Residential Adaption and Extension wins 2014 RIAI Universal Design Award
The winners of the RIAI Architecture Awards 2014 were announced on the 24th June 2014. The 2014 RIAI Universal Design Award went to a Residential Adaption and Extension by Justin O’Callaghan, Architect.
Residential Extension and Adaption, by Justin O’Callaghan, Architect, winner of the 2014 RIAI Universal Design Award
Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny by McGarry Ní Éanaigh Architects and the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre, London School of Economics by O'Donnell + Tuomey Architects were commended in the Universal Design category. The Centre for Excellence in Universal Design at the National Disability Authority supported the award.
The jury commented on the award winning building as follows:
This project illustrates a comprehensive and holistic understanding of what Universal Design really is. The project brief for the home was to adapt and extend an existing house to meet the needs of a growing family, as well as meeting the needs of caring for a disabled member of the family. It benefited from the collaboration of the client, architect, builder and medical advisers. The layout encourages close interaction between family members while at the same time allowing for personal space. There was clear attention paid to detail throughout the design and construction process. The carefully selected internal finishes, materials and colours are sensitively used to create warm and welcoming spaces throughout the home with excellent use of natural light and views to the garden areas. As a family home it is a delight to live in and has greatly improved the quality of life for the whole family; it exemplifies the essence of universal design and should be an inspiration to others who are contemplating similar projects.
Presentation of 2014 RIAI Universal Design Award
L to R: Robin Mandal, RIAI President, Christopher and Siobhán Smith (Clients), Siobhán Barron, Director of the National Disability Authority,Justin O’Callaghan, Architect , Ruairí Quinn, Minister for Education and Skills