'World-class' team recruited as Portlaoise GAA revamp officially begins in Laois

Work has officially commenced on its ambitious redevelopment of Portlaoise GAA Club, with the club announcing that a 'world-class' design team is leading the project in Rathleague.

Following the approval of detailed plans last year by Laois County Council, the first phase of construction includes the development of a full-size outdoor all-weather pitch, and a new car park, both scheduled for completion in spring 2026.

A statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live said the project would then progress to its next major stage, which will include the construction of a new clubhouse and indoor training facility, a viewing stand, comprehensive site landscaping, as well as pitch and floodlight enhancements. 

The statement said the redevelopment is being guided by "a world-class project team", led by Olson Kundig as Lead Architect. A statement said they are internationally recognised as one of the most influential architecture and design practices, with projects spanning sports and cultural and civic centres, workplaces and more.

With a global portfolio, it is also claimed that Olson Kundig is widely respected for work that combines architectural excellence with deep social and community relevance.

The Club says this approach is significant as the redeveloped grounds Portlaoise will serve as a lasting commemoration of Eoin and Dylan Fitzpatrick. Travis and Maryse Knight, (née Fitzpatrick), is supporting the project in commemoration of Maryse’s beloved brother and nephew, Eoin and Dylan, who tragically lost their lives in a road traffic accident in Turkey in July 2023.

Eoin Fitzpatrick pictured with his eldest child Cian, alongside Dylan, after a Portlaoise game. 

A statement said Olson Kundig’s design would honour their legacy through the creation of a welcoming, enduring community hub that reflects local identity, fosters connection and supports generations of players, members and supporters.

Henry J Lyons is the local design architect, with overall project management led by Cumming Group. Construction of the initial phase - including the new car park and all-weather pitch - is being delivered by Elliott Group, alongside a range of specialist consultants and local contractors. The wider professional team includes Punch Consulting Engineers, O’Connor Sutton Cronin (OCSC), Brady Shipman Martin, Michael Barrett Partnership, Michael Slattery & Associates, Brock McClure and Wave Dynamics.

Maryse and Travis Knight commented on the project's progress. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

“Reaching this stage and seeing works begin on the ground is incredibly meaningful for our family. The care, thought and dedication shown by everyone involved – particularly the design team at Olson Kundig – has been a source of great comfort and pride. It affirms that this redevelopment is the right way to honour Eoin and Dylan, delivering new club facilities that are rooted in the community that meant so much to them,” they said.

Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, Principal/Owner & Founder at Olson Kundig, spoke about what it means to work on the development. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

“Portlaoise GAA represents a sporting and cultural institution where identity and community are inseparable, and that sense of shared purpose and collective spirit has been a defining theme in our design approach. It’s an honour to work alongside the club, the Fitzpatrick and Knight families, and the wider project team to help shape new spaces that will bring people together and serve as a lasting tribute to Eoin and Dylan,” he said.

Portlaoise GAA's Chairperson Eamon Fennelly spoke on behalf of the club. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

“The start of construction marks a proud day for Portlaoise GAA and we are deeply grateful to Maryse and Travis. This project is about remembering Eoin and Dylan by shaping a strong future for our club and community through facilities that will benefit players and members for generations. The work now underway is a testament to the commitment of so many, and we look forward to the next phases as we move towards the new clubhouse in 2027,” he said.

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Donal Buckley, Director, Cumming Group UK & Europe, also highlighted the project's importance.

“This project carries deep meaning, reflecting the enduring values of family, community & the GAA. Our team shares a strong connection to these values, and we are proud to see them being carefully respected and enhanced through a design and delivery approach led by world-class professionals. We are honoured to be entrusted with this project and our focus is on delivering it in line with its vision and programme, for the benefit of Portlaoise GAA, the Fitzpatrick and Knight families, and the wider community,” he said.

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The overall redevelopment remains on track for completion in summer 2027.