Dublin-based Newenham Mulligan Architects and London-based Grimshaw Architects have won an international design competition for the multimillion-euro redevelopment of RDS Arena. Managed by the Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland (RIAI), the competition saw five designs anonymously shortlisted, with the winner chosen by a five-person expert jury.
RDS, with Leinster Rugby, will work to complete the design of a new RDS Arena that will host professional rugby matches, equestrian sports, music concerts and other sporting opportunities.
Speaking about the winning design, Michael Duffy, chief executive of the RDS said: “The jury was unanimous in their selection of the Newenham Mulligan/Grimshaw entry. Their winning concept represents an exciting design response to a complex brief. Entries had to accommodate professional rugby, world class equestrianism and music concerts, in an already very busy events venue. These three elements were exceptionally well incorporated by the winning consortium who stood out for their understanding of the multi-faceted nature of the development and their vision for the RDS Arena.”
Focusing on funding for the redevelopment Michael Duffy said RDS has budgeted for an overall capital investment of at least €20m, while a number of potential funding streams are currently being explored, including naming rights.
Leinster Rugby will continue to play their home games as normal during the redevelopment of RDS Arena, which is expected to begin in 2016.
