New book on modern architecture of Dublin co-authored by Mullingar man
A book on the modern architecture of Dublin co-authored by a Mullingar man was launched in the Abbey Theatre last month.
The Dublin Architecture Guide, 1937-2021 is co-authored by Cormac Murray, an architect and writer from Mullingar, and two other Dublin-based architects, Paul Kelly and Brendan Spierin.
The book was published by The Lilliput Press, which, incidentally, was founded by Westmeath man, Antony Farrell.
The Dublin Architecture Guide is a companion guide to the modern architecture of Dublin. With a total of 255 projects featured, the book will suit anyone interested in often under-appreciated or overlooked modern buildings.
It features many well-known, sometimes controversial buildings like The Civic Offices and Busáras, and many striking additions to the modern fabric of Dublin such as The Aviva Stadium or The Project Arts Centre in Temple Bar.
The guest speaker on the launch night was Dermot Bannon, who also wrote a foreword to the book.
He said: “This is a fantastic book. Until now, there has been no up-to-date book like this of buildings which are often forgotten… important, hidden gems and revealed gems. Books like this exist for other cities and now, finally, one exists for Dublin.”
The book also features an introductory essay by the architect Jonathan Sergison, who divides his time between his London and Zurich practices and his academic work as Professor of Design and Construction at the Accademia di Mendrisio, Switzerland, and as visiting Professor in Universities in Europe and the United States.
Cormac Murray, originally from Irishtown, is a past pupil of Coláiste Mhuire, Mullingar. He has previously written for architectural publications, such as Architecture Ireland and House + Design magazine. He also collaborates with graphic designer Eamonn Hall, on zines – graphic posters and pamphlets – which celebrate modern buildings.
The Dublin Architecture Guide is the culmination of five years work for the trio.
Cormac has another book in the works for next year.
When he’s not writing books Cormac practises as a qualified architect. He currently works in O’Mahony Pike architects and has worked previously in Canada, The Netherlands and France.
Lilliput Press has strong local connections. The founder Antony Farrell is a proud Westmeath man, and Lilliput first saw the light of day in Westmeath in 1984. It has published nearly 700 titles including works by James Joyce, JP Donleavy, Hubert Butler, John Moriarty and Donal Ryan.
One of Antony’s fondest memories is working with Mullingar author Leo Daly on his James Joyce and the Mullingar Connection in the 1970s.
The Dublin Architecture Guide, 1937-202 is available to order online and can be purchased or ordered through most booksellers including Just Books, Mullingar.