Kenmare architects nominated on the double for national award
KENMARE based architecture practice PLM Architects have received not one, but two, Public Choice nominations in the 25th RIAI Irish Architecture Awards 2014.
The projects, one in Kenmare and the other in Killorglin, are the work of lead architect Mark Dignam.
The Kerry projects are among 48 shortlisted by the jury at the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland and have now gone forward to a public vote ahead of the awards later this month.
The first of the projects nominated in the category of 'Conservation/ Restoration' is An Smachtlann in Kenmare. The private home in Shelbourne Street is a protected structure and dates back to 1790. It was once used at the Old Bridewell. Work carried out on the building included not only the renovation of the existing structure but also an new extension.
The second project is another private family home in Meanus, Killorglin. The completed home references the oxide corrugated roofs and wet dash render of the former tenant cottages common to the area.
One of the key external features of the Meanus home are the protecting walls which shelter an entrance courtyard and help frame views of Carrauntoohil.
Speaking to the Kerryman lead architect Mark Dignam said that they were delighted with the nominations: “We have won other awards in the past but this is the first time we have been shortlisted in the RIAI awards, and to get two nominations is very great.
“Both the projects in Killorglin and Kenmare were completed this time last year and are beautiful homes.”
It is not only a shared architect that unites the two projects. Building work on both the KIllorglin and Kenmare homes was also carried out by the same contractor KPH Construction in Kenmare.
Anyone interested in seeing more or voting should log on to www.architec-tureawards.ie before noon on Thursday, June 19. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on June 24.