Monaghan County Council is delighted to announce that two transformative projects — Monaghan Peace Campus and Church Square — have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 RIAI Public Choice Award, presented by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI).
This highly respected award invites the public to vote for their favourite architectural project of the year, recognising excellence in design, placemaking, and community impact.
Monaghan Peace Campus, designed by Hall Black Douglas, was conceived as an inclusive civic space —a ‘living room’ for the people of Monaghan. The architecture and surrounding public realm respond sensitively to the town’s diverse urban fabric, transforming a former brownfield site into a vibrant symbol of regeneration and community pride. The campus brings together a museum, library, and youth facility, unified by accessible, shared spaces that integrate seamlessly into the existing streetscape.
Church Square, Monaghan, designed by Henry J Lyons, has undergone significant public realm improvements, resulting in a dynamic, multifunctional civic space. Featuring high-quality limestone paving, tree planting, and versatile lighting, the square now supports community engagement, local economic activity, and cultural events, while preserving and enhancing the town’s heritage. This revitalised space exemplifies best practice in placemaking and urban regeneration.
CEO of Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns, expressed pride in the achievement:
“Being shortlisted for the RIAI Public Choice Award 2025 is a testament to the dedication of our project teams within Monaghan County Council, and the creativity and skill of Hall Black Douglas Architects for the design of the Monaghan Peace Campus, and Henry J Lyons Architects for the urban design to restore and transform Church Square in Monaghan town. This recognition highlights our commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant public spaces that enhance our county’s social, cultural and economic development.”
Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr Paul Gibbons, added:
“Monaghan Peace Campus and Church Square reflect the best of collaboration and innovation in our county. These projects celebrate our heritage while creating welcoming, modern spaces for the community. I encourage everyone to support these remarkable achievements by casting their vote.”
Voting for the 2025 RIAI Public Choice Award is now open, and the public is encouraged to explore the shortlisted projects and vote for their favourite.