The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has announced the winner of the prestigious RIAI Public Choice Award. 

With more than 20,000 votes cast by the general public, this year's winner is the Lark Concert Hall in Balbriggan, Fingal, by Stephen Foley Architects and CAMPUS. 

The Lark Concert Hall in Balbriggan.

The overwhelming support reflects the project's outstanding contribution to the built environment and its resonance with the community. 

RIAI president, Sean Mahon FRIAI, said: "The level of public engagement this year has been extraordinary, and I want to extend a warm congratulations to both the winner, and the runners up. The Lark Concert Hall truly exemplifies the excellence and innovation that the RIAI Public Choice Award stands for.

"With a record number of votes cast and a growing level of interest in the Public Choice Award, we can see the increasing public recognition of how quality architecture has the power to improve lives and shape the society we envision. Together, we are building a better future, one thoughtfully designed space at a time.”

The RIAI Public Choice Award seeks to find and subsequently honour Ireland’s favourite building or public space. This year’s shortlist featured 42 entries, which included nine stunning houses (new build and old), public housing projects by local authorities, workplaces, libraries, a distillery as well as innovative adaptions of buildings which hold great historical value.