The prestigious Fit Out Awards celebrated its 12th year with a glittering ceremony at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, where Reddy Architecture and Urbanism Group (Reddy A+U) emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, securing three awards including the coveted fit out project of the year for their work at the Newmarket Yards apartment development.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Mario Rosenstock, showcased the pinnacle of Ireland’s fit-out sector, drawing 718 attendees and featuring 174 entries across 30 categories.
The winning Newmarket Yards project, situated in Dublin 8, was praised for its innovative approach to urban development. The judges highlighted the exceptional achievement, stating: “The finalist demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to design and innovation, seamlessly blending functionality, sustainability, and creativity. Their approach was defined by thoughtful use of space, meticulous attention to detail, and a clear vision for enhancing user experience.
“The judging panel praised the team’s exceptional collaboration and leadership, which delivered remarkable results, from inspiring and vibrant workspaces to sustainable practices with measurable impact. This winner embodied excellence, setting a new standard in fit-out by prioritising the wellbeing of its users and fostering a positive, forward-thinking environment.”
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Lisa Smyth, director and head of interiors at Reddy A+U, expressed her delight at the recognition. “Our team and clients thoroughly enjoyed the Fit Out Awards 2024,” she said. “The standard of work shortlisted was extremely high, and we were delighted to pick up three awards on the night, and especially to win overall fit out project of the year for Newmarket Yards. The clever layout of amenities, roof terraces, bespoke joinery, and art installations garnered praise from end users and industry leaders.”
In another significant recognition, Justin Treacy, principal at Perkins&Will’s Dublin office, received the Fit Out Leader award. The judges celebrated his achievements, noting: “Justin has delivered iconic projects for global giants, including Microsoft, LinkedIn, and TikTok, translating organisational culture into dynamic, thriving spaces. Since joining Perkins&Will in 2020, he has led the Dublin studio through a period of growth and transformation, building a high-performing team and exceeding market expectations.”
The Fit Out Awards continues to be Ireland’s premier celebration of exceptional fit-out projects, promoting excellence and innovation within the sector while encouraging greater investment by showcasing its capabilities to corporate and public sector clients.
A distinguished panel of industry leaders, including international designers, commentators, critics, and fit-out practitioners, rigorously evaluated award submissions.
Linda McNally, owner of Clontarf Interiors and one of the judging coordinators, commented that the Fit Out Awards raise the industry’s profile and enable the winners to increase their scope of recruiting more clients and build their branding with internationally acclaimed accolades.
“The judging follows a strict set of criteria, primarily design, focusing on functionality and encompassing all elements of the submissions, including sustainability and innovative concepts adapting eco-friendly raw materials and efficient energy systems,” Linda explained. “There is also a focus on sourcing and employing locally and raising the standard of Irish design. The standard of entries this year has been outstanding, and it is encouraging to see how our industry has moved and adapted to the ever-changing landscape.”
Judging coordinator Ann Marie Aguilar, senior VP EMEA region, WELL Faculty at the IWBI, said the awards programme is very important as awards often highlight projects that incorporate sustainable design principles, encouraging architects and developers to adopt eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable construction practices.
“By showcasing innovative designs that prioritise environmental stewardship, the Fit Out Awards raise awareness about the importance of sustainability in the built environment among professionals and the public,” she added.
“Winning or being nominated for awards can motivate architects to pursue green building certifications, leading to more environmentally responsible projects. These projects can serve as models for future developments, inspiring other architects to integrate sustainable features and practices into their own work.”
Ann Marie also noted that award winners often involve community input and participation, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents in the projects being recognised.
The third judging coordinator, Sue Corcoran, programme leader at Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Midwest, said her takeaway from the Fit Out Awards 2024 was the exceptional quality and diversity of projects.
“Notable trends include the continued integration of biophilic elements into interiors, addressing the evolving landscape of how we work, socialise and live with innovative, agile, and dynamic solutions that enhance the user experience,” she added. “It’s also inspiring to see sustainability and performance taking centre stage, with interior fit-outs becoming increasingly eco-conscious and efficient.”
