Replacement of the Great Keep roof with an appropriate open oak truss design
RSUA Award winner 2021
RSUA Regional Award, Client of the Year Award, Sustainability Award (sponsored by Michelmersh)
Alastair Coey Architects with Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects for Department for Communities, Historic Environment Division
Contract value: £1.06m
GIA: 138m2
Cost per m2: £7,681
The castle is one of the most complete examples of Norman architecture in Northern Ireland. Replacement of the Great Keep roof with an appropriate open oak truss design has secured its integrity and allowed further interpretive and conservation works within the castle complex. The area beneath the roof is now a healthier environment for staff, visitors and historical artefacts. Green Irish oak was pegged and the structure clad in oak boards before being finished with Cumbrian stone slate. The ridges of both hipped roofs are topped with louvred timber ventilation lanterns which provide passive ventilation.