RA Architecture Prize winner 2023 Shane de Blacam
Working predominantly in Ireland, De Blacam’s buildings are characterised by their simplicity and their celebration of local materials.
In both new buildings, and sensitive historic restorations, de Blacam’s practice reminds us of the power of craftsmanship to create spaces where we can come together for stillness and reflection.
The 2023 Royal Academy Architecture Prize Programme jury
Dining Hall Restoration. Appointment Provost Fellows Scholars TCD
Meet Shane de Blacam
The Royal Academy Architecture Prize 2023 has been awarded to Shane de Blacam.
The jury was impressed by his commitment to creating communal spaces. They also highlighted his remarkable craftsmanship and the pleasure he takes in joinery and detail.
De Blacam formed the architectural practice de Blacam and Meagher with John Meagher in 1976. De Blacam’s buildings are characterised by their simplicity and their celebration of local materials. Throughout his career, he has been concerned with creating spaces for people to come together, including the sensitively restored Abbeyleix Library in Laois and the elegant Samuel Beckett Theatre at Trinity College, Dublin.
Before forming his practice with Meagher, de Blacam worked in London with the architects of the Barbican Centre, Chamberlain, Powell and Bon. He then travelled to America where he worked with Louis I. Khan for two years on the Mellon Centre for British Art and British Studies, Yale University, New Haven Connecticut. More information about de Blacam's work can be downloaded.
Gallery
Phoenix Park, Dublin. International Competition OPW Prize Entry
Firhouse, Dublin. Dioceses of Dublin Competition Prize Entry.
Dining Hall Restoration. Appointment Provost Fellows Scholars TCD
near Dublin Castle. Appointment Temple Bar Development Company
Abbeyleix, Laois. Appointment Laois County Council.
Appointment CIT with BBMOC
3 Buildings. Administration, Tourism & Hospitality, Student Centre. Appointment MUT with BBMOC
Dublin. Appointment Island Capital Limited.
From RA Magazine
Shane de Blacam’s former student, critic Shane O’Toole, celebrates the architect’s thoughtful transformation of public places across his home country of Ireland.
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Royal Academy Architecture Prize
The RA Architecture Prize is awarded to an architect or individual who has been instrumental in shaping the discussion, collection or production of architecture.