RIAI | Irish Architecture Awards

Citation

Western - Over £200,000

The headquarters of Teilifis Na Gaeilge is situated in the heart of the Connamara Gaeltacht close to Tully Lake. The long, low form of the building ties it to the ground without damaging the sensitive landscape.

The use of well crafted traditional local stonework in the thick planer walls reinforces this connection. The precisely detailed curtain  walls reflect the high technology function of the building and confirm its modern language and image.

Architects' Comment
The design problem was to give expression to the highly technological needs of the building, while respecting the sensitivity of its location, at Baile na hAbhainn in Connamara.

The design solution was to make a single storey building which sits comforatably in the environment. All solid walls were built of local granite which was contrasted with grey 'high tech' curtain wall windows and sun shades.

This ensures that the architecture expresses clearly the highly technological use of the building while incorporating local traditional materials.

Clients Comment
We at RTE feel that this is a building of prestige. It has good functional layout and yet has a light and airy ambience. The standard of workmanship throughout is excellent. The external aspect is also very striking with its combination of traditional stonework and modern curtain walling. This is a fitting image as Teilifis na Gaeilge is a partnership between our traditional language and the most modern of communications technology.