A New Museum Transformation Reinterprets A Medieval Church In Ireland

‘St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum’ houses a collection of the city’s civic treasures, as well as “contemporary design to an exemplary standard”carved limestone tombs and monuments spanning the Middle Ages to the 20th century. “The project combines sensitive restoration and contemporary design to an exemplary standard”, stated the architects. The new museum “became an experiment in the use of archaeology to help define an architectural solution”, they continued. The architects rebuilt the northern aisle of the church and its chancel, cladding the exterior in lead and timber; thereby introducing a new materiality to the stone facade. Inside, clean white walls and a newly installed floor provide a neutral backdrop for the exhibits.