Among the winners, Philip Martin, managing director at Vardis Group, commented: “Being awarded designer of the year – rising star’ is a pivotal achievement for Meri Clinton. This recognition among the best in the industry highlights her remarkable talent and dedication. Vardis is incredibly proud of her success.”
Aoife Tobin, creative director at Style So Simple, stated: “The Fit Out Awards offer a unique opportunity to reflect on the incredible work happening in the design industry. It’s exciting to be part of an event that brings together such a diverse range of ideas and innovations.”
Finalist Hélène Broderick described the awards event as “a fantastic evening and a brilliant opportunity to connect with industry leaders. It’s inspiring to see how much Irish interior design has grown, with creativity and innovation reaching new heights.”
Shaun Bonner, group sales director at Etag, platinum sponsor of the Fit Out Awards, commented: “It’s always an honour to be part of the Fit Out Awards, which celebrate the very best examples of innovation in the construction sector. Each year we are impressed by the outstanding achievements of those working in the industry – the businesses that are pushing boundaries to set new standards of excellence.”
Hugh Ward, director of interiors at Ardmac, an awards gold sponsor, stated: “We are proud to support the Fit Out Awards as they recognise excellence and innovation within our industry. These awards not only celebrate the incredible work being done by talented professionals, but they also inspire others to push boundaries and continue raising the bar for quality and creativity in interior design and fit-outs.”
Michael Clarke, managing director at Walls2Workstations, and also a gold sponsor, said: “The Fit Out Awards showcase excellence and innovation across the industry, celebrating the projects and talent driving it forward. We are proud to support these awards, which inspire continuous improvement and foster collaboration. The event also provides a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues and industry peers, strengthening relationships and sharing ideas.”
Kevin O’Driscoll, director partnership programmes at Fit Out Awards organiser Business River noted that the awards event was made possible through the support of sponsors.
“We are thankful to our 2024 sponsor and professional partners, which include Etag, Zip Water, SAS International, T&I Fit Outs, MJF Interiors, RADII, MillerKnoll, DCON Safety Consultants, Noyeks Newmans, CRM Interior Fit-Outs, SIG Workplace and Steelcase, Ardmac, Whiteriver Group, Egger, Structure Tone, Vescom, Solutions, Tech Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Walls2Workstations, Bene, Optima, Texspace, Lumen Search, Surfaceform, Vibe by Vision Magee, Texfel, Elliott Group, Johnston Fit Out, Dalmoy, BWDI Ltd, Havwoods, Irish Wood Interiors Network, and Walls Construction. Their investment in the awards underlines their commitment and support of this key business sector,” he said.
Fit Out Awards judges
- Ann-Marie Aguilar (judging coordinator), senior vice-president, IWBI
- Sue Corcoran (judging coordinator), programme leader, Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Midwest
- Linda McNally (judging coordinator), owner, Clontarf Interiors
- Britt Berentzen, programme director, interior architecture & design, Griffith College Dublin
- Christopher Boylan, director, Plantech
- Vanessa Brady, CEO & founder, The Society of British and International Interior Design
- Yvonne Callan, director, Creighan Contracts Ltd
- John Cunningham, CEO, Mivan
- Alison Grace-Gahan, creative director GGI & senior tutor NDA, Grace Gahan Interiors & National Design Academy
- Robbie Hamilton, managing director, CRM Interior Fit-Outs Ltd
- Patrick Hilley, director, Hillmac Fitouts
- Ronan Higham, managing director, Pure Fit Out
- John Kelly, director, Furnishing Distributors
