Griffith College welcomed a visiting delegation from the Architectural Association of Ireland (AAI) on 18th May, to view extensive restoration work on the college’s historic Quarter Master House. This significant project, situated at the entrance to its Dublin campus, is one of a suite of initiatives to mark GC50, celebrating fifty years as Ireland’s largest independent third level institution. Leading the tour was main contractor John Lonergan of Revamp Conservation and Roofing Contractor Nick O’Byrne who outlined the conservation repair work undertaken.
Built circa 1890, the Quarter Master House is a detached three-bay, two-storey red brick building, most likely constructed following the conversion of the old Richmond Bridewell into Wellington Barracks. Over the last year, the college has undertaken significant sustainability and restoration efforts on this iconic structure, bringing it back to its original splendour. The work of the conservation team has been overseen by Conservation Architect Gareth O’Callaghan from JCA Architects.
These extensive renovation works, meticulously carried out to the original designs, are a testament to Griffith’s commitment to preserving the historical integrity of its Dublin campus. As part of its 2030 Campus Development Plan, the college has further ambitions to enhance and repurpose the Quarter Master House, ensuring it continues to be a vibrant part of its campus community.
Professor Diarmuid Hegarty, Founder and President of Griffith College, said, “The restoration of the Quarter Master House is not only a significant milestone in our GC50 celebrations but also an example of our commitment to sustainability and historical preservation. We are delighted to see this beautiful building restored and look forward to its continued role in our campus life.”
Eryk Rawicz-Lipinski from AAI noted “On behalf of the AAI, I would like to thank Griffith College for facilitating a site visit to the recently refurbished Quarter Master’s House. It is refreshing to see the commitment to good architectural conservation practice”.
Nick O’Byrne, who was involved in the roof work with Revamp Conservation, spoke of his time on this project saying “Taking this building from a derelict stage to its finished stage now has been a labour of love but historically very interesting. We were going off plans from the turn of the century, but it turned out really well and we are incredibly happy with it”.
