The public realm space The Sentinel sculpture in Westport, is among 50 projects shortlisted for this year’s RIAI Irish Architecture Awards, which were announced by The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI ). The Sentinal sculpture which was created by Ronan Halpin was commissioned by Westport Town Council in 2013 following the town winning the award for the ‘Best Place to Live in Ireland’.
The sculpture is constructed in bronze and stainless steel and stands more than six metres high. On its elevated stone plinth it overlooks the town of Westport, it depicts a spirit horse and rider and together they stand at the crossroads and point the way to the holy mountain, Croagh Patrick, and beyond.
Speaking at the announcement of the shortlist, Carole Pollard, president, RIAI, commented: “The 27th RIAI awards showcase current Irish architecture and it is exciting to see the new and diverse range of projects in this year’s shortlist. From domestic projects to international buildings like the ‘Arena for Learning’ at UTEC University, Lima – these awards celebrate Ireland’s architectural excellence and the creative individuals behind them. Investment in architecture is of multi-generational benefit and delivers long-term value across residential, educational, commercial and public architecture. We would call on design lovers to celebrate the quality of Irish architecture and vote for their favourite.” The judging panel for the 2016 RIAI Irish Architecture Awards are: Robin Mandal, chair (Robin Mandal Architects ); Denis Byrne (DBA Architects ); Douglas Carson (Carson Crushell Architects ); Fionnuala May, Fingal County Architect; and Louise Cotter (Carr Cotter Naessens Architects ).
Now in its ninth year, the popular RIAI Public Choice Award gives the public the opportunity to have their say by voting for their favourite shortlisted project, which has the honour of being named Ireland’s favourite building 2016. From today, the RIAI encourages the public to vote for their favourite building online on www.irisharchitectureawards.ie or through the RIAI Facebook page.
