2004 – Croke Park, Jones’s Road, Dublin

Awarded the RIAI Gold Medal. Commenting on the award, judging panel chairwoman Joan O’Connor said: “Croke Park stadium is a landmark in the architectural, historical and cultural landscape of Dublin. It relates well to its neighbours and environment while being an elaborate but delicate signature on the city’s sky-line. Not only does it afford 83,000 visitors full and clear vision of the field of play, it provides a sense of community within its audience and is as impressive when empty as when full to capacity. The secret of the design is in the carefully balanced Y section which elegantly supports the terraces, concourses and the magnificent cantilevered roof.”

Accepting the medal, the architect Des McMahon said: “Croke Park has rewritten the rules for stadium design and is recognised internationally as a superb structure. Its creative design, in a restrained inner city context, creates a communal intimacy for spectators. The new stadium has helped reaffirm the historical importance of the GAA as a Gaelic cultural beacon. It is a tribute to the confidence and cultural values of the GAA who, through their generosity in sharing the venue with all sports, have engendered a sense of national ownership and pride.”