Facebook
Twitter
The chq building in Dublin's Docklands wins major architectural award
The chq building in Dublin's Docklands has been awarded the title of Best Conversation/Restoration Project at the prestigious Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Awards 2008.
This follows chq's award earlier this year for Best Conservation Project at the Irish Planning Institute's National Planning Awards 2008.
Built in 1820 by distinguished engineer John Rennie, the chq building was originally a bonded warehouse. The building was made famous when it hosted the Crimean War Banquet in 1856 to celebrate the return of 3,000 Irish soldiers.
The building has recently undergone a €40 million refurbishment funded by the Docklands Authority and designed by Michael Collins Associates. Glass and stainless steel are the predominant materials used and act in direct contrast and compliment the existing structure of the building. The result is the revival of a building of architectural and historic importance that was close to dereliction, while creating a venue for positive commercial use for the local area and beyond.
Paul Maloney, Chief Executive, Docklands Authority, said, "We are delighted that chq has received this award, which reflects the excellent work done to restore the building in a sympathetic, yet modern fashion. The result is a building that we hope will become a Dublin icon."
chq opened to the public in November 2007 offering a range of dining, bar and retail opportunities. The chq building is anchored by Meadows & Byrne and Environmental Furniture with other retailers including Louis Copeland, Nue Blue Eriu, Ciaran Sweeney, Henry Jermyn and Bunnies by the Bay. Also located in the chq building are Fran & Jane, Kevin Sharkey, as well as cafés, Insomnia, Starbucks and House of Tea. The ely wine bar has also been trading successfully at the chq building since June 2006.
The RIAI Awards mark the highest achievement in architectural practice in Ireland. Now in their 20th year, the emphasis of the Awards is on the importance of quality in the built environment and ensuring quality is the rule rather than the exception.
