Distilling excellence: a toast to structural ingenuity
A year has passed since Design ID was honoured with the Award at the Institution of Structural Engineers Awards for our transformation of McConnell’s Distillery at Crumlin Road Gaol. The recognition marked a defining moment in our journey, one that celebrated not only engineering excellence but also the power of heritage, collaboration, and vision.
Cheers to the win
Winning the Award was deeply affirming. To have our work recognised by such a respected body of peers was both humbling and exhilarating. The project was a labour of love, spanning over 12 years from concept to completion. It demanded patience, precision, and a deep respect for the historical fabric of the Grade A listed Gaol. The joy of seeing our efforts celebrated on a national stage was shared across every department at Design ID.
Engineering the impossible
Transforming the derelict A-Wing of Crumlin Road Gaol into a fully operational whisky distillery was no small feat. The building, designed by Charles Lanyon and steeped in political and cultural history, posed significant structural and conservation challenges. Working closely with Like Architects and the Belfast Distillery Company, we developed a solution that preserved the integrity of the original structure while meeting modern commercial needs.
Traditional construction methods were employed to maintain the building’s character, and structural health monitoring ensured long-term stability. The adaptive reuse approach allowed us to breathe new life into a space that had been dormant for decades, proving that thoughtful engineering can be both respectful and revolutionary.
The ripple effect of recognition
The award brought widespread recognition, not just to the project, but to the ethos that drives Design ID. It validated our commitment to blending creativity with conservation and reinforced our belief in the importance of conceptual design. The project has since become a benchmark for adaptive reuse in heritage contexts, inspiring similar initiatives across the UK and beyond.
Internally, the win has energised our team and strengthened our culture of innovation. It has opened doors to new collaborations, attracted talent, and deepened our relationships with clients who value integrity and ingenuity.
Big ideas, bold structures – Think | Design | Engineer
At the heart of this achievement was a robust conceptual design process. From the outset, we envisioned a space that honoured its past while embracing its future. This meant anticipating foundation stiffness, navigating tight tolerances, and integrating materials that complemented the existing architecture. Every decision was rooted in a holistic understanding of the building’s history, function, and potential.
The journey continues…
As we reflect one year on, the McConnell’s Distillery project stands as a testament to what’s possible when engineering meets empathy. It reminds us that buildings are more than bricks and mortar, they are vessels of memory, identity, and transformation. We are proud to have played a role in preserving Belfast’s built heritage and excited for what lies ahead.
To our peers, collaborators, and the IStructE community: thank you for recognising the value of this work. Our journey continues.
Read more about the project