Cork County Hall, the administrative headquarters for Cork County Council, was built in the 1960s. This project for its redevelopment involved the re-cladding and general fitting out of the existing tower block, along with the provision of further office accommodation in a six storey extension, a new concourse and council chamber.

 

The scheme proposed an L-shaped arrangement of tower block and extension, embracing a triple height concourse containing the council chamber as a special element. The concourse mediates between the various elements of the composition. It is a rectilinear hall of steel columns supporting a slender roof. It contains all of the more public functions at ground, first and second floor levels and can be accessed from three sides, allowing easy movement to the building from various car-parking areas.

 

The extension forms the southern flank of the proposal. It is six storeys high and accommodates the canteen at ground floor, the members' rooms and chairman's office at first floor and back-up administration office space on the remaining floors.

 

The new outer facade consists of primary vertical mullions which span from floor perimeter to floor perimeter in line with the existing structural column grid. Secondary mullions support a system of glass louvres which are climatically controlled. This active facade will allow a naturally ventilated high quality working environment.