Monaghan Town Hall

Monaghan, Ireland

2018 - 2020

The restoration and extension of Monaghan Town Hall brings a prominent protected building back into public use as municipal offices for Monaghan County Council. Originally a bank, the building has been carefully adapted to accommodate contemporary working spaces and public facilities while retaining its architectural character. The design prioritises the repair and retention of existing fabric, balancing conservation with improved accessibility and the practical requirements of a modern civic building.

A new two-storey extension replaces a series of later additions to the rear, providing additional accommodation and improved circulation. Within the historic building, the existing staircase has been retained and restored, complemented by a new lift to create a more accessible and inclusive environment. Public consultation and meeting rooms sit alongside private and open-plan offices, with flexible space for exhibitions, lectures and community engagement.

Natural light and ventilation inform the environmental approach, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and supporting comfortable working conditions. Sensitive improvements to the existing fabric extend the building’s useful life while limiting unnecessary intervention. Together, the restored Town Hall and contemporary extension create a welcoming civic setting that supports communication between the council and the community it serves.

Internally, the building accommodates 22 council staff within a combination of individual offices and shared working spaces. Meeting and interview rooms provide settings for public consultation, while staff facilities support the everyday use of the building. The arrangement brings these different activities together within a coherent and accessible workplace.

Flexibility is central to the public spaces. An exhibition and lecture area allows the building to accommodate presentations, meetings and displays of proposed development plans, extending its role beyond day-to-day administration. These spaces strengthen the Town Hall’s connection to the community and support its continued use as a place for civic exchange.