The Brewhouse
Once the centre of brewing operations, the vats have now been removed and the Brewhouse is being carefully transformed and redeveloped to create a bespoke modern work space. The building is the only example of Bauhaus architecture in Kilkenny. This unique building is located beside the old abbey and has frontage on to Horse Barrack Lane which is being completely re-landscaped to provide high quality public space, all within a few minutes walk of the centre of the city.
The Brewhouse retention and redevelopment is an important link to the former industrial and brewing history of the Abbey Quarter site and accords with the principle of sustainable re-use of existing buildings. The redesign will ensure a high level upgrade to modern standards whilst respecting the industrial heritage of the building. The upgrade will keep the “industrial feel” of the building whilst delivering quality offices that meet the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design [LEED] standard with sustainability at the core of all design decisions for the building. When complete the Brewhouse will comprise 4500 sq metres of high Grade A office space, divided into 12 units wrapped around a central atrium. The building will be ready for fit out by the end of summer 2020.
The Mayfair Library
The new Mayfair Library was officially opened to the public on 24th April 2024. It is a modern, purpose-built facility with fiction and non-fiction books, a young people’s and children’s collection, and reference material.
This facility, previously home to the Mayfair Ballroom, has been transformed into a major public space with more than 1,800 square metres of community library space available over two floors.
The project was funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Kilkenny County Council, representing an investment of just under €7.2 million.
The library reflects what a 21st-century library should be, with comfortable seating and browsing areas, dedicated community exhibition space, programming and events throughout the year, public internet access, printing and scanning facilities, and a makerspace with 3D printing and scanning, sewing machines, and more.
The facility will operate as a “My Open Library” space, available for use by registered users for up to 98 hours per week, making it an accessible space for study and contemplation at times that suit people the most.
Kilkenny County Council’s overall library development programme, which includes the Mayfair City Library and future projects at Thomastown, Callan, and the Carnegie Library, demonstrates a real commitment to the principles of education, literacy, reliable information, and democracy. Opening the doors on the Mayfair facility today makes available a fantastic library to every citizen of the county for generations to come.
Link to Kilkenny Library Services: Home – Kilkenny Library
