The Irish Architectural Archive (IAA) is a treasure trove of architectural history, and its 50th anniversary is a perfect occasion to explore the wonders within. The IAA, housed in a beautiful Georgian building on Merrion Square, is a testament to the dedication of its chief executive, Colum O'Riordan, who has worked there since 1994. O'Riordan is a walking archive, knowing every detail about the building and its collection. The IAA was founded in 1976 with the aim of creating a photographic record of Ireland's built environment, particularly in the face of rapid change and potential demolition. This mission has evolved to include architectural drawings, documents, and even furniture, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in Ireland's architectural history.
One of the highlights of the collection is the Metropole, a former cinema, restaurant, and ballroom on O'Connell Street. The IAA now has the complete set of presentation drawings for the Metropole, which was demolished in 1972. O'Riordan points out the orchestra pit and the grand hall for dancing, imagining the vibrant atmosphere that once filled the space. The collection also includes the Ennis Workhouse in Co. Clare, designed by George Wilkinson, and a vast collection of photographs from the AA Illustrated Road Book of Ireland, capturing the country in a short period. These photographs, taken between 1959 and 1960, provide a unique snapshot of Ireland's towns and villages.
The IAA's basement holds a significant portion of its collection, with 600,000 photographs, 2.5 million drawings, and 40,000 items in the reference library. It also houses archives from various architectural practices, such as Andrzej Wejchert, Sam Stephenson's last office, and O'Donnell & Tuomey. O'Riordan emphasizes the importance of photographs, which remain at the heart of the IAA's work, alongside drawings and related documents. The collection includes the original drawings for Bungalow Bliss, a publication that has influenced the design of many buildings in Ireland.
The IAA also has a unique piece of furniture, a leather armchair with a hood that once stood in the GPO entrance. O'Riordan shares a fascinating story about the architect of Liberty Hall, Desmond Rea O'Kelly, who never retired and lived in the hotel room he designed for decades. The IAA's building is open to the public, attracting architects, students, researchers, and anyone interested in Ireland's architectural heritage. The IAA is working to make its collection more accessible, with exhibitions and social media engagement, to encourage people to explore the wonders of architectural history.
