Carey Building Contractors + AXO Architects
Set within the dramatic landscape of Connemara, the new Benedictine Monastery at Kylemore Abbey, Co. Galway, represents a masterful fusion of tradition, craftsmanship and contemporary design. This exceptional project has captured national recognition, earning both the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Public Choice Award 2025 and the RIAI Housing Award 2025, and most recently securing a place on the shortlist for the 2026 Irish Construction Excellence Awards.
Conceived by AXO Architects and expertly realised by the distinguished Carey Building Contractors, who were entrusted with the commission by the Kylemore Trust, the monastery reflects a profound respect for both spiritual life and its extraordinary natural surroundings.
Thoughtfully integrated into the rugged Connemara landscape, the design balances humility and strength — echoing the monastic tradition while embracing modern standards of sustainability, comfort and durability. The craftsmanship and attention to detail evident throughout the build underscore a collaborative process defined by precision, dedication and shared vision.
The result is more than a building; it is a sanctuary shaped by place, purpose and partnership — an enduring addition to Kylemore’s historic legacy and a benchmark for architectural excellence in Ireland.
The project has resonated deeply with communities nationwide, earning widespread admiration for its architectural excellence and its meaningful relationship with both place and people.
Set along the shores of Pollacappul Lough, beneath the striking silhouette of Duchruach Mountain and in close proximity to Kylemore Abbey, the new monastery is carefully woven into its extraordinary landscape. Inspired by centuries-old monastic traditions, the design originates from a contemplative central garth and cloister, extending outward into a composition of brick forms that vary in height and scale. The architecture is calm and enduring, responding sensitively to its surroundings through considered proportions, refined materiality and visual harmony.
The new Benedictine monastery at Kylemore Abbey has been thoughtfully created to safeguard the sanctity and privacy of the Benedictine Sisters, who have called Kylemore home since 1920. The purpose-built complex, extending to approximately 2,292m², provides dedicated living accommodation for 15 nuns, including private ensuite bedrooms, a communal gathering room, a refectory and an enclosed cloister garden designed for reflection and prayer.
Given its unique setting within a popular visitor destination, careful planning was central to the delivery of the works. A detailed Tourism Impact Minimisation Strategy was implemented to reduce disruption and preserve the visitor experience across the Kylemore Estate. In parallel, a comprehensive Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) guided all on-site activities, ensuring environmental impacts were avoided, minimised or mitigated throughout every phase of construction.
Adding a distinctive and symbolic element to the completed monastery, a specially commissioned peal of five bells — cast in Poland and tuned to specific tones — was installed to mark the rhythm of monastic life.
The extraordinary precision and artistry achieved in the brickwork by Patrick James Construction Ltd (GTO McDonagh Construction Ltd) stands as a testament to craftsmanship of the highest order, reflecting the skill, patience and dedication that define this remarkable project.
– Donal Murphy, Features/PDB.Ireland
Photographs by Peter Molloy Photography
Carey Building Contractors
6B Liosban Business Pk, Tuam Rd, Galway
Tel: 091 773 800
E: info@careydev.com
www.careydev.com
AXO Architects
Ellison Street, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
Tel: 094 902 6094
E: info@axoarchitects.ie
www.axoarchitects.ie
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