Armadilla Wins ‘Retail and Leisure Project of the Year’ at Offsite Construction Awards for Knock Shrine Pods
We are thrilled to announce that Armadilla has been named the winner of the Retail and Leisure Project of the Year at the prestigious Offsite Construction Awards! This recognition comes in light of our recent work at Knock Shrine, a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site in County Mayo, Ireland, where we delivered nine of our iconic, sustainably designed pods to enhance visitor accommodation.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience at Knock Shrine
Knock Shrine, a site of religious and cultural significance, attracts 1.5 million visitors annually, many of whom are part of school groups and pilgrims looking for a spiritual retreat. The existing accommodation at the Shrine had become outdated, and when we learned about the project in 2022, we saw an opportunity to provide a modern, sustainable solution that would blend seamlessly into the serene environment.
In collaboration with John Conroy, the Shrine’s manager, Armadilla designed and delivered nine ensuite pods, offering accommodation for up to two people in each unit. Every pod features eco-friendly Accoya timber, recycled materials, and state-of-the-art energy-efficient systems, all aligned with Knock Shrine’s ethos of sustainability and tranquility.
A Perfect Example of Offsite Construction Excellence
The success of this project is a testament to the advantages of offsite construction, which was key to meeting the Shrine’s requirements of minimal disruption, speed of installation, and environmental sustainability. All nine pods were fully constructed at Armadilla’s factory in Scotland and delivered to Knock Shrine by road and sea. Once on site, they were installed in under a day, with all utilities connected, ensuring the accommodation was ready for immediate use.
One of the key advantages of the Armadilla pods is their flexibility. With integral steel frames, the pods do not require formal foundations, meaning they can be placed in otherwise challenging locations like sloped ground or under trees. Their unique, ecclesiastical-inspired design has already become a focal point at the Shrine, admired by visitors and staff alike.
Why Offsite Construction?
Offsite construction methods allowed Armadilla to deliver a solution that was cost-effective and sustainable, reducing the need for extensive groundwork and minimizing the environmental footprint. The process also ensured quality control, with every aspect of the pods — from the heating systems to the luxurious finishes — completed to the highest standard before arriving on site.
Knock Shrine’s decision to opt for offsite construction has proven to be a highly effective strategy, with the project completed on time, within budget, and without disruption to the Shrine’s daily operations.
Looking to the Future
Winning this award solidifies Armadilla’s position as a leader in offsite construction for leisure and retail projects. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Knock Shrine and look forward to further expanding our offering of sustainable, beautifully designed accommodation solutions in the future.
This award reflects the hard work and innovation of our entire team, and we are excited to continue delivering projects that enhance both visitor experience and environmental sustainability.
