A 1950s Irish church transforms into an award-winning sanctuary
Killyon Church in Enfield, Co. Meath, has earned national praise for its thoughtful renovation. The 1950s building, once plagued by leaks and poor heating, now stands as a modern yet intimate place of worship. Its redesign recently won the Conservation category at the RIAI Awards 2019.
The church's problems began with a failing copper roof, outdated heating, and an inefficient layout. In 2016, PG Architects, led by founder Patrick Gilsenan, took on the project to address these issues while preserving the building's character.
The team stripped and replaced the roof with an insulated natural zinc covering. They also installed a new gas condensing boiler to improve energy efficiency. Inside, the space was reduced from 5,000 sq ft to 3,500 sq ft, creating a more compact and welcoming area for the congregation.
Externally, the church retains its original features, including the bell tower. But inside, contemporary finishes and a reworked layout bring worshippers closer to the altar. The redesign balanced modern needs with respect for the building's history and local input.
The project's success was recognised in 2019 when it won the RIAI Award for Conservation. Judges praised its ability to blend old and new while solving long-standing practical issues.
Killyon Church now offers a warmer, more functional space for its community. The renovation addressed structural flaws while keeping the building's heritage intact. Its award-winning approach could serve as a model for similar projects in the future.
