Douglas Masterson, technical manager at the GAI, and assessor of the Specification Awards projects, said:
“Every piece of hardware had been carefully considered and was perfectly in keeping with the gothic nature of the original manor house. The bespoke ironmongery was particularly impressive. Every piece of hardware mirrored the smaller details of the hotel; from wardrobe fittings and light switches, even down to the badges of the hotel’s staff. It’s a truly striking building.”
The original Adare Manor was built in 1832 and is a rare example of a Calendar House. It has 365 leaded windows, 52 ornate chimneys, seven stone pillars and four towers to mark the number of days, weeks, and seasons in a year.
The project beat 19 other shortlisted projects to scoop the top prize in these awards which reward excellence in the specification of architectural ironmongery. Projects are nominated for one of four categories: commercial and hospitality; public health and education; residential; and international. There is also a fifth award focussing on new product design and innovation.
Adare Manor also won first place in the commercial and hospitality category (sponsored by ASSA ABLOY). In second place was the Royal Academy of Arts, London by dline Eisenware and David Chipperfield Architects. Third place was the Royal Opera House by John Planck Ltd and Stanton Williams Architects. The St Andrew's House project in London, also by John Planck Ltd together with DLA Architecture received highly commended.
The other category award winners were:
Public health and education (sponsored by Forza Doors Ltd):
First place: The Engine Sheds - Allgood plc and Historic Environment Scotland
Second place: Maggie's Centre, Oldham - Allgood plc and dRMM
Third place: Sense Touchbase Pears – d line Eisenware and Glenn Howells Architects
Commended: St Helena Campus, University of Derby - Em-B Solutions and Frank Shaw Associates
Residential (sponsored by Frank Allart & Co Ltd):
First place: Centre Point, London - Allgood plc and Conran & Partners
Second place: Caring Wood House, Kent - John Planck Ltd and Macdonald Wright Architects
Third place: 10 Trinity Square – izé and Aukett Swanke
Commended: Battersea Power Station Phase 1 - Circus West - Laidlaw Ltd and SimpsonHaugh
International (sponsored by dormakaba):
First place: Al Bait Hotel, The Silver Shore Trading Co L.L.C and GAJ
Second place: Four Seasons Hotel, Kuwait, Allgood plc and Yabu Pushelberg
Product design and innovation (sponsored by Allgood plc):
First place: Tectus Glass, Simonswerk
Joint second place: Guardian, Exidor, and Smart Entrance, Hafele UK
Third place: DC700G-FT Security Cam-Motion Door Closer, ASSA ABLOY