Tommy Makem Arts & Community Centre, Keady

This project required the demolition of an existing centre and the construction of a larger building, more diversely equipped, better appointed, and more interesting architecturally: multi-purpose hall, exhibition space, reception area, catering and dining spaces, toilets, offices and audio-visual provision.

Foundations are spread footings supporting a steel and concrete structure on rock. Load-bearing walls are in reinforced concrete, polished and enhanced with quotations from Tommy Makem for aesthetic and cultural value. Several are angled to the vertical for dynamic effect. Floors are established in visual concrete throughout. The roof is largely steel with feature trusses; it includes an expressed steel beam with reinforced concrete soffit at first-floor level. In order to enhance the centre TAYLOR+BOYD provided services to restore a heritage waterwheel, provide paths and create a stepped podium that links the car park with the main building. Storm drainage, including a hydro-brake to control flow and to back up to off-set attenuation crates, was integrated with the local system.