A proud distinction for Mayo firm of architects
The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has announced that the winner of the prestigious 2025 RIAI Public Choice Award is the Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey by Axo Architects.
With 14,000 votes cast in total, the Benedictine Monastery emerged as the winner.
The project has captured hearts across the country, reflecting its exceptional architectural merit and deep connection to its environment and community.
Nestled on the edge of Pollacappul Lough, beneath the rugged Duchruach Mountain and near the historic Kylemore Abbey, the new monastery harmoniously integrates with its dramatic surroundings.
Drawing on monastic traditions, the design evolves from a central garth and cloister, unfolding into a series of brick volumes of varying height and scale.
The result is a serene and timeless structure that quietly complements its landscape through sensitive consideration of context, scale, materiality, and visual harmony.
The Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant, finishing in second place, marks a pioneering piece of civic infrastructure that embodies public good.
In third place, the new 12 classroom building at Scoil Naomh Bríd Culleens is filled with daylight, delight, colour, and joy, serving the education and wellbeing of 330 children.
In fourth place, the redevelopment of the Dún Laoghaire Baths has reimagined and opened up a 400-m stretch of coastline.
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.”
This year, the RIAI Irish Architecture Awards received 124 entries, with 48 projects shortlisted for the Public Choice Award — 21 from Dublin, 20 from regional Ireland, and six international projects by Irish architects.
The RIAI Irish Architecture Awards will take place tomorrow evening at the Merrion Cricket Pavilion – itself an award-winning building by TAKA Architects – where the full list of winners across all categories will be announced.
The RIAI Awards 2025 are proudly supported by Gold Sponsors – Sika Ireland and VELUX.