EXISTING FACILITIES

The existing hall building consists of a two storey element to the east and a single storey element to the west. The existing building fabric is generally tired and there is a lack of sufficient insulation or heating present. As is illustrated by the diagrams opposite, the existing layout is not compliant with current building regulations in a number of basic areas like accessibility and fire safety. The layout generally represents an inefficient use of space. Rooms are insufficiently sized to cater for the needs of the wider community.

The north-west corner containing a store and backstage is showing signs of severe structural subsidence and is in much need of repair.

DESIGN APPROACH

Given that the majority of the community felt the main hall was adequately sized, particularly when larger halls are available in neighbouring communities, the focus of the design is the provision of better supporting spaces; i.e. multi-purpose spaces, meeting rooms, dressing rooms and a gym.

With that in mind, the design retains as much of the main structure as is feasibly possible while extending the building westward. The existing hall is retained and relocated to the north-east corner of the building. This provides area within the original footprint for an entrance lobby, escape stairs & lift, and an office. The new extension to the west contains a Gym, a toilet block and changing facilities. Locating the Gym and changing facilities to the pitch side enables them to be used by the GAA pitch independently of the hall.

One of the concepts behind the design is the creation of a covered approach which defines the entrance to the hall. The inclusion of a seat allows primary school students to be sheltered from the elements while waiting for a bus or access to the hall.

Locating the sports related functions on the ground floor allows the first floor to become more community focussed. Two large community rooms are provided at this level, both of which have excellent views over the pitch. The larger community room also avails of panoramic views north towards an Stricín and provides passersby with a glimpse into the space to provide interest, particularly when in use.

The provision of two community rooms of varying sizes provides flexibility of use. A kitchen is located between the community rooms allowing it to serve both spaces.

A central lobby organizes the various spaces and the inclusion of a display cabinet for club and community history enables the lobby to become more than just a circulation space. Direct visual connections are encouraged back down to first floor via a window seat overlooking the main hall and a void over the entrance.