RIAI | Irish Architecture Awards

Citation

Southern - Over £200,000

Since Vatican II many existing churches and cathedrals have been remodelled internally with varying degrees of success. In the case of St.Mary and St. Anne's the alterations are wholly appropriate and enhance rather than detract from the quality of the original.

Each change is carried out with thought and respect for the building and the rituals performed therein. Each new element is considered and special and intrinsically beautiful.

The Cathedral has been enriched by the quality of this dignified work.

Architects' Comment
The Cathedral is, for all the world, the Bishop's church. Hence the word 'Cathedra'. The Cathedral is also the people's church. There they find a gathering place to which they come as affirmation of the human community they represent.

Client's Comments
Achieving liturgical unity; conserving heritage; introducing new art; using rich materials; effective lighting; an imaginative colour scheme; all have combined to give a warmth and Cathedral-like grandeur to Cork's Catholic Cathedral.