Kylemore Abbey was designed by James Franklin Fuller in the 1800s. Construction first began in 1867, and took one hundred men four years to complete 40,000 square feet castle. The building is known for its historic architecture and cultural importance to the surrounding area. The castle remained a private residence until it was sold in 1920 to the Benedictine Community. It then became home to a community of Benedictine Nuns in 1920 and has been renowned as a place of spirituality and education.
IN2 were delighted to be part of the
refurbishment works and new visitor experience which opened to the public in 2019.
We were responsible for the design and supervision of the strip-out and renewal
of the existing mechanical and electrical installation, on a phased basis while
keeping the adjacent Abbey areas live at all times.
Kylemore Abbey is a protected structure and therefore IN2 had to work closely
with the Architect, and all aspects involved detailed input from the
Conservation Architect. The differences in preference between architects and
IN2 on design were reconciled by the design restrictions that come with a
listed building. A pragmatic approach was adopted whereby there was an
understanding that many of the services elements that were required to be
upgraded were to improve occupant comfort, safety of people and protection of
the fabric of the building.
IN2 were also appointed as M&E consultants for additional works in the phased refurbishment of the Abbey areas, with the replacement of all primary services and life safety systems and complete refurbishment of some zones planned. These phased works involved upgrades to the visitor experience areas of the Abbey.
