Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey

Set in ruggedly beautiful west Galway landscape – and in proximity to the celebrated nineteenth century Gothic Revival Kylemore Abbey – this new monastery building draws on long established monastic traditions, perhaps most notably that of the cloister plan form. The architectural design of this monastery succeeds in reconciling interfaces between the public, semi-public and private realms but also between the timeless and contemporary. The building exploits the challenge of a steeply sloping site, while respecting and enhancing its remarkable context. For its residents, it provides practical, comfortable lifetime housing.

RIAI President, Seán Mahon FRIAI, said,

This year’s Public Choice Award winner is a remarkable example of how thoughtful, context-sensitive architecture can enhance both place and purpose. The new monastery at Kylemore Abbey demonstrates a deep understanding of heritage, landscape, and community, creating a space that feels both grounded in tradition and relevant to the present. We are thrilled to see the public recognise and celebrate architecture that enriches lives and contributes meaningfully to a much loved natural landscape and environment.