McConnell’s Distillery in Belfast has been shortlisted for a major structural Award from the Institution of Structural Engineers (IstructE).
The IstructE Awards, spotlight 30 of the most groundbreaking projects from around the globe. Building on the momentum of previous years, this year’s shortlist continues to showcase sustainability, ethical standards, and technical innovation – cornerstones that reflect the evolving responsibilities and contributions of today’s structural engineering community.
McConnell’s Distillery. Image: ©Kathy Tyndall.
McConnell’s Distillery is in the Crumlin Road Gaol, a Victorian prison built in 1845. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Northern Ireland and a Grade A listed structure.
Engineers led design for adaptive reuse of one wing of the building
The engineers led the design for the adaptive reuse of one wing of the building, converting it into a whisky distillery. This involved both the sensitive conservation and repair of stone and cast-iron elements, as well as more dramatic, contemporary spatial remodelling. Bar areas were created using cruciform steel columns, and the reception area is framed by distinctive V-columns.
The judges said of the structure, which was designed by structural engineering company, Design ID, that it was “an ambitious reuse and transformation project that goes well beyond typical restoration. This project team took a building of local significance and breathed new life into it by solving complex problems with structurally-led solutions. The structural interventions and statement precast concrete columns are daring and were guided by a commitment to maintaining the aesthetic, history, and character of this unique building. The duality of light-touch, conservation-led engineering and bold design totally reinvigorate the space, making it a showcase for creative reuse”.
The awards maintain a focus on the four judging attributes introduced in 2022: Planet (environmental impact), People (social value), Process (technical innovation), and Profession (collaboration and advocacy). These attributes, which have resonated strongly within the engineering community, are shaping a future where structural engineering plays a central role in addressing global challenges.
Championing environmental and social responsibility
As in previous years, the 2024 Structural Awards place significant importance on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. The shortlisted projects not only showcase extraordinary engineering prowess but also highlight the profession's commitment to societal and environmental stewardship.
Building on the foundation laid in 2022, this year’s awards continue to inspire a future where structural engineering is synonymous with sustainability and innovation. All entries were required to provide detailed embodied carbon footprint calculations using the IStructE carbon calculator tool, underscoring the industry's ongoing effort to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Professor John Orr said: “The structural engineering profession stands at the forefront of addressing global challenges, whether through innovative designs that minimise environmental impact or through projects that enhance the quality of life for communities.
“The awards celebrate the incredible talent and vision within the structural engineering community, setting a benchmark for future projects worldwide. I hope this shortlist continues to inspire current and future generations of engineers, driving the profession forward in our shared mission to create a better world.”
The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on November 8 in London. For more details and to book your tickets, please visit https://www.istructe.org/structural-awards/home/.