Cuddigan's Yard Grain Store
Fourth Year Project
For my final year project I was tasked with creating a flexible multi-functional space in an adaptive re-use building.
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The Grain Store, which was constructed in 1800 has fallen into disrepair and dilapidation over the years. In recent years attempts have been made to revitalise the yard which includes other 19th Century structures but the plans unfortunately fell through and Cuddigan’s yard was once again left to deteriorate.
The proposed new function for the grain store, is a library. The library will benefit the community of Midleton by creating a new space for people to gather. Given the expansion of Midleton in recent years it has outgrown its old library premises and is in need of a new one.
Conceptual Approach
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The conceptual approach to this project initially looked at the building to develop the concept. The Grain Store was built in the early 19th century and is located in the town of Midleton in East Cork. During this time Midleton was thriving a thriving town and was home to home of the largest barley markets in Munster. Midleton’s mark on Cork’s industrial presence was further enforced by establishment of its multiple distilleries, including the Midleton Distillery in 1825. The first part of the concept developed from the machinery used to power these industrial buildings, mainly the water wheel and Watt’s rotative steam engine.
Later that century, beginning in 1845 and ending in 1847 Ireland was ravished by the Great Famine. The Great Hunger was caused by the failure of the potato crop due to blight. Since there was am over reliance on the crop, it’s failure had catastrophic consequences on the Irish population. During this time, roughly 1 million people died and more than 1 million more forced to leave Ireland. Despite the fact the Irish people were dying of starvation huge quantities of food were exported from Ireland to England.
The concept of this project looks at the machinery that powered Corks industry and exports while its people starved.
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Design Approach
The new library will feature the traditional printed books, newspapers and reading room, but also areas for people to work and study. These areas include workstations, meeting rooms for study groups, will be targeted at students from the different schools around Midleton, most of which are within a short walking distance from the library.
The ground floor serves two main functions - a reception space with a seating area, and a children's library. The first floor of the building features an exhibition space and a library. The second floor has a the second floor of the primary library as well as youth library, which houses a 3D printer. The third floor of the Grain Store is given over to a mix of individual and group work stations, as well as private study rooms and pods.