- Eoin Joy, chief property officer, Iconic Offices
- Jason Lawless, interior architect, Darkley Lodge
- Darrán Lennon, founding CEO & Creative Director, HYDE
- Roisin Murphy, architect artist and lecturer, Griffith College
- Lawrence McFarlane, studio principal, SLMD Ltd
- Aidan McGovern, chartered engineer, OPW
- Mark O’Donovan, managing director, Tony O’Donovan Office Interiors
- Cathal O’Hare, director, OHMG Construction
- Kay Sargent, director of WorkPlace, HOK
- Karl Simity, CEO, Canopy Fitouts
- Keith Somers, head of design & product, Lioncor
- Andrew Weadick, director, Andrew Weadick Carpets Ltd
- Patrick Wilding, senior interior architect, CBRE
Fit Out Awards winners
Fit out project of the year (sponsored by SAS International)
Winner: Reddy A+U – Newmarket Yards
Fit out leader (sponsored by ZIP Water)
Winner: Justin Treacy
Fit out contractor of the year (sponsored by Etag)
Winner: T&I Fitouts
Fit out design practice of the year (sponsored by Johnston Fit Out)
Winner: Mola Architecture
Fit out professional consultancy of the year (sponsored by Ardmac)
Winner: Axiseng Consulting Engineers
Fit out project management firm of the year (sponsored by Tech Refrigeration and Air Conditioning)
Winner: Turner & Townsend
Fit out project of the year – office new build (sponsored by Walls2Workstations & Optima)
Winner: Henry J Lyons – SMBC Aviation Capital
Fit out project of the year – large office (sponsored by Walls2Workstations & Bene)
Winner: Mola Architecture, JLL, & T&I Fitouts – Pinterest
Fit out designer of the year (sponsored by CRM Interior Fit-Outs)
Winner: O’Donnell O’Neill Design – Marie Smyckova
Fit out designer of the year – rising star (sponsored by T&I Fitouts)
Winner: Vardis Interiors – Meri Clinton
Fit out project manager of the year (sponsored by BWDI Ltd)
Winner: OAK Project Management – Michelle Perry
Fit out project of the year – international (sponsored by Structure Tone)
Winner: Castlebrook – Le Grand Hotel Cayre, Paris
Fit out project of the year – public sector (sponsored by Elliott Group)
Winner: K-Design Studio and Reddy A+U – Mayfair Library
Fit out project of the year – medium office (sponsored by SIG Workplace and Steelcase)
Winner: Henry J Lyons – Cadenza
Fit out project of the year – small office (over €500k) (sponsored by Texfel)
Winner: Mola Architecture – CNP Santander
Fit out project of the year – small office (under €500k)
Winner: RKD – KIC Executive Suite
Fit out project of the year – tourism & leisure
Winner: Reddy A+U – Newmarket Yards
Fit out project of the year – conservation (sponsored by Irish Wood Interiors Network)
Winner: MCA Architects – An Garda Síochána Headquarters, Block J
Fit out project of the year – hospitality (hotel) (sponsored by Vescom)
Winner: Roisin Lafferty & Henry J Lyons – Montenotte Woodlands
Fit out project of the year – hospitality (sponsored by Whiteriver Group)
Winner: MDO Architects – Allta
Fit out project of the year – retail (sponsored by Surfaceform)
Winner: Millimetre Design & Johnston Fitout – Carrolls Irish Gifts
Fit out project of the year – healthcare
Winner: Reddy A+U – The Four Ferns
Excellence in sustainability (sponsored by Egger)
Winner: Structure Tone
Excellence in design collaboration (sponsored by MJF Interiors)
Winner: Mola Architecture, JLL, & T&I Fitouts – Pinterest
Excellence in health and safety (sponsored by DCON Safety Consultants)
Winner: Structure Tone
Fit out sub-contractor of the year (sponsored by Etag)
Winner: Truwood
Fit out project of the year – residential (large) (sponsored by Solutions)
Winner: O’Connor Sutton Cronin – Two Oaks
Fit out project of the year – single residential (large) (sponsored by Surfaceform)
Winner: Roisin Lafferty – Two to One Residence
Fit out project of the year – single residential (sponsored by Havwoods)
Winner: Style So Simple – Home by the Sea
Fit out client of the year (sponsored by Vibe by Vision Magee)
Winner: Mola Architecture, JLL, T&I Fitouts – Pinterest
