The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has awarded a Silver Medal for Conservation and Restoration for the refurbishment of the National Gallery of Ireland's Historic Wings.

The refurbishment which was completed by Heneghan Peng Architects and Blackwood Associates Architect received the award for the period 2014-2016. The winning entry has been described as displaying both ingenuity and restraint in its approach, working with the existing buildings and unlocking dormant potential to reinvigorate the gallery.

This project was recognised by the jury for bringing in light and space into the heart of the building but not allowing bold moves distract from the integrity of the historic buildings.

Sean Mahon, President of the RIAI said:

"This medal is of particular importance with regard to preserving our built heritage and addressing climate change, as it recognises the use of existing buildings. The greenest building is the one that already exists. The winners and shortlisted projects demonstrate the importance of investing into quality design and materials from the beginning, as this will result in buildings that will stand the test of time.” He added: “In a world where progress often seems to come at the expense of our past, the architects and their clients have shown us that conservation and restoration are not just acts of preservation, but acts of reverence – a testament to our respect for history and our commitment to future generations."

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Róisín Heneghan and Kevin Blackwood of Heneghan Peng Architects and Blackwood Associates Architects, respectively, said:

"Winning the RIAI Silver Medal for Conservation and Restoration for our work on the Historic Wings refurbishment at the National Gallery of Ireland is especially rewarding, as the award recognises work that has been completed for 7 years and has withstood the test of time and use. The project has succeeded because of the commitment of the Office of Public Works, the National Gallery of Ireland, the entire design team and contractors. Together we have delivered a project which appears subtle and at ease, despite the extensive scale and scope of the necessary interventions in the historic buildings."

The Office of Public Works said:

"We are delighted that the National Gallery of Ireland Historic Wings Refurbishment project has been selected as the winner for the RIAI Silver Medal for Conservation and Restoration 2014–2016. The OPW was very proud to lead this complex and challenging conservation project where a successful collaborative process between the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media of Ireland, the National Gallery of Ireland, the OPW and our design team, led by Heneghan Ping Architects, has resulted in an exemplar conservation project that contributes significantly to the preservation of both Ireland’s architectural heritage and the National Collection for generations to come."

The RIAI Silver Medal for Conservation and Restoration is a top honour given to architects or practices for exceptional projects completed within three years. The medal is awarded several years after completion so that the success of the building can be confirmed by the passage of time.

Photo: Marie Louise Halpenny