Category: Commercial Over €10m
Project: Gardens International Limerick
Contractor: JJ Rhatigan & Company
Client: Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC
Lead Architects: Carr Cotter & Naessens / Denis Byrne Architects
Contract Value: €22 million

JJ Rhatigan, one of Ireland’s leading construction companies, is proud to have successfully delivered Gardens International for our client, Limerick 2030.

Located in the heart of Limerick City, the project mixes the stunning architecture of the early 19th Century Roches Hanging Gardens with a gleaming new building to the rear, to form a brilliant architectural blend that sets a new standard for the city and region.

Taking inspiration from Roche’s vision – and honouring Limerick’s international entrepreneurial heritage – Gardens International will ensure that a site, that once astonished local and international visitors, will once again be associated with innovation, ambition and imagination.

Gardens International is a LEED Gold building, providing high performance Grade A office space. Its unique character is enriched by its combination of dynamic contemporary architecture and the old heritage buildings. It reimagines one of Limerick’s most historic and innovative buildings for the 21st century.

Limerick Twenty Thirty is a special purpose vehicle, created by Limerick City and County Council to transform disused, strategic sites in the city and county into economic engine rooms of growth. We feel as though JJ Rhatigan played an important role in aiding this initiative, by constructing an exceptionally high specification workspace.

Category: Commercial Over €10m
Project: One South County
Contractor: Collen Construction
Client: Cyril McGuire Infinity Capital
Lead Architect: TOTP Architects
Contract Value: €30 million

One South County is a Grade A LEED Gold and Wired Platinum office development completed over 23 months and is the first building of a planned office block campus, when complete will consist of three similar blocks located in Leopardstown, South County Business Park, Co Dublin.

Located in a sylvan setting, the design of the reflective glass facades maximises the existing mature park landscape, minimising the impact of the structure on the natural landscape.

The building consists of 5 floors of reinforced concrete structure over basement. The design boasts two parallel wings connected by bridges over four levels though the centrally glazed atrium. The building perimeter is glazed with the stair cores clad in limestone both internally and on external perimeter. The expansive atrium is enclosed by a sloped glazing roof and spider glazing on north and south elevations. The building has a sedum green roofing system with the plant room enclosed within louvred plant screens.

One South County is a landmark building set as the gateway to the business campus and delivers on the requirements of the buoyant commercial office development needs for both international and homegrown clients.

Category: Commercial Under €10m
Project: Hatch Student Living, Copley Street
Contractor: John Paul Construction
Client: Hatch Student Ventures
Lead Architect: Reddy Architecture + Urbanism
Contract Value: €8.5 million

Early identification of a project where JPC could bring their expertise and enthusiasm to enhance the final outcome of a project resulted in thorough examination of the tender for Copley street. Calling on a tried and trusted supply chain to partner our bid meant that we were going to have a competitive submission. Thankfully we were called for a post tender interview, and after the team (which included Site Managers from the award-winning Adare Manor) were introduced, abilities and past projects demonstrated, both client and design team had an easy decision in appointment.

The project was an exemplary example of collaboration from the outset where all bought into the mantra of “project first”. With the involvement of everybody a design development approach concluded with BIM images and virtual walk-through of an apartment. The constant attention to detail, regular quality and safety walks, and utilizing the last planner approach meant that works were meticulously planned and executed accordingly.

In an environment where opinions were welcomed, valued, and considered, design solutions were cognisant of sustainability, energy efficiency, maintenance, quality, buildability, safety and overall fit for purpose. Thereafter it was merely ensuring that workmanship was to the normal high standards of JPC.

Category: Industrial Over €10m
Project: Lidl Regional Distribution Centre
Contractor: John Paul Construction
Client: Lidl Ireland GmbH

Newbridge 2 has raised the bar for logistics facilities across Europe, in terms of its energy efficiency, it’s reliance on renewable and recycled energy sources and its mission to break the mould for the quality of staff facilities in a logistics facility.

While delivering exceptional quality was the major focus at tender stage, project execution and planning came into focus during tender negotiations as a 16month combined build between enabling and main build was curtailed to 13 months.

The successful delivery of this facility is rooted in the exceptional leadership demonstrated by John Paul Construction from contract negotiations and supply chain procurement, to the problem solving, can-do attitude of the team who set the culture for the wider stakeholders to collaboratively make it happen.

This leadership exhibited by JPC management relied on a team wide command of detail and standards, technical excellence at every level, personal commitment and an ability to get the right work done safely, when it needed to get done.

