Youth Community Centre
The Good Shepherd Convent, Cork City

For my final year studio project, I am designing a Youth Community Centre within the former Good Shepherd Convent. This project involves repurposing the building to take three or more floors. It involves creating multifunctional spaces for new ways to work, live, socialise and play. I will be showcasing my final design in May 2024.

The site operated as a convent, orphanage, and industrial school until its closure in 1977. One of the most significant criticisms of the Good Shepherd Convent, as with many similar institutions of its time, is that it was a Magdelene Laundry. With the horrifying history and the sensitivity towards the site, I have decided to approach this design by creating a youth community centre within my chosen building to provide a space where young people can feel welcome, comfortable, and secure.

Site Map

In shaping my concept, I decided to integrate arches into my intervention, drawing inspiration from the arched elements enveloping the windows of the building. This choice serves as a nod to enduring architectural traditions, infusing the structure with a timeless quality while breathing fresh vitality into its essence.

Of course, this investigation also included thinking about possible arched openings for doors or large rooms. I brought the idea of arched ceilings into vertical consideration. Incorporating arched elements into double-height spaces within the Good Shepherd Convent enhances the architectural grace and spiritual ambiance of the building.

Concept Sketches

Concept Model

The site suffered numerous fires since its closure, with several buildings lost, though the convent and its wings survive in a dilapidated state. In the early stages of designing, I have decided to only design the eastern block for my project due to the size of the buildings and as it is the most intact. The building consists of four floors, including basement and attic levels.