1980 – Boole Library, University College Cork, Ireland

Designed by Tim Murray, partner in the firm of Murray & Murray, Pettit & Partners of Cork, and was part of the first phase of the 20 year Development Plan for the College prepared by that firm in 1972. Constructed on the site of a quarry from which the limestone of the main quadrangle was constructed. The Library is a five storey rectangular building that forms the fourth side of the original central quadrangle. Since extended to one side in 2007-08, the Library has matured very well, the granite aggregate used on the exterior contrasting with the red brick used in landscaping around the western side and the sunken courtyard. Named after George Boole (1815-64) who was the first Professor of Mathematics at Queen’s College, Cork from 1849-1854 and isbest remembered for his theory of logic, Boolean algebra.

“Use of the Quarry as a site has allowed a large proportion of the accommodation to be sited below the general ground level, and this will reduce the apparent bulk of these large buildings to a scale compatible with the very fine existing buildings. The top floor facing the quadrangle has been set back to allow the height of the existing parapets to be maintained, and sloping glazing has been used to simulate the existing roofs.

The silver grey Cork Limestone which was used on the older buildings is unfortunately no longer quarried, and an extensive investigation of alternative materials was made to find one which would be as close as possible to its colour and sparkle. White granite aggregate panels have been chosen to meet these requirements. The facades are modelled to give a strong sense of rhythm and scale. Windows are finished in dark bronze with brown glass to contrast with the light coloured panels and they are deeply recessed to emphasise the solidity of the building.”
Architecture in Ireland, June 1978

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