Delivering on our value engineering commitments, underpinned the commercial viability of the project and validated the technical ability of the “contracting” team to drive design innovation and optimisation.

Embracing technology and collaborative planning tools formed a significant part of this narrative, but it was the non-adversarial pursuit of excellence on all metrics; safety, considerate constructor, quality, commercial, environmental, and ultimately the endorsement of a delighted Client that makes this project a worthy entry for a Construction Excellence Award.

Category: Civil Engineering
Project: Lidl Regional Distribution Centre
Contractor: John Paul Construction
Client: Lidl Ireland GmbH
Design Lead: SDS Engineering / MCA Architecture
Contract Value: €73 million

Lidl have developed a new €100 million regional distribution centre outside Newbridge, Co. Kildare which consists of a 58,000m² warehouse, external hGv concrete yards of circa 80,000 m², and associated services on a 32-acre site.

The project required a significant civil engineering portion with respect to earthworks design and construction. The upper 3‐4 m of ground on the site contained stratified layers of soft alluvial clay, loose gravel and peat, which were unsuitable for supporting the building and external yard, road and carparking areas. John Paul Construction in conjunction with their designers and specialist sub-contractor prepared a ground improvement design which involved excavating, mixing and blending the alluvial clay and gravel and processing them into structural fill by lime and cement stabilisation. Soil stabilisation was also used to produce capping for the external pavements. The contract is the largest stabilisation project of its kind in Ireland and it sets a new benchmark for fill materials that can be stabilised into high specification structural fill and capping. Crucial to the success of the contract was the staged earthworks strategy devised by JPC, which allowed the building to be constructed in parallel with the ground improvement on a fast track programme.

Innovative design and construction methodology as set out above, including achieving excellence on all metrics – safety, considerate constructor, quality, commercial, environmental, and ultimately the endorsement of a very satisfied Client – makes this project a worthy entry for the Irish Construction Excellence – Civil Engineering Award.

Category: Education Building
Project: Trinity Business School
Contractor: JJ Rhatigan & Company
Client: Trinity College Dublin
Lead Architect: Scott Tallon Walker
Contract Value: €48 million

Trinity Business School truly was a complex project. As the main contractor, JJ Rhatigan brought a confidence and a deep level of experience to this city centre development. The collaborative approach taken from the outset was key to this project’s delivery and reflects the mutual respect and trust we enjoy with our client, Trinity College Dublin (TCD), our project design partners and subcontractors, together with Dublin City Council, city transport authorities and Irish Rail. From the installation of 12 ton beams within the auditorium, involving meticulous traffic management, to the precision engineering required to fit the helical staircase, all construction was carried out with relatively little disruption to campus life of TCD.

As a registered Heritage Contractor, we have the specialist conservation and restoration skills required to breathe new life into the protected buildings of Pearse Street. As a BIM level 2 project, we led the process communicating and sharing knowledge across all aspects of the build with every project stakeholder.

JJ Rhatigan is proud to have successfully delivered the new Trinity Business School. The development features nZEB energy performance achieved through a combination of passive design and low energy building and provides an enhanced educational environment for generations to come.

Category: Fit Out or Refurbishment Over €5m
Project: Life Science Office, Dún Laoghaire
Contractor: Collen Construction
Client: Confidential
Lead Architect: Henry J Lyons
Contract Value: Confidential

This Facilities Upgrade Project demonstrates construction excellence in both planning and execution. The project involved very significant interventions into a live aseptic pharmaceutical plant in order to carry out very significant modifications to the existing building structure and fabric, effectively stripping back over 50% of the building to bare structure and starting over.

The level of planning and coordination was very significant. This involved, Contractor, Design Team, Client Team & multiple Stakeholders. The potential for, and risk of, a significant business interruption was huge. During the construction phase, the project was identified by the client as the most high-risk Capital Project being undertaken in any of their facilities worldwide.

Collen Construction brought significant experience and expertise to this project and guided it with a steady hand from inception to conclusion, we worked well with all client representatives and Stakeholders and liaised very closely with the Design Team, addressing each problem as it arose and helping to come up with workable solutions.

This collaborative approach contributed greatly to the success of this project and demonstrates real construction excellence.

Category: Fit Out or Refurbishment Over €5m
Project: 2 Windmill Lane (2WML)
Contractor: John Paul Construction
Client: Hibernia REIT
Lead Architect: MOLA Architecture
Contract Value: €18 million

2 Windmill Lane (2WML) is the final piece of Hibernia REIt’s spectacular multi-award-winning Windmill Quarter. 2WML comprises the re-development of the existing Hanover Building within the SOBO district. Works included extensive re-modelling and upgrading of the existing 5 storey office block. Additional floors as well as extra width were added to create a 5,800m² development of grade A office space over 6 levels. The basement includes new staff shower/change facilities and new bicycle storage, with a 1,000 m² ground floor gym operated by Perpetua adding to Hibernia REIt’s ambition to create a multi-use community of facilities at the Windmill Quarter.

