The stage is set for an exciting run up to this year’s Cork Better Building Awards, as the shortlist unveils properties from across the city and greater city area. As well as direct nominations, the public have nominated their own favourite buildings that make a positive impact on the Cork built environment. As a result, the shortlist represents a diverse mix of multinational, national and independent businesses.
The awards, which are organised by Cork Business Association and supported by Cork City Council, are judged by an independent panel of experts in business, heritage, planning and
placemaking – Lawrence Owens, past President of the Cork Business Association; Shane Clarke, Director, Garden City Culture; Ashleigh Murray, Conservation Officer, Cork City Council and Gwen Jordan, Senior Executive Planner, Cork City Council.
Lawrence Owens, speaking on behalf of the judging panel, emphasized the profound impact that the maintenance and visual appeal of buildings has on the overall well-being of the city and its community.
“ These awards recognise the effort and investment that goes into maintaining and enhancing Cork’s built environment. We are lucky to be surrounded by such architectural diversity and to enjoy the contribution these buildings make to the city’s rich cultural tapestry.” said Owens.
The number of submissions increased again this year and the judging of each category will be keenly debated in the coming days, This year again there will be awards for City Living which recognises the efforts of those building residential units in Cork city and for Climate Resilience, which celebrates those who have gone above and beyond in ensuring that their buildings meet and exceed expectations for sustainability and green energy usage.
The shortlisted nominees for the Cork Better Building Awards 2024 are –
Best in Heritage, Conservation & Sustainability
Mercy Hospital Entrance
Mercy Hospital Foundation, Cancer Care Centre
MTU, School of Art, Grand Parade
Best Retail Frontage
Tudor Rose, Ballincollig
Here’s Health, Oliver Plunkett St
Mango, St. Patrick’s St
Best New Development
97 North Main St
Bottleworks Student Accommodation, Carrigrohane Road
7,8,9, Quaker Road
Best Commercial Development
JW O’Donovan Solicitors
Shed, French Church St
Savills, Penrose Dock
Climate Resilience Award
Cork Chamber of Commerce
Gabriel House
Old Oak
Best Café / Restaurant
Proby’s Kitchen, Proby’s Quay
Boru Café, Brian Boru St
Palador, Bridge St
Best in Tourism and Arts
The Moxy
The Former Moores Hotel, Morrisons Island
Elizabeth Fort
Best Pub Front
Pier Head, Blackrock
77, Grand Parade
Old Brennans, Oliver Plunkett St
City Living Award
21 Evergreen St
Evenus
Barrack St Housing Project
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in The Kingsley Hotel, Carrigrohane Road, on Friday 15 th November. As well as the nine categories, a special Judges Choice will be revealed
on the day.