About

Set in the ruggedly beautiful west Galway landscape - and in proximity to the celebrated nineteenth century gothic revival Kylemore Abbey this new building draws on long established monastic traditions, perhaps the most notably that of the cloister plan form.

The architectural design of this monastery succeeds in reconciling interfaces between the public, semi-public and private realms but also between the timeless and contemporary. The building exploits the challenge of a steeply sloping site, while respecting and enhancing its remarkable context.

The design evolves from a central garth and cloister, unfolding into a series of brick volumes of varying height and scale.

The result is a serene and timeless structure that quietly compliments its landscape through sensitive consideration of context, scale, materiality, and visual harmony.

Image Peter Molloy

Awards: RIAI Irish Architecture Awards 2025:

- Public Choice Award Winner

- Best Living Project.

- Highly Commended in Sustainable Design.

- Highly Commended in Universal Design.

Project credits:

Client: The Kylemore Trust

Design Team: Architects: Axo Architects

Quantity Surveyors: Peter F Costello & Partners

M&E Engineers: IN2 Engineering Design Partnership.

C&S Engineers: CHH Consulting Engineers.

Main Contractor: Carey Building Contractors, Galway.

Architect led Tour - Benedictine Monastery, Education & Retreat Centre