In the 1960’s, the then president of St. Patricks’ College, Dr Donal Cregan, worked with the Irish architect Andrew Devane to modernise the campus. Devane studied in America with Frank Lloyd Wright. His style, described as “Soft Brutalism” can be seen in the use of concrete, steps and grey brick. The residents’ accommodation on the campus and the style of the dining hall are good examples of this style. The modern Cregan Library was designed by Taylor Architects and opened its doors in 2015. The architects were inspired by Devane’s Soft Brutalism - the panes of coloured glass in the foyer are a nod to the stained-glass windows of the old chapel. The foyer was designed as a public space which is open to the local community. 200,000 books were moved into the building in four days. Take a guided tour and explore the space, learn about the building and the campus, enjoy the music, and the view from the balcony.
