WELCOME
Welcome to the RIAI Southern Region – Championing Architectural Excellence in Ireland’s South.
Discover a community dedicated to shaping a sustainable, innovative, and inspiring built environment. Stay informed, connect with fellow professionals, and discover the latest developments in architecture across the southern region.
The RIAI Southern Region is a committee and support network affiliated with the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland.
Committee Members
The RIAI Southern Region Committee is made up of dedicated architects and professionals who work together to support and represent the architectural community in the region. Each member plays a key role in advocating for the profession, fostering professional development, and promoting excellence in the built environment. The committee operates through a structured team, with members taking on specific responsibilities to drive initiatives, engage with stakeholders, and support fellow architects. Explore their profiles below to learn more about their contributions and expertise.
Upcoming Events
Welcome to our Events page, where you can stay updated on the latest happenings within the RIAI Southern Region. We regularly feature a variety of events, including insightful Lectures, engaging Talks, prestigious Award Ceremonies, dynamic Student Events, and vibrant Social Gatherings. Be sure to check back often for the most up-to-date information and follow us on social media for real-time updates!
11 days to the eventSun, 10 AugCorkStep into the Story of the City! Join Dr. Tom Spalding—a Cork-based academic and writer with a passion for Ireland’s built environment—for a free one-hour walking tour through Cork city centre. When: Sunday, 10 August Time: 11:00 AM Meeting point: Location and route details will be shared upon book
Date and time is TBDCCAEThe Benson Medal is a prestigious award presented to the top student of the year in honor of Sir John Benson (1812–1874), a distinguished Irish architect and engineer celebrated for his transformative impact on Cork City during the 19th century.
Get to Know Us
Our History
The RIAI South Region, part of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, was established to promote and support architectural practice in the southern part of the country. Founded in the early 20th century, the region aimed to foster collaboration among architects and enhance the quality of architecture in the area. Over the years, it has played a vital role in advocating for sustainable design and preserving architectural heritage, ensuring that the voices of local architects are heard in national discussions. The South Region continues to be a cornerstone of the architectural community in Ireland, driving innovation and excellence in the field.
Previous Chair Person RIAI Southern Region
Current-to date Ivonne Coccaglio
2023-2025 John Butt
2021-2023 Brian McKewon
2017-2019 Seán Antóin Ó Muirí
2014-2017 Louise Sliney
2012-2014 Haley Bueno
2010-2012 Kevin Smyth
2008-2010 Pat Ruane
2005-2007 Louise Cotter
2004-2005 Ger McCarthy
2003-2004 James Burke
2001-2002 Paul Hudson
1999-2000 Michael Hannon
1997-1998 Walter Stansfeld
1995-1996 David Tarbett
1992-1995 Patrick Whelan
1990-1992 Jack Coughlan
1988-1990 Alexander White
1986-1988 Donough O Murphy
1985-1986 J.Edward Keating
1983-1985 Neil D. Hegarty
1981-1983 Donogh O'Riordan
1979-1981 Dominic O'Flynn
1977-1979 Gerard O'Callaghan
1975-1977 James Barry
1973-1975 P. L. McSweeney
1967-1973 Col. James Buchan
1963-1967 Chevalier Boyd Barret
1953-1963 Eamonn O'Byrne
Past Events Photo Gallery
Explore highlights from our past events at RIAI Southern Region. From inspiring architectural talks to engaging networking sessions, our gallery captures the moments that bring our community together. Scroll through to relive these special occasions and celebrate our shared passion for design and innovation.
2025 Construction Industry Federation - Cork Dinner
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) Dinner is a prestigious annual event that brings together key figures from Ireland’s construction sector. It serves as a platform for industry leaders to network, celebrate achievements, and discuss the future of construction.
From the right, George Gill, Adrian O'Brien, Ivonne Coccaglio and Sean Hogan
2025 Construction Industry Federation - Limerick Dinner
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) Dinner is a prestigious annual event that brings together key figures from Ireland’s construction sector. It serves as a platform for industry leaders to network, celebrate achievements, and discuss the future of construction.
Adrian O'Brien and Ivonne Coccaglio Participate to the event in Limerick.
2025 CIF Southern Construct Summit
Ivonne Coccaglio and Adrian O'Brien took part in the CIF Southern Construct Summit & Exhibition, which brought together senior industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to discuss vital developments aimed at enabling the effective implementation of crucial policies to support a sustainable construction industry in Cork city and county.
From the right: Adrian O'Brien, Ivonne Coccaglio, and Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
Benson Medal
The Benson Medal is a prestigious award presented by the Cork Centre for Architectural Education (CCAE) in collaboration with the RIAI Southern Region to recognize outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and design excellence. Below is a list of past recipients who have earned this distinguished honor.
Benson Medal 2024
John Butt presented the Benson Medal to Aoife Cowman in recognition of her achievement. Congratulations, Aoife!
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Benson Medal 2023
John Butt presented the Benson Medal to Sarah Murphy in recognition of her achievement. Congratulations, Sarah!
Benson Medal 2022
John Butt presented the Benson Medal to Martha O'Donoghue Pearce in recognition of his achievement. Congratulations, Martha!
Benson Medal 2021
John Butt presented the Benson Medal to James Pearce in recognition of his achievement. Congratulations, James!
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