Client Notre Dame University / Kylemore Abbey
Location Co. Galway, Ireland
Architect Axo Architects
Value €2.9m
A historic, centuries-old building that is shortlisted for 'Project of the Year' at the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2026
About the project
Kylemore Abbey was designed by James Franklin Fuller in the 1800s. Construction first began in 1867, and took one hundred men four years to complete 40,000 square feet castle. The building is known for its historic architecture and cultural importance to the surrounding area. The castle remained a private residence until it was sold in 1920 to the Benedictine Community. It then became home to a community of Benedictine Nuns in 1920 and has been renowned as a place of spirituality and education.
Working in conjunction with Carey Building Contractors and Axo Architects, IN2 contributed an environmental analysis for the next stage of the Benedictine Community's future, namely the new proposed Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey, Connemara. This involved the use of dynamic simulation modelling (TAS software) to assess natural ventilation, daylighting, Near Zero Energy Building compliance, and the Building Energy Rating.
The site totals 2,292m2 and is built to accommodate 15 nuns at any one time. Included are ensuite bedrooms, a community room, refectory, and cloister garden.
IN2's works were carried out on a phased basis to keep the Abbey areas live at all times
IN2 were also appointed as M&E consultants for additional works in the phased refurbishment of the Abbey areas, with the replacement of all primary services and life safety systems and complete refurbishment of some zones planned. These phased works involved upgrades to the visitor experience areas of the Abbey, which opened to the pubic in 2019. For that, IN2 was responsible for the design and supervision of the strip-out and renewal of the existing mechanical and electrical installation. This was completed on a phased basis while keeping the adjacent Abbey areas live at all times.
Kylemore Abbey is a protected structure and therefore IN2 had to work closely with the Architect; all aspects involved detailed input from the Conservation Architect. The differences in preference between architects and IN2 on design were reconciled by the design restrictions that come with a listed building. A pragmatic approach was adopted whereby there was an understanding that many of the services elements that were required to be upgraded were to improve occupant comfort, safety of people and protection of the fabric of the building.
Shortlisted for Project of the Year at the Irish Construction Awards 2026
The new monastery at Kylemore Abbey has been officially recognised as a feat of engineering and construction excellence. The project has been shortlisted for the Project of the Year award at the Irish Construction Awards 2026, marking it as a frontrunner in sustainability, heritage conservation, and unrivaled visitor experience. It was only through careful coordination and clear communication with the Benedictine community and local council that this project could go ahead. By navigating these constraints, a heritage building is breathing new life whilst the surrounding area has been pristinely conserved.