One of the biggest challenges on 2WML was the restricted city centre site, surrounded by residential and business neighbours on all sides. From the outset of the project John Paul Construction set up the site putting the safety of the general public and local residents as the highest priority. Ongoing stakeholder communication proved to be a success during the programme. Detailed logistic plans and scheduling trackers were established to ensure the refurbishment of the building went to plan. Daily whiteboard meetings with subcontractors enabled delivery schedules to be discussed and coordinated to the highest level, thus minimising impact on the local community.

2WML, constructed to LEED Gold standard provides unrivalled commercial office space within Hibernia REIt’s spectacular, multi-award-winning Windmill Quarter, where the Docklands, IFSC and City converge.

Category: Public or Heritage
Project: Historic Leinster House Restoration & Conservation Works
Contractor: Duggan Brothers (Contractors) Ltd
Client: Office of Public Works
Lead Architect: Office of Public Works
Contract Value: €11.3 million

The quality of the conservation works is acknowledged to be appropriate for the most significant 18^th century Town House in the State. With this extensive restoration work, Georgian Leinster House has been preserved for future generations of Members as the home of Parliamentary democracy and for our many thousands of visitors each year.

The Clients requirement in relation to Safety, Security, Fire protection, Communications and also the coordination of the Client fit-out works were met in full.

It is also acknowledged that the working environment for the members and their staff and the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas was maintained to an exceptionally high standard, throughout the works.

Finally, Duggan Brothers are proud of their collaborative approach and attitude towards working with all stakeholders throughout all of the difficulties. This traditional approach of working in this manner and refraining from relying on the contract, is all too often forgotten in the modern era of Public Works contracts and indeed a fitting tribute to the timeless tradition of the house itself.

Category: Public or Heritage
Project: Museum of Literature Ireland, Newman House
Contractor: Purcell
Client: University College Dublin
Lead Architect: Scott Tallon Walker Architects
Contract Value: €6.25 million

The completion of the Newman House Project heralds an exciting new era in which Irish Literature can be showcased.

Purcell are proud to have been a part of the delivery team for this landmark project. Through a non-adversarial approach, Purcell have always been able to deliver our best work to the Client’s ultimate satisfaction.

Our conservation expertise was undoubtedly a significant component in the successful delivery of the Newman House Museum of Literature Ireland project.

There was a trust built up between Purcell, the employer and its design team. We had to demonstrate that the building was in safe hands and that we understood and valued its historic fabric.

On reflection, we can be proud of the product left behind, safe in the knowledge that it has been adapted using the best materials and conservation practices.

We were extremely fortunate to have had such an excellent Design Team who in conjunction with the Client made the project a most enjoyable one to have been involved with.

Category: Public or Heritage
Project: Swords Castle
Contractor: Kelbuild Ltd.
Client: Fingal County Council
Lead Architect: Architects Department, Fingal County Council
Contract Value: €1.1 million

Kelbuild Ltd. were contracted to carry out conservation works to Swords Castle. This project included the following works:

Demolition of 4 nr. derelict dwellings / office spaces were carried out along the Northern Boundary, including stabilisation of remaining castle boundary wall, to enhance the visual impact of the Castle and showcase the stand-out feature of the East Tower. The repointing of the Tower internally and externally and the application of a Hydraulic Lime Harling in 5 coats throughout.

The removal of the existing castle wall walk handrail, the temporary removal of the stone paving, fitting of a new galvanised steel handrail, widened walkway with 3 no stairways, the installation of wash lighting and the reinstatement of the stone paving.

The Chapel roof works included the replacement of the existing lead gutters and outlets, the temporary removal of the Crenal cappings and embrasures, the installation of lead trays and the reinstallation of the Crenal cappings.

The works were carried out to a high quality under the direct supervision of the project Architect and the guidance of the project Archaeologist to deliver a project using modern engineering techniques while preserving the practices of conservation.

Category: Residential
Project: Cluain Dara Estate
Contractor: Capcon Building
Client: Landport Estates
Lead Architect: MDG-AT Architects
Contract Value: €2.2 million

This is a very exciting time in our Industry & Capcon Building are delighted to be playing our part in an improved residential housing sector.

