Farren Architects

30/04/2026

Behind the Designs

Ruth McNickle
Architect

Ruth joined the practice bringing experience from a number of design-led studios, including O’Donnell + Tuomey and Adjaye Associates, where she contributed to a range of projects across several continents, working across different scales and contexts.

This experience, together with her studies at the University of Edinburgh, informs Ruth’s strong focus on design quality, with each project approached in a thoughtful and well-considered way.

27/04/2026

Behind the Designs

Nigel Murray
Architect

Nigel joined the practice following over 20 years’ experience in architecture, with work across Belfast, Glasgow and Dublin. He has been involved in a wide range of projects and sectors, including several award-winning schemes, and has contributed to teaching and design critique at a number of universities.

His work focuses on design quality, informed by a close understanding of client brief, budget and context, with careful attention to how form and material respond to their surroundings and how spaces are used day to day.

20/04/2026

Behind the Designs

Kate Doherty
Architect

Kate joined the practice following ten years with Hall McKnight in Belfast. She studied at Queens University Belfast and the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow and brings a strong focus on careful, considered design.

Kate’s work begins with a close understanding of the site, with each project developed in response to its setting, views, context and how it will be used.

13/04/2026

River House.

Set within a mature riverside site, the house sits among the trees.

It opens towards the water through long views and sheltered terraces, remaining private within the landscape.

https://www.farrenarchitects.com/posts/river-house

06/04/2026

River House.

A home along the riverbank.

https://www.farrenarchitects.com/posts/river-house

30/03/2026

Last week marked the beginning on site for the Ardoyne Youth Enterprise Centre on Crumlin Road, Belfast, with a strong turnout to mark the occasion.

The event was attended by the First Minister, Deputy First Minister and Lord Mayor of Belfast, alongside representatives from Youth Enterprise, City Council , and the wider project team.

Delivered in collaboration with Belfast City Council and Ardoyne Youth Enterprise, the project will create a new community youth hub at a prominent inner-city location.

The design has been developed collaboratively, building on initial proposals by Hackett Architects and shaped through engagement with all stakeholders. It brings together community spaces for recreation, learning and support, including flexible youth areas, counselling rooms, offices, a roof terrace and an external courtyard. A modern, welcoming building designed to support young people and the wider community.

-executive Ardoyne Youth Enterprise

https://www.farrenarchitects.com/posts/ardoyne-youth-enterprise-centre

26/03/2026