Olson Kundig is pleased to announce that construction has officially commenced on the Portlaoise Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) Sports Campus, led by design principals Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, and Steven Rainville, AIA, LEED AP.

The project reimagines the existing Rathleague grounds as a new hub for sport and community. The redevelopment is supported by Travis and Maryse Knight (née Fitzpatrick) in commemoration of Maryse’s beloved brother and nephew, Eoin and Dylan Fitzpatrick, who tragically lost their lives in a road traffic accident in Turkey in July 2023. Rooted in the agrarian language of the Irish Midlands, the design blends honest forms, local materials, and inclusive spaces to serve athletes, club members, and supporters for generations to come.

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

When complete, the project will deliver high-quality, modern facilities designed to support all levels of participation within the club. The enhanced amenities will serve club members, players and the wider Portlaoise community, providing inclusive facilities for young athletes beginning their sporting journeys, as well as lifelong supporters and volunteers who form the backbone of the club.

Olson Kundig (Lead Architect) seeks to honor Eoin and Dylan Fitzpatrick’s legacy through the creation of a welcoming, enduring community hub that reflects local identity, fosters connection, and supports generations of players, members and supporters.

Olson Kundig is partnering with Henry J Lyons as Local Design Architect, with 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 supporting the works. 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.

“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 honor 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.” —Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA

To learn more about Portlaoise GAA, visit their website.

Project Credits

Design Principals: Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, and Steven Rainville, AIA, LEED AP

Project Manager: Laura Sinn, AIA

Architectural Staff: Niamh Chambers, MRIAI, LEED GA, Evan Harlan, Joshua Levy, Conor Rochford, and Matthew Roberts