As outlined in this presentation, Cluain Dara is the perfect example of a project benefiting from higher standards, more discerning clients and a more sustainable outcome for all. We are proud to handover units to clients knowing that their homes are fitted with the latest technology combined with the best quality materials available on the market today.

For the vast majority of house buyers, this will be the most significant purchase of their entire lives, so it is imperative that they receive the very best home we can deliver each & every time. Capcon Building, for our part, will continually seek better and more innovative methods and products to ensure that these high standards are maintained throughout the remaining phases of Cluain Dara and future developments for which we are responsible.

Category: Residential
Project: Marina Village, Greystones
Contractor: Glenveagh Properties Plc.
Client: Glenveagh Properties Plc & Sispar & Wicklow County Council
Lead Architect: O’Mahony Pike Architects (OMP)
Contract Value: €150 million

The Marina Village, Greystones project is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) delivered by Glenveagh Properties Plc., Sispar (a subsidiary of SISK) and Wicklow County Council. The project aims to rejuvenate the town’s run-down Victorian harbor by creating a high-quality Public Plaza, new water-based sports clubhouses, new commercial spaces for cafes, restaurants and shops within the Marina, a Boardwalk and 14-acre Public Park all complimenting the new residential development element.

Phase 1, managed by Sispar saw the construction of a new Harbour, Marina, Public Plaza, Breakwater, Beach and clubhouses.

Phase 2, delivered by Glenveagh Properties Plc, sees completion of the public works, park and residential element featuring 374 new homes, in a mix of house types and apartments all with a multi-generational appeal, built in an environmentally responsible manner, making use of reclaimed and previously eroded land. The project costs €200m with delivery from 2008 through 2023.

We believe our project rejuvenates the town generating jobs, new revenue sources and providing new homes for the area. It surpasses other projects with the scale of public infrastructure, range of quantifiable benefits for the local community, linkage of the old town of Greystones to its modern new seafront and scenic Cliff Walk to Bray.

Category: Residential
Project: Capital Dock
Contractor: John Sisk & Son
Client: Kennedy Wilson
Lead Architect: O’Mahony Pike Architects
Contract Value: €245 million

The Capital Dock Residential Development has set a new standard of living for rental residents in Ireland. Set on the Dublin Docklands, Capital Dock boasts some of the best amenities offered in the market and provide some of the best views in the city.

Sisk was engaged by Kennedy Wilson to manage the construction of this 21,000m2, €245 million development. From 2016 to 2019, Sisk, together with the Design Team, Building Management Team and the Client, created a culture of collaboration and determination.

Throughout construction our Project Team faced many challenges including bad weather conditions, difficult access/egress, a tremendously busy and crowded site (with six tower cranes, four mobiles/crawlers and 1,100+ workers on site), and ongoing design changes.

These challenges were met by:

• Creating a team culture based on collaboration, excellence and safety
• Applying innovative construction methods
• Engaging superior supply chain partners
• Applying our in depth knowledge of the market
• Applying lessons learnt
• Implementing cutting edge digital tools and processes
• Implementing proven Sisk management systems and tools

Sisk is extremely proud of our involvement in one of the most successful and iconic developments in Ireland.

Category: International
Project: Plumcroft Primary School, Vincent Road Campus
Contractor: Glenman Corporation Ltd
Client: Royal Borough of Greenwich (RB Greenwich)
Lead Architect: Pollard Thomas Edwards
Contract Value: €10.7 million

Glenman is an award-winning construction company widely experienced in working as a main contractor with public and private sector clients in Ireland. In 2011 we opened an office in London and, just six years later, we were awarded the contract to deliver Plumcroft Primary School after competing against a number of well-known British companies.

Our submission demonstrates the excellence that was borne out of the relationships built up between the project stakeholders. We have highlighted the key issues of the project for the client, illustrated how each issue was addressed and showed how this process led to positive results.

One of these results was that this high-profile development achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating for design and construction, elevating this newly-built inner city primary school into the top 10% percent of UK non-domestic buildings for environmental performance. To achieve an Outstanding Rating means to be ranked in the top 1% of UK Non-domestic buildings. With ambitious technical planning from Glenman, an impressive Outstanding Rating was achieved on 10 out of the 11 BREEAM minimum performance standards, deeming the project as an “innovator” for certain sustainable performance aspects and making it a well-deserving candidate for an ICE Award.

