A new extension to a school on the Aran Islands has been nominated for the Mies Award 2019, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of architecture.
The extension to Coláiste Naomh Éinne on Inis Mór was nominated by a panel of independent experts from across Europe along with other buildings completed in the last two years.
The winner will be announced in Barcelona on 7 May 2019.
The project was commissioned by Galway Roscommon Education & Training Board to provide a new art classroom for Coláiste Naomh Éinne.
However, with careful site planning the building goes much further.
It activates a neglected space at the back of the school to create a welcoming courtyard, two regulation handball courts, and a large sheltered seating area.
This new project will allow the school to host handball tournaments, summer courses, night classes, and exhibitions.
As part of the Mies Award 2019, the design for the Aran Islands project will be disseminated worldwide through exhibitions and publications.
After receiving funding from the Department of Education and Skills, the school appointed Galway-based Paul Dillon Architects as their preferred architect for this project.
Speaking of the nomination, Paul Dillon said: “We are delighted for the school, the local community and all involved in the design and construction.
“Using minimal funds this school building is now an example of the social, cultural and economic benefits of sustainable growth in small communities throughout Europe”.
