Lough Corrib 471 – by Helena McElmeel Architects
Corrib Beo were proud to support the Lough Corrib 471 project, expertly delivered by Helena McElmeel Architects. This initiative played a vital role in reconnecting communities, celebrating local heritage, and inspiring future generations through creativity and a deepened engagement with the lake.
The Lough Corrib 471 project was conceived to reconnect lakeside communities historically linked by water but now separated by a 50-minute road journey. The challenge for Helena McElmeel Architects was to create a design solution that would re-establish a sense of connection across the lake, while also fostering engagement with its cultural and environmental heritage. Through a co-design process with local primary schools, the project has delivered two interactive installations on Kilbeg and Knockferry piers, situated along the axis of the historic ferry route. These installations serve as a visual and experiential link between the two communities, strengthening community ties and inspiring a deeper relationship with Lough Corrib’s landscape and built heritage.
The success of Lough Corrib 471 by Helena McElmeel Architects was further recognised on an international stage, as the project received the Inspire Future Generations Award in London for Best One-Off Children’s Activity, in association with Thornton Education Trust. This accolade highlights the project’s impact in engaging young people through creativity and place-based learning, setting a precedent for future initiatives.
The project was made possible through the dedication of a broad network of community stakeholders and four lakeside primary schools—Clydagh National School, Claran, Collinamuck NS, and St Annins National School—as well as partners including Corrib Beo, Architecture at the Edge, Headford Lace Project, Headford Something in the Water, Lough Corrib Navigation Trust, Galway County Council, OPW Ireland, Wild Galway Boat Tours, Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard Heritage, St Fursa’s Historical Society, and many more.
Such was the resounding success of this initiative that there is now a strong demand for it to become an annual event, reinforcing its cultural, educational, and community value for years to come.