Category: International
Project: International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales)
Contractor: John Sisk & Son
Client: International Convention Centre Wales
Lead Architect: Boyes Rees
Contract Value: £83 million

The new ICCW is the product of a major investment and will make Wales a prime destination for international business tourism. The result is a stunning venue specifically designed for world class conventions, events and meetings. ICC Wales provides total floor space for meetings, conferences, exhibitions and events of 26,000sqm – the equivalent size to nearly four international rugby pitches.

An £83.7m joint venture between Celtic Manor and Welsh Government, ICC Wales accommodates 5,000 delegates and includes a 4,000sqm pillar-free main hall, a 1,500 seated auditorium, 15 flexible meeting rooms, a double-height glass atrium and a 2,500sqm outdoor plaza.

The South Wales region will reap the rewards with a positive outlook including the addition of 150 jobs for ICCW and many more in the supply chain. The wider hospitality sector will also benefit as a result with increased visitor numbers. One of the first events was the high-profile 2019 UK Space Conference.

The prestigious event brought in around 1,200 delegates and 180 speakers to the venue in September 2019.

Category: Specialist or Specialist Services Contractor
Project: Center Parcs, Longford Forest
Contractor: King & Moffatt Building Services
Client: John Sisk & Son
Lead Architect: Holder Mathias
Contract Value: €10 million

At time of contract award, Center Parcs, Longford Forest was the biggest contract that King & Moffatt Building Services had been awarded in Ireland, making it a milestone for the company, with a contract value in the region of €10 million.

Center Parcs, Longford Forest was a marquee project for our company and a major tourism development for the country and the locality.

The project programme was the greatest challenge for our company and for the project as whole, but through teamwork and a can-do attitude this was overcome and the project was delivered on time, within budget and to the client’s satisfaction.

This was a very important project that we are very proud of and that has helped raise our company’s profile and bring it to another level in the Irish construction market.

It is a world class facility, delivered to the highest quality and we believe that King & Moffatt’s work on the project demonstrated construction excellence throughout.

Category: Specialist or Specialist Services Contractor
Project: Western Road Student Accommodation
Contractor: SIAC Roofing & Cladding
Client: Global Student Accommodation
Lead Architect: DTA Architects
Contract Value: Confidential

SIAC Roofing and Cladding was appointed to supply and install the façade of Western Road Student accommodation delivered a high quality finish in time for the students arrival. Western Road Student accommodation is a 190bed complex located next to the University College Cork. Construction of the façade element for SIAC Roofing and Cladding commenced in January 2018 and completion in August 2018. SIAC were contracted to install Roofing and Cladding.

The cladding consists of 8mm Swiss Pearl fibre cement panels in varying colours and sizes, fixed onto and aluminium subframe and insulated with Kingspan Kooltherm Insulation. The client required the premises be open for students in September 2019. This target was achieved.

The building has eased the ever growing accommodation needs students face in the areas by supplying them with 190 beds to a high quality finish – a minutes’ walk from University College Cork.

Category: Construction Project Manager
Project Manager Name: James Moloney
Contractor: John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd
Project: Centre Buildings, Center Parcs, Longford Forest
Client: Center Parcs Ireland
Lead Architect: Holder Mathias Architects
Contract Value: €100 million

Finalist comment:

Center Parcs, Longford Forest is a truly transformational project. Managing the construction of the Center Buildings element of the project on-site was a hugely positive experience. The project could not have been delivered successfully without an incredibly engaged group of very professional individuals & companies who came together and cooperated in a truly constructive way, right all through a very demanding 18-month construction period.

I feel very fortunate to have earned the trust of my employers John Sisk & Son Ltd and been asked to take responsibility for the delivery of this project. When the Center Buildings project commenced on-site I had accumulated almost 25 years of experience working as a construction project manager both in Ireland and the UK.

I been involved in many great projects previously but Center Parcs was in many ways truly transformational. It’s a career milestone through which the past and future will be measured.

This project itself is a world- class development; it has allowed many Irish construction companies and professionals to demonstrate excellence. I very much believe that it is worthy of recognition by the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2020.

Category: Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Initiative Name: Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Contractor: Glan Agua Ltd

Safety and wellbeing are always at the forefront of Glan Agua’s approach. We are always conscious of safety on site and do our upmost to ensure that the health, safety, welfare and well-being of their staff, supply chain and 3rd party stakeholders. This is not only lead from the top but is instilled throughout all layers of the company. We go above and beyond the legislation to implement best practice and lead the safety programme in the Water Services Industry.

Glan Agua have worked collaboratively with our Client on our Health, Safety and Wellbeing Programme to try and actively improve industry standards. From a Leadership and Safety Culture perspective, Glan Agua worked closely with Senior Management in Irish Water and the members of the HSQE team to deliver collaborative solutions.

