Cathal joined Orms in 2023, bringing experience in residential and commercial architecture with a particular interest in sustainable design and adaptive reuse. Prior to Orms, he spent two years at Metropolitan Workshop’s Dublin and London offices, where he worked on government-led mixed-use housing developments, including the Donore Project (formerly St Teresa’s Gardens) and Clonburris SDZ, as well as private sector schemes through to planning stage.
What does ultrapractical mean to you? For me, being ultrapractical means finding simple, hands-on ways to solve problems that feel right for the place, while respecting its history and character. This shaped my thesis on reusing Irish vernacular farmyards, where I explored how everyday spaces can be given new life without losing what makes them special. I bring the same approach to my work at Orms, including the 75 London Wall retrofit, focusing on smarter ways to reuse what’s already there, reduce waste, and minimise environmental impact. I also help share these ideas by organising our weekly Masterclass sessions.