After being nominated for the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Public Choice Award, AXO Architects topped the shortlist of 48 projects for their design of the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception at Kylemore Abbey, it was announced on June 18, 2025.
Read the article about the nomination: https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2025/06/13/mayo-firm-which-designed-monastery-nominated-for-major-accolade/
Read about the award: https://www.rte.ie/news/connacht/2025/0618/1519068-benedictine-monastery-choice-awards/
Read the official statement from the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland
Here’s the statement from The Kylemore Trust:
AXO Architects win top award as Kylemore Abbey’s Benedictine Monastery, Education and Retreat Centre at Kylemore Abbey named Ireland’s Favourite Building in RIAI Awards 2025.
The Kylemore Trust and the Benedictine community of Kylemore Abbey are delighted to announce that the Benedictine Monastery, Education, and Retreat Centre — designed by AXO Architects of Castlebar — has been voted Ireland’s Favourite Building at the RIAI Awards 2025.
Blending traditional monastic elements with contemporary architecture, the Centre sits in harmony with the iconic Kylemore Abbey, reflecting both the heritage and evolving mission of the Benedictine community. The building thoughtfully incorporates key monastic features such as a cloister, bell tower, library, chapter room as well as public space for education and retreats — realising a century-long vision held by the Benedictine nuns.
On behalf of the Benedictine community and the board of the Kylemore Trust, Mother Karol O’ Connell, Abbess said: We extend our warm congratulations to AXO Architects – and to all those whose support and work of hand and heart have made this project possible. We thank them for helping to bring our enduring vision to life.
Congratulations to AXO Architects for not only creating a vibrant and welcoming monastery for the Benedictine Sisters, but one that’s worthy of national recognition!
