Commercial Architects in Ireland: From Retrofit to Renewable Energy by Studio Negri
- Mar 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Commercial architecture in Ireland is undergoing a quiet but important shift. It is no longer only about new buildings, much of the most meaningful work today lies in rethinking, upgrading, and re purposing existing structures to meet modern environmental, social, and operational demands.This is where experienced commercial architects play a critical role.
Studio Negri’s work reflects this shift clearly. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all design approach, the practice focuses on adaptive reuse, energy performance, and context-driven solutions, delivering projects that respond to both current needs and long-term sustainability goals.Across Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Arklow, their commercial portfolio demonstrates how architecture can transform not just buildings, but how those buildings function within society.
A More Grounded Approach to Commercial Architecture
At Studio Negri, commercial architecture is approached as a process of transformation rather than simply construction.
Many of their projects begin with existing buildings, structures that carry history, constraints, and opportunities. Through careful design, technical expertise, and planning strategy, these spaces are re imagined to serve entirely new purposes.
This approach reduces environmental impact while also unlocking value from underutilized assets, an increasingly important consideration in Ireland’s built environment.
Oak House, Cork – Commercial Retrofit with Energy Upgrade
The IWA Oak House project in Cork is a clear example of how commercial architecture can support both sustainability and social impact.
Originally a computer assembly plant, the building underwent a Change of Use to become a Resource and Outreach Centre. Studio Negri led this transformation, carefully adapting the structure to suit its new function.
The project was not simply about redesign, it involved a comprehensive commercial retrofit with a significant energy upgrade. Improving the building’s performance was central to the design process, ensuring that the facility meets modern standards while remaining efficient to operate.
The result is a space that feels purposeful and accessible, demonstrating how thoughtful architectural intervention can extend the life and relevance of existing commercial buildings.
Resource & Outreach Centre, Limerick – Reimagining the Former Krups Factory
A similar approach can be seen in the Resource and Outreach Centre in Limerick, another project rooted in adaptive reuse.
This building was formerly the Krups factory, an industrial facility that required a complete rethinking of its function. Studio Negri secured the Change of Use and developed the project as a commercial retrofit with energy upgrade, aligning the building with its new role as a community-focused centre.
Working with an existing industrial structure presents both challenges and opportunities. The design had to respond to the scale and character of the original factory while introducing new spatial qualities suited to outreach services.
Through this process, the building has been transformed into a functional and efficient environment, one that supports its users while significantly improving energy performance.
Arklow Bank Wind Park – Marine Control Centre for Offshore Energy
Studio Negri’s involvement in the Arklow Bank Wind Park marks a different but equally important dimension of commercial architecture.
This project is not a conventional commercial building. It is the Marine Control Centre and Operations & Maintenance Facility for Ireland’s first offshore wind farm, developed as part of a major renewable energy initiative.
The facility plays a critical role in supporting offshore operations, requiring a design that is both highly functional and resilient. It must accommodate technical operations, coordination activities, and ongoing maintenance support for the wind farm infrastructure.
In this context, architecture becomes part of a much larger system, supporting energy production, logistics, and environmental goals. Studio Negri’s design reflects this complexity, delivering a building that is efficient, robust, and aligned with the future of renewable energy in Ireland.
The project forms part of SSE’s flagship offshore wind development, which has recently progressed to the planning stage following the submission of offshore consent applications in 2024. This highlights the long-term scale and national importance of the development.
FLI Headquarters, Waterford – A Purpose-Built Corporate Environment
In contrast to retrofit projects, the FLI Headquarters in Waterford represents a new-build commercial office development.
Designed from the ground up, the project focuses on creating a modern, high-performance workplace that reflects the company’s identity and operational needs.
The building provides a clear and structured working environment, with attention given to layout efficiency, natural light, and long-term adaptability. As a newly designed office block, it demonstrates Studio Negri’s ability to deliver contemporary commercial architecture that supports both productivity and brand presence.
Why This Work Matters in today’s Commercial Landscape?
What connects these projects is not a single building type, but a consistent architectural approach.
Studio Negri’s work highlights three key directions in modern commercial architecture:
Adaptive reuse over demolition, reducing environmental impact
Energy upgrades as a core design driver, not an afterthought
Purpose-led design, where buildings are shaped by how they are used
This approach reflects broader changes in Ireland’s construction and planning environment, where sustainability and efficiency are becoming essential rather than optional.
FAQs
What do commercial architects do in retrofit projects?
Commercial architects manage the redesign of existing buildings, including Change of Use applications, spatial planning, and energy performance upgrades to meet modern standards.
What is a commercial retrofit with energy upgrade?
It involves upgrading an existing commercial building to improve energy efficiency while adapting it for a new or updated function.
Why is adaptive reuse important in Ireland?
Adaptive reuse reduces construction waste, lowers environmental impact, and makes better use of existing structures within cities and towns.
What role do architects play in renewable energy projects?
Commercial architects design operational facilities such as control centers and maintenance hubs that support large-scale infrastructure like offshore wind farms.
Is Studio Negri experienced in both retrofit and new-build projects?
Yes, their portfolio includes adaptive reuse projects like Oak House and Limerick Resource Centre, as well as new-build developments like FLI Headquarters.
Final Thoughts
The work of commercial architects is becoming increasingly complex, and increasingly important.Studio Negri’s projects show that architecture is no longer just about creating new buildings. It is about transforming existing ones, improving performance, and supporting wider environmental and societal goals.
Whether adapting a former factory, upgrading an existing facility, or designing infrastructure for renewable energy, their work reflects a clear and consistent commitment to purpose, sustainability, and long-term value.
If you are planning a commercial project, whether a new development or the transformation of an existing building, working with experienced architects is essential.
Studio Negri brings expertise in commercial retrofit, energy upgrade, and infrastructure design, helping clients deliver buildings that perform today and remain relevant into the future.Start your project with a team focused on thoughtful, high-quality architecture.
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