We will continue to strive for improvements in Safety, health and wellbeing across the company to ensure we are industry leaders in the water services Industry.

Category: Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Initiative Name: Mace, Clonee Data Centre
Contractor: Mace

At Mace our purpose is “to lead, inspire and enable everyone to go home safe and well every day.”

“Safety first, Second nature” is the value at the heart of our business’ delivery and we are committed to continuously improve our performance in health, safety and wellbeing.

Here on the CLN project, we have fully embraced the above principles and constantly seek to raise the bar in everything we do, by “leading and inspiring”. We are fully supported by our client, who as a global construction client, set rigorous standards for their contractors. Within our client’s portfolio, Mace are recognised as going above and beyond the standards required, and we are often called upon to present our initiatives and successes to their other GCs. At a recent performance review, our client recognised Mace as “promoting an excellent culture of safety across the project”. The most recent British Safety Council audit awarded this project 5 stars, and this culminated in a Sword of Honour award.

These awards and plaudits demonstrate our ongoing commitment to not only maintain but continually improve standards, and ensure everyone goes home safe and well every day.

Category: Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Initiative Name: HSA Case Study
Contractor: P.J. Hegarty & Sons U.C.

P.J. Hegarty & Sons are very passionate about Environmental Health and Safety. We not only want to ensure an injury incident free work place but we are also keen in developing industry leading standards and ensuring a positive safety culture that influences physical health and mental wellbeing for all our workers.
P.J. Hegarty & Sons is a family organisation and we treat any individual who we share our working day with like family no matter if they are a contractor, client or supplier. We are all one team with one shared vision and to achieve that vision we must work together in unison.

PJH have a Grade A Safe-T-Cert and ISO 45001 certification. We focus strongly on ensuring safety on all our projects is led by our management. In 2017 PJH developed and rolled out our “Supervisory Leadership Skills Programme” course which generated such a positive safety impact that we, in conjunction with Keith Foran & Associates Ltd., helped develop the new IOSH Environmental Health and Safety for Managers course which has been actively running since July 2019.

Ensuring our Project Management teams have sufficient training, information and support is the key to creating and sustaining a positive safety culture.
P.J. Hegarty’s biggest asset is our people and their influence. Environmental Health and Safety is a continual effort and there is never an end point. Our aim is to ensure we are focused on continual improvement and ensuring the best safety standards are implemented so all our workers can go home safe and hopefully with a smile on their face.

Category: Innovation in Construction
Innovation: The Digital Cube
Contractor: Collen Construction

Since its inception ‘The Digital Cube’ has become an integral part of project execution for Collen on our complex multifaceted projects. The module, housing large touchscreen panels and running the most advanced and cutting-edge technology, has brought the workspace environment of the office to the coal face of our site delivery teams. The innovative equipment embedded a safe and secure unit allows for rapid access to construction information while enhancing collaborative decision making and real time problem solving.

This innovative adaption of several discrete independent tools collated together in a single unitised platform empowers our multi-disciplined project delivery teams to have the most optimised means of gaining access to real time information as a collective. It fosters problem solving by presenting readily available solutions at their fingertips while embedded in the coal face of the work front.

The benefits of its implementation have been evidenced onsite from the reduction in time away from the workface thus increasing the output of our teams. This has been realised by enhancing KPIs, optimising and assuring quality, stead-fasting safety through collaboration and fast tracking the multidisciplinary execution process.

For Collen ‘The Digital Cube’ has embedded the future of construction to our projects of today.

Category: Innovation in Construction
Innovation: Robotic Block Laying
Contractor: John Sisk & Son Ltd (E05 Quebec)

Sisk have managed to turn a vision into reality. Through investment, collaboration with industry partners, research and product development as leaders in innovation, Sisk is committed to leading on innovation, such as construction robotics, in order mitigate construction safety and wellbeing hazards, while also delivering on our lean and sustainability strategic objectives. We wish to be seen as innovators in the industry and send a strong message to stakeholders in the markets in which we operate that we are serious about developing and implementing technology that is waiting to be adopted.

We believe that the investment in researching, piloting and implementing technology that reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, while also prolonging the working career of a diminishing cohort of skilled trades is invaluable. Moreover, when you consider that together with an innovation which not only enhances the human sustainability factors, but also increases productivity on site, this is an enabler for Sisk to offer our clients better value for money through, better productivity, a reduction in project timescales, overall better quality and a wholly leaner approach to the installation of brickwork and blockwork on our projects. For us, this is the definition of Construction Excellence.

