Designed by Murray O'Laoire Architects, MTU Cork School of Music is a bespoke, purpose-built academic facility in a unique city centre setting.
Situated on the banks of the River Lee, and with an area of over 12,900 m², the School accommodates:
- 52 music studios, each with a Steinway Model B grand piano;
- the Curtis Auditorium, a 385-seat rehearsal hall;
- the Stack Theatre, a 120-seat theatre space;
- the Fleischmann Library;
- a professional, digital HD recording studio;
- an electronic music studio and audio lab;
- a movement room with sprung floor;
- a double bass, harp and percussion studio;
- a student common room;
- offices, classrooms and lecture theatres; and
- the Offquay Bistro.
The building is fully wheelchair-accessible with nearby parking facilities.
Externally the palette of red sandstone, buff limestone, blue brick and animated glazing reinforces the design of a confident, civic, and contemporary set-piece by the river. The theatre, auditorium and practise studios are solid and geological in form while the curved limestone façade reflects the river bend. In contrast, the top floor library and studios act as light boxes, benefit from stunning city views and are reflective of the sky.
