The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has announced the shortlist for the prestigious RIAI Silver Medals for Conservation and Restoration. The medals are awarded to architects or architectural practices for projects of exceptional merit completed within the period 1999/2000/2001.

The medals recognise the highest achievements in architectural conservation and restoration spanning a three year period. The term ‘conservation’ is interpreted to include works where buildings of historic importance are refurbished and adapted for contemporary use. The term ‘restoration’ is interpreted to include works where buildings of historic importance are restored as monuments.

Previous Silver Medal recipients have included: the Government Buildings, Merrion Square by the Architectural Department of the Office of Public Works (1987-92), the Royal Hospital Kilmainham by John Costello (1984–86) and the Casino at Marino by Austin Dunphy (1976-86).

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RIAI Director, John Graby, said that the shortlist is comprised of eight historically important and beautiful buildings that combine the functions of design, preservation of cultural importance and renewal of social significance. The jury’s shortlist is as follows:

• Model Arts & Niland Gallery, Limited/ Sligo City Council/ Sligo Co. Council by McCullough Mulvin Architects;

• Leinster House by the Office of Public Works on behalf of the Houses of the Oireactas Leinster House 2000;

• Kodak House, Mr. Noel Quirke by Paul Keogh Architects;

• Farmleigh House, Office of Public Works by the Office of Public Works on behalf of the Houses of the Oireachtas;

• St. Catherine’s Church Core, St. Catherine’s Church by Paul Arnold Architects;

• Ardfert Cathedral by The Heritage Service, OPW/ Shaffrey Associates Architects;

• Dublin City Hall by Paul Arnold Architects in Joint Venture with Dublin City Council Architects; and

• Maynooth Castle by de Blacam & Meagher Architects

The awards were assessed by David Slattery, Jill Chadwick, Mary Hanna, Des McMahon and Jack Coughlan.

(CL)