RIAI launches Annual Review of Irish Architecture

The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has officially launched The RIAI Annual Review of Irish Architecture 2016/2017, Vol. 7.  Now in its seventh year, the 230-page book showcases the best of Irish architectural projects completed during 2016 and 2017 and celebrates the architectural quality being delivered to the built environment by RIAI members each day.

Published by the RIAI and funded under the Government Policy on Architecture, the theme of this year’s edition is ‘Commemoration and Culture’ and projects featured include highlights from Ireland’s centenary year of 2016 such as the GPO Witness History exhibition centre.

 The RIAI Annual Review compromises of rich illustrations, essays and reviews which offer a unique insight and fresh look at the creativity and talent of Irish architects. The book tells the fascinating stories behind 18 award-winning buildings.  Ranging in building type and scale, they include innovative family homes; tearooms, a new fire station and civic offices,  the iconic Dublin Diving Bell and the magnificent Humewood Castle in Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow.

The RIAI Annual Review was officially launched at an event in the RIAI offices on Merrion Square on Tuesday 12 December, which was attended by contributors to the publication, together with RIAI members and supporters of Irish architecture.

Commenting, RIAI CEO, Kathryn Meghen, said: “Quality architecture impacts positively on all aspects of our lives; it is an expression of our national culture and tells the story of our history, economy and society. The talent of our members is recognised both here at home and all across the globe. As the registration body for architects in Ireland, we are proud of the value our members bring to society for everyone’s benefit.”

The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan TD, said: “We recognise the importance of maintaining our historic buildings, which is why we recently announced that the very successful Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Structures at Risk Fund will operate again in 2018, providing €3.3 million in investment in 2018 for the repair and conservation of protected structures.  These schemes supported more than 500 projects across the country in 2017 and helped to provide employment in the conservation and construction industries.  They will continue to support the regeneration of urban and rural areas across the country into the future. The historical and cultural associations embodied in our built heritage form the bedrock of our collective culture which must be protected and managed in order to inform and inspire the creativity of the future. Quality architecture touches all aspects of our lives so it is only right that the design talents of our architects are recognised.”

Essential reading for everyone with an interest in Irish architecture and design, The RIAI Annual Review of Irish Architecture, Vol. 7, 2016/2017 can be purchased at the RIAI bookshop at 8 Merrion Square, Dublin 2 for €25.00.