Client Office of Public Works
Location County Sligo, Ireland
Architect Hannon Young Architects
Value Confidential
Full M&E design for a new visitor centre inspiring the next generation of megalithic tourism
About the project
Welcoming visitors to Ireland’s oldest megalithic tombs is the Carrowmore Visitor Centre in County Sligo. It is an interactive space that educates visitors about the site’s awe-inspiring history with engaging artistic installations and presentations. The site has been placed on Ireland’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage status, marking this as a site of huge historic and cultural significance.
Working closely with Hannon Young Architects, CHH Civil/Structural Engineers and Interpretive Design Consultants Tandem Design, IN2 carried out full M&E design services for the 120m2 Visitor Centre. The brief outlined that proposed works must comply with industry standards and regulations whilst also respecting the interpretive fit–out vision and design set out by Tandem.
The newly-upgraded visitor centre celebrated its official opening on 2nd April 2026 and is set to bring a new perspective to Ireland's rich megalithic history.
Reviewing the existing infrastructure
Prior to any construction work taking place, IN2 were appointed to undertake a review of the existing infrastructure and develop a scheme design that aligned with both the Architectural plans and Interpretive Designers' ambitions for the fit-out of the exhibition area. This required in-depth analysis of the existing M&E systems and building fabric that confirmed the proposed changes' compatibility with current M&E regulations and upgrades. Following findings from this assessment, IN2 prepared a scheme design for the consideration of the client, architect and interpretative consultant, as well as a list of associated cost estimates.
IN2's subsequent scheme designs were then judged based on estimated visitor numbers and whether they would enhance the visitor experience overall. In addition, IN2 offered recommendations for the most suitable services solutions to enhance the visual and comfort aspects of the existing Carrowmore Visitor Centre building.
Assessing the compliance of a proposed upgrade
The proposed upgrade involved a complete redesign of the existing mechanical and electrical services, with focus on Tandem Design's proposed new exhibition. Enhancing the visitors' experience is the key focus of this exhibition with intuitively-designed educational material to create an immersive atmosphere within the centre.
Considering the nature of the exhibition area design by the interpretive consultants – which were communicated through mood boards and included features like wall elevations and projected images and presentations – IN2’s proposals were designed to both enhance and fortify such educational and artistic installations with reliable power and data connections. These designs also had to comply with industry standards and regulations. A new Guides Room, along with associated upgrades to Welfare facilities and external building accessibility elements, also formed part of the overall project scope.
Collaboration across all aspects of the project
IN2's detailed overview and effective coordination of all the wide-ranging aspects of this project - all of which required a unique set of expertise - showcases the consultancy's collaborative prowess. Such an innovative approach means that multi-faceted, immersive experiences like Carrowmore's see the light of day and can operate safely within stringent standards and regulations.
