The landmark MacCurtain Street Hotel was recognised for its exceptional contribution to Cork’s historic streetscape. The hotel was one of thirteen buildings celebrated at the annual Better Building Awards.
Organised by the Cork Business Association (CBA) in partnership with Cork City Council, and proudly sponsored this year by Marina Market, the Awards recognise excellence in the care, presentation, and enhancement of Cork’s built environment—from cherished heritage sites to innovative new developments.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dave O’Brien, President of Cork Business Association, said:
“For over 60 years, the CBA has proudly represented the interests of our members, and the Better Building Awards have become a favourite fixture in our calendar. These awards mean so much to those who are nominated and shortlisted. Maintaining and presenting these buildings at their best takes significant time, effort, and financial commitment. Today, we celebrate those who have shown true vision in how they build, modernise, and maintain their properties.”
The event was attended by The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, Seamus McGrath, TD, Brian Geaney, Asst. Chief Executive, Cork City Council and guest speaker Niamh Twomey, Heritage Officer, Cork City Council, as well as representatives from across Cork’s vibrant business community.
In her address, Niamh Twomey credited the property owners and businesses that care for the city’s built environment,
“The Better Building Awards celebrate the people who keep Cork’s architectural heritage alive — the owners and businesses who care for our city’s buildings, restore them with pride, and reimagine them for new uses while respecting their history. They are also the innovators shaping the built heritage of the future. Their commitment and creativity help make Cork a more vibrant, resilient and beautiful city.”
This popular competition attracted entries across ten categories, and in addition to the winners three Special Merit Awards were also given out to worthy recipients.
2025 Better Building Award Winners
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- Best Tourism & Arts – Bakestone, Perry St (Sounds from a Safe Harbour Mural)
- Best Retail – Planet Beauty, Brown Thomas, Winthrop St
Special Merit: Here’s Health, Oliver Plunkett St
- Best Café / Restaurant – Mantra, Princes St
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- Best Pub Front – Pier Head, Blackrock
- Best New Development – Le Chéile Building, MTU Learning Resource Centre, Rossa Avenue, Bishopstown
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- Best Commercial Premises – Kuma Bikes, Ship St/MacCurtain St
- Best Climate Resilience – Munster Rugby Centre of Excellence, Pearse Rd, Ballyphehane
- Best City Living – Springville House, Blackrock
Special Merit: Cora Murphy, Douglas St
- Heritage, Conservation & Sustainability – Cork Public Museum, Fitzgerald Park
Special Merit: Nadur Deli, Nano Nagle Place
- Judges’ Choice Award – The Metropole Hotel, MacCurtain St