Timber environment for learning and research
Project in brief
Constructed in 1939, this former
Redemptorist Seminary was bought
by GMIT to house its Arts/Sculpture/
Media faculties on a second campus.
Following master planning of the
7500m2 buildings, two phases of
renovation/redevelopment have
been completed and occupied. A
final phase is now in Stage 4 DofED
procedures. New Sculpture
studios have been built to the rear
of the building, and plans are in
train to convert the former dining
hall to a performance venue, and
the former oratory to a
cinema/lecture theatre.
GMIT, Galway
Architects: de Blacam & Meagher Architects
Value: € 10m (2006, to date)
Project scope:
- Master Plan Development
- Spatial expansion through wall removal
- Extensive renovation and refurbishment
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Key features
Challenges
The original buildings were solidly
constructed from masonry, steel and
concrete. Much of the upper floors
were unsuitable for the desired
accommodation - being cellular
bedrooms with long corridors. We
surveyed the buildings, carefully, to
identify the main structure layout
and beam sizes etc.
Following our survey we reported in detail on the implications of various possible reconfigurations to facilitate value engineering. As part of the project vertical circulation arrangements were brought up to current standards (lift and stair shafts).
Innovative Solutions
One of the many features of this project was the removal of a considerable number of load bearing walls to provide larger classroom or studio facilities, and extensions to accommodate specific academic uses.
The centre piece of the Architectural design is a five storey timber framed and floored library, inserted in the old three storey south corner tower building. The stairs accessing the stack floors is in Irish oak.
College activities continued throughout the construction works.
Historical Renovation
At LeeMcCullough we have
exceptional experience of revitalising
existing buildings, which is often more
complex than the structural
engineering of new buildings.
Over many projects we have addressed and resolved a wide range of issues, including:
- Strengthening historical joists and beams to carry increased loading
- Masonry Decay/Delamination
- Threading modern services into old structures
At LeeMcCullough we always seek to identify and resolve issues early, innovatively address demanding building difficulties and deliver our solutions on time and cost efficiently.
When it comes to renovation and refurbishment, anticipating and resolving engineering issues effectively is the key to a successful outcome.