Category: BIM Excellence
Project: ‘No.26’ Carolyn House, Croydon
Contractor: JJ Rhatigan & Company
Client: HSBC Pension Fund (UK) Limited
Lead Architect: Liam Russell Architects
Contract Value: £32.5m

JJ Rhatigan recently completed a major 23 storey, 183 apartment build-to-rent scheme Carolyn House, Croydon where a ‘Golden Thread of Building Information’ initiative was implemented digitally. The initiative demonstrates BIM excellence applying best practice in project delivery through the use of data, Autodesk BIM360 platforms and digital assets which sets an exemplar for future projects.

The project commenced mid-2017. In the wake of the UK Grenfell Tower disaster, the industry was subject to a major interrogation in the form of an Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety with Dame Judith Hackitt publishing her final report, ‘Building a Safer Future’ in May 2018.

The report set out fundamental recommendations in respect to establishing a ‘Golden Thread’ of building information as evidence of change control and associated record keeping. The aim is to create transparency, ensure accountability for decisions and disincentivise corner-cutting.

Ultimately, JJ Rhatigan’s BIM initiative implemented the principles set out in the Hackitt report, providing an accurate digital record of fire safety / installation to safeguards those who will use, live and work in buildings in the future.

Furthermore, JJ Rhatigan have led the field in embracing new technology across their supply chain, through training and bringing subcontractors along for the journey, many of which have changed their systems on other projects as a result.

Category: BIM Excellence
Project: CLN 5 (Hyperscale Data Centre)
Contractor: Mace
Client: Confidential
Lead Architect: Sheehan Nagle Hartray Associates (SNHA)
Contract Value: N/A

Such is our success on the CLN Project, we have been seen as the leading project across the our client’s Data Centre program worldwide which is currently over 15 projects in size. Many of our innovative processes, workflows and technologies have been standardized and rolled out across our client’s worldwide program, a strategy which is led by original members of our project team in CLN. It is not only our client that has noticed our successes in terms of BIM & Innovation, we have won numerous awards internally within Mace for our achievements and digital transformation, similarly to our client, many of our workflows and processes now being standardized throughout Mace Group worldwide. We aim to continue our digital and BIM journey, by learning from other projects and also developing more innovative ways to utilise digital means as a tool for efficient building.

Category: BIM Excellence
Project: Center Parcs, Longford Forest
Contractor: John Sisk & Son
Client: Center Parcs, Ireland
Lead Architect: Holder Mathias Architects
Contract Value: €250m

Center Parcs Ireland, set out to develop the Longford Forest Holiday Village with the aim of providing annual holiday and short breaks in this largely coniferous woodland which through careful design and management was transformed into a vibrant and diverse forest experience. The site comprises an area of 164 hectares (405 acres) and the development consisted of the construction of a sub-tropical swimming paradise, aqua sauna building, arrivals lodge, cycle centre, woodlands building, pancake house and associated amenities and facilities. Accommodation on the Village takes the form of 470 lodges of 5 different types which are described as self-catering holiday accommodation units.

Sisk, set out to delivery this project with their Digital Project Delivery (DPD) Approach utilising, 3D BIM for coordination of over 50 models from multiple disciplines from across Ireland, UK and Europe. 4D BIM was a major part of the effective project management during the construction of this project as the programme was critical to the successful delivery.

This project is a brilliant example of BIM Excellence in the Irish Construction Industry and we believe that it is worthy of recognition by Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2020.

Category: Third Level Course – Postgraduate or CPD
Course Title: CIT Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technologies
Course Level: NFQ Level 8
Provider: Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)

The School of Building and Civil Engineering at Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) has successfully delivered the 15 credit SPA Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technologies since 2015/16. The programme started as a Springboard offering but given the rapid advances in the use of BIM in the AEC sector in recent years it has proved a very successful CPD provided support to local industry. The fifth delivery of the programme is currently in progress, and when complete, a total in excess of 100 students will have completed the programme. The participants represent the full range of disciplines and include individuals from small, medium and large enterprises. The delivery team for the programme comprises a combination of CIT academics with significant industry experience and industry professionals currently delivering BIM projects in practice.

The future vision for the programme will see it as embedded award within the newly established NFQ 8 BSc (Honours) in Building Information Modelling & Management programme. This will support industry in its transition within the digital age. At an individual level, the existing and proposed programmes offer new and exciting career opportunities for technicians and technologists within the various cognate disciplines with the AEC sector. This is in keeping with CIT’s vision which is “to empower individuals and enrich society through innovative use of knowledge”.

