The Turnmill

This design thesis was inspired by a desire to preserve the historical essence of the former St. Joseph’s Convent of Mercy, located in my hometown of Kinsale, Southern Cork. Though the once-derelict structure has recently been redeveloped into a complex of apartments overlooking Kinsale Harbour, the original façade remains intact. My goal was to design an interior that honors the building’s character while introducing a fresh, contemporary perspective. Drawing on ecclesiastical architecture as the central concept, the use of pointed arches became a defining element throughout the space. The design envisions a versatile venue capable of hosting a range of events, from weddings and exhibitions to conferences and film screenings. The overarching aim was to seamlessly merge contemporary and period design, resulting in a refined, elegant space that reflects both history and modern sophistication.