PUNCH Consulting Engineers

The RIAI Public Choice Award presents a special chance for the public to select their favourite building of the year in Ireland. This year, 44 projects from the RIAI Architecture Awards Shortlist are in the running for the Public Choice Award. PUNCH Consulting Engineers is thrilled that 5 of our projects are shortlisted and available to vote for.

Among the nominated projects are:
- Bon Secours Hospital Limerick: https://www.riai.ie/public-choice-award-poll/ -6
- Glin Court Residential: https://www.riai.ie/public-choice-award-poll/ -11
- Kilsaran HQ: https://www.riai.ie/public-choice-award-poll/ -19
- Shanganagh Castle Estate: https://www.riai.ie/public-choice-award-poll/ -35
- University of Limerick Student Centre: https://www.riai.ie/public-choice-award-poll/ -43

Each of these projects reflects the thoughtful integration of modern engineering solutions with aesthetic and practical considerations, aiming to enhance community life and promote environmental stewardship.

We encourage everyone to participate in the voting process, as your choice will help recognise and celebrate these fantastic projects. And if your choice happens to be a PUNCH project, that would be even better!

It's Global Accessibility Awareness Day, and at PUNCH Consulting Engineers, we celebrate the importance of designing and implementing solutions that serve all individuals, regardless of ability. Our team actively pursues knowledge about the latest accessibility standards and technologies to ensure our projects not only meet but exceed these expectations.

We believe that accessibility is a core principle of engineering that empowers communities. Working alongside clients and design team partners, we aim to make the world more accessible for everyone through collaboration and innovation.

We are delighted to share that the Merchant’s House Complex project in Kilmallock has successfully progressed to Design stage. The design proposal for the complex aims to conserve and enhance, with suitable interventions, the middle and rear sections of the Merchant’s House, transforming it into adaptable multifunctional spaces while also restoring the adjoining buildings.

The complex will include an Innovation Hub to support micro, small, and start-up enterprises in creative industries, including animation and production; Community/Civic facilities for meetings, events, and exhibitions; and Tourism Facilities, including visitor information and interpretative installations.

Additional features will include:
🌱A restored medieval garden
🛍️Retail spaces
☕️A café
🌿Greenspace in the burgage plots at the rear

The project aspires to draw in entrepreneurs, visitors, and community groups, boosting pedestrian footfall, enhancing vibrancy, and creating synergy with the nearby Friar’s Gate Theatre.

We are looking forward to progressing the project for Limerick City and County Council. PUNCH will provide Civil & Structural Engineering services, working alongside our design team partners.