The competition, 'Building and Architect of the Year', will be held in the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin on 12 April 2024.
After securing a €5.1 million investment from the Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF), Waterford City and County Council, and Uisce Éireann, the project has improved Tramore Town's core into a connected outdoor pedestrian zone. Prioritising pedestrians over cars, the design has significantly increased foot traffic, benefiting the community with improved physical health, a cleaner environment, and a more robust local economy.
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The introduction of bespoke Irish limestone seating creates an inviting outdoor amphitheatre, attracting children who play while parents socialise at the nearby bakery and coffee shops. These seats also offer a resting spot for those navigating the area's steep terrain and double as a flexible performance space, hosting local parades and festivals.
Máire Henry, Director of dhbArchitects, said: "I see this as a joint award for ourselves, our extended design team, our client Waterford City and County Council, our contractor, and the very supportive Tramore Town Centre Management group. We all worked together to deliver a much-needed public outdoor space in the old centre of Tramore town."
Morris Conway, Acting Senior Architect with Waterford City and County Council stated: "This project has created a vibrant town centre, with its bright and open reclaimed pedestrian area. The stepped seating and cascading paving are as practical as they are eye-catching, creating an impressive focal point, attracting visitors and increasing dwell time of those who visit the area."
The Tramore Public Realm project was awarded a Commendation at the annual Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) awards in 2023.
