Judging Panel

An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, representing the architecture discipline, will determine the winners of the Building and Architect of the Year Awards.​

We understand the importance of a fair and objective judging process. That's why we assemble a prestigious panel of industry leaders, renowned for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise in the architecture industry.

Our selection process is meticulous. Judges are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and declare any potential conflicts of interest. Entries with conflicts are reassigned, ensuring complete impartiality.

This unwavering commitment to integrity is the foundation of our awards programme. Become a part of recognising industry excellence. If you're interested in joining the judging panel, email your details to judges@businessriver.com.

2026 Judging Panel

Britt Berentzen (Judging Coordinator)

Programme Director, Interior Architecture & Design, Griffith College Dublin

Britt is a Programme Director for the Architecture & Design programmes in the Design Faculty of Griffith College Dublin. VIEW MORE

Stephen Carr

Director, Stephen Carr Architects, Stephen Carr Architects

Stephen Carr is the founder and Director of Stephen Carr Architect. He has been a long-standing established Architect in Wexford for over thirty years and in this time, he has designed a diverse range of projects across a variety of sectors. VIEW MORE

Michael Frain

Co-Owner / Director, Bright Design Architect

Co-Owner / Director of Bright Design Architect since 2014 which specialize in residential projects throughout the country. VIEW MORE

Mike Haslam

Director, Haslam & Co Architects

Mike is director at Haslam & Co Architects and formerly co-director at Solearth Architecture, with projects such as the award-winning Airfield Estate, the Daintree Building and Grow HQ. He is also a lecturer and studio leader at SABE, TU Dublin and is a a committed exponent of sustainable design. VIEW MORE

Brian Jennings MRIAI MIDI

MD, award winning Registered Architect @ Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), Designer, Assigned Certifier, Guest Lecturer, JENNINGS \ DESIGN STUDIO Architects

Jennings Design Studio, led by architect Brian, specialises in commercial interiors. RIAI award winners, and twice named Architecture Practice of the Year, they offer comprehensive design, architecture, and project management services for Office, Retail, Hospitality, and Healthcare sectors. VIEW MORE

Derry Kearney

Partner, Cundall

Derry is a Partner at Cundall and Managing Director for Ireland where he is responsible for the successful leadership and management of the Irish business. He sits on the UK&I Regional Management Board for Cundall which has an oversight of nine offices and 500+ staff. VIEW MORE

Aleksandar Kostić

Lecturer/Architect, South East Technological University

Dr Aleksandar Kostić is an award-winning architect and educator. Previously the Head of Architecture at WIT, he is now the Head of the Architecture Research Group (aRCH) at the South East Technological University (SETU) in Waterford. He holds a doctorate in design theory (UCD). VIEW MORE

johann muldoon

Managing director, MANOR ARCHITECTS

Johann Muldoon is the most awarded female on the globe. She is Managing Director of Manor Architects, an RIBA Specialist Conservation Architect and MBE recipient, a multiple business owner, lecturer, TedX speaker, author and mother of 3. VIEW MORE

Martina Murphy

Senior Lecturer, Ulster University

Dr. Martina Murphy is a Senior Academic and Architecture Leader at Ulster University. She is a Chartered Architect with experience working in the UK and Far East. She has an internationally recognised research profile, advancing architectural practice through academia and global partnerships. VIEW MORE

Emer O'Sullivan

Director, Hussey Architects

Emer is a Director with Hussey Architects specialising in healthcare and hotel design, with more than 20 years experience. She leads the firm in the use of BIM led technologies and was Project Director on The Hendrick, Smithfield and The Dublin One Hotel, Dorset Street. VIEW MORE

Maeve Staunton

Director, Staunton Henderson Architects

Maeve Staunton, awarded Thought Leader in Architecture (2019), is the founding director of Staunton Henderson Architecture. A graduate of the Architectural Association, she has worked with Sir Richard Rogers & deBM. Her firm, SHA, operational for six years, specialises in high-quality residential. VIEW MORE