Grafton Architects

Grafton Architects is a renowned architectural practice based in Dublin, Ireland, founded in 1978 by Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara. Over the years, the firm has steadily gained international acclaim for its thoughtful and context-sensitive designs, blending modernist pragmatism with a deep respect for local environments and traditions. Their architecture is defined by a strong focus on spatiality, materiality, and light, creating buildings that are striking yet harmonious with their surroundings.

One of their most iconic projects is the Universita Luigi Bocconi in Milan, completed in 2008. This building won several prestigious design awards, including the World Building of the Year Award, placing Grafton Architects firmly on the global architectural stage. The structure's bold use of stone, daylight, and its meticulously crafted series of volumes are signature elements of their design language.

As educators, Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara have also left an indelible mark on architectural education, having taught at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and the University of Cambridge.