Maynooth University to build new Student Centre

Thursday, April 19, 2018 - 10:00

Maynooth University and Maynooth Students’ Union (MSU) announced today they have appointed a design team to begin work on a new Student Centre to serve as the hub for student life on the campus.

The new building is part of the next phase of Maynooth University’s campus development plan, which is aimed at providing the critically important campus buildings and infrastructure needed to meet the changing needs of students, staff and the wider community.

The new Student Centre will serve as a home-from-home for students and a focal point for student life. The new building will open in early 2021 and serve as a hub for MSU, clubs, societies, events, and a variety of activities that help to create that special sense of belonging that is so important to the Maynooth student experience.

Designed by Scott Tallon Walker Architects—who also designed the University’s Library, Iontas and School of Education buildings—the new Student Centre’s distinctive architecture will create an iconic destination on campus that is welcoming, vibrant, friendly and inclusive. The Student Centre will be built and operated to the highest sustainability standards, including an innovative ‘outdoor living room’ under a sustainable canopy, blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor space and creating a unique space and resource for student life.

Maynooth University President, Professor Philip Nolan, said, “University education, and particularly a Maynooth University education, is not solely a question of what happens in the classroom. Every day, students are learning inside and outside of their lecture halls, whether it be in simple conversations, as part of a sports team, engaged in political debate, or sharing perspectives with students from different backgrounds. The new Student Centre will provide a proper home for the Maynooth student experience, one that reflects the ambition of our students and the type of experience we want them to have while studying here.”

Leon Diop, President of Maynooth Students’ Union, said: “This Student Centre is one students at Maynooth will be proud of. The visually striking, modern design embodies Maynooth student life, creating a ‘wow’ factor with lively, interesting spaces both inside and outside that reflect and support the diversity of interests and talents of our amazing student body. I’m thrilled this project is underway because of what it will mean for the Maynooth student experience.”

Professor Nolan said the University will soon announce details of additional projects within the campus development plan that are aimed at building capacity for research, teaching, accommodation and recreation.