009

Opus logo The OPUS Architecture & Construction Awards were devised to reflect and reinforce the symbiotic relationship between design and construction. They have continuously evolved since the inaugural Awards in 2000, all the time striving to strengthen the inclusiveness of the key disciplines within the construction process.

Buildings that fit well into their surroundings and have made the most of awkward sites dominate those which have won awards this year in the 10th annual Opus Architecture and Construction Awards.

Libraries around Ireland have received awards and commendations in two of the categories in this year’s Opus Architecture and Construction Awards. The following is a list of winners:

~Over €20 million category~

Two Libraries won an award in the ‘over €20 million’ Category:

Cork County Library, Cork

Courtesy Shay Cleary Architects

- Architects: Shay Cleary Architects, Dublin

- Contractor: BAM Contracting, Cork

The Judges said….”This building responds well to a set of significant contextual issues. It is at once complex and self-effacing. It responds to the 16 storey County Hall in an apparently effortless solution creating a strong sense of its own place. There is a coherence and rigour throughout the project from the site plan through to the choice of materials. There is nothing to add or take away”.

Westmeath County Buildings & Library, Mullingar

Westmeath County Library, Mullingar

- Architects: Bucholz McEvoy Architects, Dublin

- Contractor: Bennetts Construction Ltd, Co Westmeath

The Judges said….”The drawings and photos submitted for this building did not do it justice. A site visit revealed a set of new and historic buildings interacting in an ingenious manner. The timber and glass atrium roof straddles various buildings, linking old and new in an engaging manner. The new complex is innovative, sustainable, modern and respectful of its historic setting. A credit to all involved”.

~Heritage Category~

In the Heritage Category Rush Library was highly commended and Abbeyleix Library was given an award.

Conversion of St Maurs Church to Rush Library (Highly Commended)

- Architect: McCullough Mulvin Architects, Dublin

- Contractor: Dunwoody & Dobson Ltd, Dublin

The Judges said….“A dilapidated church has been transformed into a local library of much promise. Layers of history are peeled back. New insertions are skillfully made that transform old things into new things such that the new composite is richer and deeper than either would be standing alone. There is a proud sense of achievement and ownership by the library staff”.

Abbeyleix Library, Co Laois (Award)

- Architect: De Blacam & Meagher Architects, Dublin

- Contractor: Frank C. Murray & Sons Construction Ltd, Co Tipperary

Abbeyleix library [Courtesy of the Heritage Council] The Judges said….“The rehabilitation of this historic Market House and adjacent public space is an excellent example of restoration and intervention. The original barn roof form to the internal ceiling has been re-integrated back into the new library reading room to great effect. You can even sit beside the fire in an armchair to read a book. The building was buzzing when visited with library patronage increased nine-fold since completion of the project. The successful breaking and re-knotting of historical and contemporary threads has woven a richer and more captivating building tapestry that is now Abbeyleix Library. There is a snug fit between old and new”.