Projects at Queen's University Belfast (QUB) and Carrickfergus Castle have both been recognised as leading examples of architecture work in Northern Ireland.

The projects were celebrated at the recent Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) Design Awards for 2021.

The Lanyon Building Conservation and Restoration Project was designed by Consarc for Queen's University, Belfast. The judges were 'moved by the team’s forensic approach' to the challenging repairs and reconstruction of the original zinc alloy windows and stonework. The project enhanced the building to make it fit for purpose in the 21st century whilst retaining all its significance and inherent character.  

The other winning project, Carrickfergus Castle Roof Replacement was designed by Alastair Coey Architects in partnership with Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects for the Department for Communities, Historic Environment Division.  

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Judges said that the conservation architects, structural engineers, carpenters, and lead workers responsible 'should be applauded' for their work in this project to restore and protect the castle's Great Keep. They mentioned that the work was completed in a sustainable way with low embodied carbon and little need for maintenance, while still incorporating historic detailing, traditional materials and a high level of craftsmanship and traditional skills. 

Ciarán Fox, director of RSUA, said: "This year's awards celebrate conservation architecture and acknowledge the architects' unique skills in giving these buildings new life. By awarding these accolades to restoration and conservation projects in existing buildings, we recognise the value of Northern Ireland's older built environment – not just because of its heritage and cultural value, but because of the need for environmental and economic sustainability. We warmly congratulate these conservation architects whose work often goes unseen, and who are instrumental in the success of these complex and intricate projects."

The Carrickfergus Castle project was awarded the RSUA Sustainability Award and the Department for Communities were named as RSUA Client of the Year. The Lanyon Building project won the RSUA Conservation award. Both projects will now be put forward for consideration for a RIBA UK-wide award.  

Ciarán Fox added: "In this climate emergency we need to reconsider the value of all of our existing buildings, not just those of great historic value. Demolishing and building new should be a last resort. The embodied carbon locked-in to buildings means we should be looking for ways to conserve, restore, enhance and creatively re-use. The architect's role will be central to this and I expect to see many more awards for this type of work over the coming years."