Category: Third Level Course – Postgraduate or CPD
Course Title: Professional Diploma (Architecture)
Course Level: NFQ Level 9
Provider: School of Architecture, Planning & Environmental Policy, University College Dublin

The role of an architect in the construction industry is complex; it ranges from building designer, to client professional advisor, to design team leader, to contract administrator; architects are educated in design and materials, in the context of history and culture.

Their responsibilities are onerous; architects owe obligations to their clients, to those on the teams designing and constructing buildings, to society, the environment and their own professional codes.

In order to carry out this role, graduates must become fully conversant in the body of knowledge of the profession and have the skill and competence to apply their knowledge. Preparing for independent practice as a professional, through the Professional Diploma, enables students to develop key skills in research, critical analysis, objectivity and communication. The course supports them to become fully conversant in industry-specific practices, procedures and statutory requirements, and to understand their wider role and ethical obligations.

Category: Third Level Course – Postgraduate or CPD
Course Title: Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM) with Revit
Course Level: NFQ Level 6, 10 ECTS Credit module
Provider: Institute of Technology Tralee

This programme serves as a basis for IT Tralee to function at the core of the local Building Information Modelling (BIM) community of practice.

Learners are provided with a platform for practicing 3-D building modelling, attaching and editing associated information, developing that information through the project stages and exchanging it using advanced tools and internationally agreed formats. In a work-friendly, flexible online structure, IT Tralee acts as a hub for participants of multiple disciplines to engage each other to experience how BIM is implemented on projects. Content is linked to their current practice and ability so that they are able to use their newly acquired skills right away.

The course is a single 10 ECTS Credit module. Through lectures and project work, students create model content as a basis for collaborative exercises. Lectures demonstrate realistic workflows and how they are improved through the incorporation of the same BIM techniques that are being learned. Learners engage on their own terms, using their own experiences to the benefit of all.

Category: Construction Product Innovation
Product Name: Altherm ICF (Insulated Concrete Formwork)
Company: Altherm ICF

The future is in Nearly Zero Energy Buildings, and industry leaders are advocating the use of new and innovative construction materials in order to meet the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.

Altherm ICF is one of the innovations created by the industry in direct response to the demand for change and aims to change the built environment. This Irish made, NZEB-ready Insulated Concrete Formwork system consists of two EPS panels spaced apart by high strength polypropylene webs. This system forms a fully insulating, permanent shuttering mould into which concrete is poured. Its many advantages mean that ICF is becoming an increasingly popular choice across all kinds and size of build.

Once cast, the concrete core not only provides the necessary structure for the building with the structure’s lifetime durability, but also integrates with the ICF to provide superior sound insulation,  and with U-values of 0.20/m2k or lower being easily achievable, all adhering to the latest fire safety standards.

At less than 3.5kg each, the forms are a user-friendly system to build, with all of the related handling and safety benefits. Due to its innovative design, this increases speed of construction, reduces waste and meets the standards of the Building Regulations 2019 Part L – Conservation of Fuel and Energy.

The powerful combination of the patented, reversible interlock, EPS composition, innovative web design and web spacing result in a simple, strong framework system that requires less support during installation. The result is straight, flat and plumb walls and minimal wastage.

The response to Altherm ICF has been extremely positive.  Richard Callaghan of Delphi Design Architects and Planners says that it’s a fast and efficient way to achieve a well-Insulated structure, with extremely low thermal bridging at critical junctions.

The benefits of Altherm ICF can be clearly seen on site. It is very lightweight, eliminating the need for heavy craneage, and significantly reducing the risk of personal injury on site. The convenience of its all-in-one system lends itself to significantly shorter build times. Walls can be erected in any weather and programmes require minimal lead-time as the product can be delivered directly to site from their manufacturing plant in Dublin.

Altherm ICF enables significant reductions in build duration compared to traditional building methods.

Category: Construction Product Innovation
Product Name: Ascent 200
Company: RMD Kwikform

Ascent 200 is the next generation debris protection screen system. The system was designed to provide complete protection for workers and the general public during high-rise construction projects. Its features and benefits range from a new and stronger single depth mast, a choice of five different cladding options (including advertising and branding possibilities) and hydraulic climbing to opening slab jaw brackets and retrievable accessories. These make Ascent 200 top of the class when it comes to safety, versatility, saving money and time.

Ascent 200 addresses the challenges of major contractors and customers and offers a solution that meets the requirements of a changing market.

Ascent 200 is going to be launched in November and will be available in all our operating countries.