AUCKLAND CASTLE PLANNING APPROVAL
MARCH 2015
We have received planning approval and Listed Building Consent for the restoration and extension to Auckland Castle in Co. Durham. The project involves repairs and alterations to the existing listed buildings, a new museum extension and a visitor reception building facing the town square. Given the high sensitivity of this unique site, the planning process took almost one year, involving a very constructive dialogue with English Heritage and Durham County Council. The designs had overwhelming support from local people.
NIALL MCLAUGHLIN INTERVIEWED ON RADIO NEW ZEALAND
APRIL 2014
Whilst visiting New Zealand as guest lecturer for the 2014 Futuna Lecture Series, Niall McLaughlin was interviewed by Kim Hill for the Saturday Morning Show on Radio New Zealand. During the 40 minute conversation they discussed ideas behind a range of the practice’s projects including a private house on Ireland’s west coast, the athletes’ housing scheme for the London Olympics and an apartment block for the Peabody Trust in Silvertown.
The conversation also drew in wider architectural themes, touching on contemporary attitudes to construction and sustainability, Modernism’s tendency towards introversion, and the increasing disconnect between abstract ideas and built form.
Niall concluded the conversation saying, “I do think that buildings should be embodiments of ideas, and people working with architects should be confident to say, ‘These are my ideas. What kind of buildings can you make out of them.’ ”
To listen to the full interview click here.