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Design Frontiers
The building and architecture sector is entering a phase of accelerated transformation, driven by innovative design, strategic investment, and evolving construction standards. This edition captures that momentum, showing how leading organisations are redefining living spaces, urban development, and resort experiences worldwide. Earlier this year, ‘COADY Architects’ Innovation Square Apartments wins Housing Project of the Year – Large' at the Architecture Excellence Awards 2025, setting a benchmark in sustainable, community-focused residential design. The 133-unit development features affordable apartments, communal spaces, and low-carbon district heating, with judges praising its balance of quality, innovation, and social responsibility. Meanwhile, ‘Ireland’s construction sector poised for sustained growth through 202’ underscores how sector expansion is supported by robust investment, policy guidance, and evolving industry standards, signaling long-term resilience. At the same time, ‘Maia Ho Tram set to redefine coastal resort living in Vietnam by 2027’ reveals how ambitious projects are elevating expectations for resort design, sustainability, and experiential living. These developments indicate a sector advancing through innovation, strategic growth, and design excellence. Readers are invited to explore these stories further, gaining insight into the forces shaping the future of architecture and construction.
COADY Architects’ Innovation Square Apartments Wins Housing Project of the Year – Large at the Architecture Excellence Awards 2025
After COADY Architects’ Innovation Square Apartments was named Housing Project of the Year – Large at the 2025 Architecture Excellence Awards earlier this year, attention now turns to 2026 as entries open for the next wave of innovative and socially responsible housing projects.
Sunbeam factory in Wolverhampton transformed into build-to-rent apartments
Wolverhampton’s historic Sunbeam factory is being redeveloped into 182 build-to-rent apartments by Pinnacle Architecture and Paragon Living, preserving heritage features while adding modern amenities, with high demand reported for phase two.
Maia Ho Tram set to redefine coastal resort living in Vietnam by 2027
Maia Ho Tram, a luxury wellness-focused resort in southern Vietnam, blends towers, villas, and amenities within The Grand Ho Tram Strip. Designed by Dewan Architects, it opens 2027, emphasising coastal living, nature, and wellness.
Belfast Stories set to transform city centre into cultural landmark by 2030
£100M Belfast Stories project revealed, transforming former Bank of Ireland site into a creative hub with visitor centre, storytelling spaces, and cultural attractions. Opening by 2030, public consultation underway.
AI adoption gives mid-size building firms a productivity edge, report finds
Mid-size construction firms in Ireland and the UK boost productivity up to 20% via early AI adoption. Widespread gaps in training, policies, automation, and data standardisation hinder industry-wide AI benefits.
Ireland’s construction sector poised for sustained growth through 2029
Ireland’s construction market is set to reach €11.83B in 2025, driven by residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and infrastructure growth, green building adoption, technology integration, and public-private partnerships.
Sector Momentum
In this edition, the building and architecture sector demonstrates both resilience and ambition through stories that span individual achievement, corporate growth, and international expansion. Entries for the 2026 Building and Architect of the Year Awards remain open until 19 December 2025. To reflect on the benchmark set earlier this year, Studio idir’s Katie Stringer Wins Rising Star in Architecture at the 2025 Building and Architect of the Year Awards highlights the emergence of innovative talent whose vision is shaping design practices. Meanwhile, John Paul Construction posts pre-tax profits of €23m as revenues climb reflects the financial strength and operational efficiency of a mature Irish construction firm. The report highlights how diversified project portfolios and disciplined execution support sustainable growth even amid market fluctuations. SSH expands into Morocco to drive urban and tourism development illustrates the sector’s expanding international footprint. By entering North Africa, SSH combines global expertise with local insight, targeting sustainable urban and tourism developments that respond to growing demand for high-quality infrastructure and culturally informed design. These stories chart a sector that balances innovation, profitability, and strategic expansion. They offer a clear indication of where the industry is headed and the opportunities it presents.
Studio idir’s Katie Stringer Wins Rising Star in Architecture at 2025 Building and Architect of the Year Awards
After Katie Stringer of Studio idir was named Rising Star in Architecture at the 2025 Building and Architect of the Year Awards earlier this year, attention now turns to 2026 as entries open for the next wave of emerging architectural talent.
SSH expands into Morocco to drive urban and tourism development
SSH, a Middle East-based architecture and engineering consultancy, has expanded into Morocco with a new Casablanca office. The move targets growing demand for luxury tourism, urban development, and sustainable architectural projects across North Africa.
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