Rooted in the rich Irish cultural heritage and ecological fabric of Ireland’s islands, “An Bothán Cladach” harnesses local materials, promoting resilience and sustainability of our coastal communities.

“An Bothán Cladach” aims to echo Irish resourcefulness in craft practice and placemaking, emphasising the use of circular, natural materials that resonate with the islanders’ context and identity. The structure acts as a testament to the potential born of scarcity and focuses on re-use first in construction.

Constructed from seaweed, reclaimed fishing nets and timber, the shelter is designed to bolster coastal community self-sufficiency, engineered for straightforward assembly and versatile adaptation to diverse conditions. It serves as an exemplar of the utilisation of local circular materials while encouraging meaningful discourse on stewardship and cultural preservation.

Launch performance by DJ Shampain, with presentation by RAT Office founders Genevieve & Luca.

Project Credits:
Design: RAT Office, Genevieve O’Sullivan, Luca Puzzoni
Build: RAT Office, Common Knowledge
Materials: Pure Ocean Algae, Cavanagh Nets
Photography: Paolo Rizzi

With thanks to Arts Officer Ruth Mulhern at Galway City Council

An Bothán Cladach will be situated on the middle pier of Claddagh Quay, directly across from the city’s iconic Spanish Arch in the heart of Galway City, for the duration of the festival. Claddagh Quay is just minutes from the centre of Galway city, where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay and flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Formerly a fishing village, it is one of the oldest areas of Galway city.