RKD Designs' Advanced Manufacturing Facility wins Design Project of the Year at Irish Construction Industry Awards 2025

Celebrated for its visionary design approach last year, RKD was named winner of Design Project of the Year at the Irish Construction Industry Awards 2025 for its design of a state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Facility, a global centre of excellence for life-changing medical devices and associated technologies.

The facility demonstrates RKD’s ability to merge high-functioning industrial operations with environmental sensitivity and aesthetic excellence. Drawing inspiration from natural Irish design principles, the front-of-house and public-facing areas integrate local materials and thoughtful landscaping, creating a seamless balance between functional efficiency and contextual beauty. 

Internally, workflows are optimised for advanced manufacturing processes, ensuring both productivity and safety, while exterior design fosters a strong connection with the surrounding environment.

Judges highlighted the project’s meticulous planning and design impact. “This entry impressed our panel with its holistic approach to design, balancing cutting-edge manufacturing requirements with sustainability and local contextual integration. The facility demonstrates how architecture can elevate operational spaces while remaining deeply considerate of environmental and aesthetic factors,” the panel said.

RKD’s recognition reflects the high standards within the Irish Construction Industry Awards, showcasing how thoughtful design, collaboration, and technical expertise can deliver world-class industrial projects. The achievement illustrates how innovation and sustainability can be embedded in industrial architecture without compromising functionality.

Carrying forward 2025’s triumphs, attention now turns to the 2026 awards cycle, where projects will be challenged to combine innovation, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship. Who will define the next benchmark for industrial and advanced manufacturing design?

For a full list of past winners, category details, and updates, visit the official Irish Construction Industry Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive insights.