Highlighting projects that combine innovation, sustainability, and design this year, Bruen Architects was awarded Single House Building of the Year award for their exceptional project, Sliabh Go Farraige in Building & Architect of the Year Awards 2025. 

This low-energy family home, nestled between the mountains and sea in rural Co. Sligo, demonstrates a seamless blend of tradition, sustainability, and modern architectural design.

Judges praised Sliabh Go Farraige for its masterful interpretation of a traditional Irish homestead, noting its sensitive integration into the surrounding landscape and thoughtful spatial composition.

“This entry captivated our judges with its masterful balance of tradition, sustainability, and modern design. Reinterpreting the essence of a traditional Irish homestead, it seamlessly integrated Passive House principles while supporting local craftsmanship,” the panel said. 

The panels also highlighted that from its thoughtful spatial composition to its refined textures and delicate handling of light, the project demonstrates a profound understanding of context, standing as an exemplary instance of considered and beautifully executed architecture.

Bruen Architects continues to raise the bar for creativity and technical excellence in Ireland’s built-environment sector, setting the tone for what the year ahead may bring. As anticipation builds, the question now is: who will define the standard in 2026? With entries officially open, new contenders are invited to step forward and showcase their achievements.

The remarkable work showcased at Sliabh Go Farraige reflects the creativity and technical excellence shaping Ireland’s architectural landscape. With momentum building across the sector, the question now is: who will set the benchmark in 2026? We’ll soon find out, with submissions for the Building & Architect of the Year Awards open until 19 December 2025, and winners to be revealed on 23 April 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry.

The awards organised by BusinessRiver, continue to celebrate innovation, creativity, and technical excellence across Ireland’s built environment. Each year, the programme unites architects, designers, and developers, providing a platform to showcase projects that redefine standards in design and sustainability.

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