Background

Officially opened in June 1968, and located on the outskirts of Cork City,
the County Hall is a high rise office block that houses the administrative
headquarters of Cork County Council.

The Project

With the stated aim of "architecturally and environmentally
upgrading the existing building in sympathy with its format
and aesthetic properties", the award winning, €48million
redevelopment included:

• Construction of a triple height concourse as a new
  public space joining the existing tower to extensive
  new accommodation

• A new six storey wing providing additional office
  space, and a canteen on the ground floor
• A new three storey wing to provide accommodation
  for the elected members of the council and a new
  oval-shaped council chamber
• Complete refurbishment and modernisation of the
  existing tower and offices, including a climactically
  responsive, glass louvre façade for natural ventilation.
• Conversion of what was previously the council
  chamber into a conference centre and restaurant,
  in a new glass pavilion, on the 17th floor