The KPMG Irish Independent Property Industry Excellence Awards took place at the Convention Centre, Dublin recently. Leading figures from across architecture, construction, planning, development, and real estate gathered to honour projects and people shaping Ireland’s future.
Jim Clery, Stephen Vernon and Carmel Logan.
The evening’s most prestigious accolade, the Lifetime Achievement Property Excellence Award, was presented to Stephen Vernon, one of Ireland’s most influential property figures, whose career has been defined by vision, timing, and leadership. His mastery of the property cycle has been evident throughout a distinguished career that includes the landmark development and sale of Blanchardstown Shopping Centre.
Renowned for blending deep real estate expertise with sharp financial acumen, Vernon has built loyal teams and enduring partnerships across the industry. Last night’s award recognises not only his exceptional achievements, but also the indelible impact he has made on the Irish and international property landscape.
Carmel Logan, partner, head of real estate at KPMG Ireland, said: “Stephen Vernon’s career embodies the qualities that define every winner we celebrate tonight. Determination, focus, and a vision for what’s possible. From transforming Ireland’s landscapes to delivering world-class projects and inclusive, sustainable communities, these winners exemplify the drive and leadership that continue to shape the future of our property industry.”
Now in its 10th year, the awards continue to be the ‘Oscars of the Property Industry’, endorsed by Ireland’s leading professional institutes and representative bodies. The 2025 winners demonstrate the extraordinary range of talent and innovation driving progress across the broad property industry.
Construction award winner Bennett Construction.
Placemaking & Planning Award: Cairn – Seven Mills, Parkleigh, Cooper Square, and Lockhouse Way.
Housing Award: The Iveagh Trust – Stonemount Park.
2025 Award Winners
Architecture Award: Reddy A+U (Architect) & HOK (Design Architect) – Bon Secours Hospital, Limerick
A biophilic, patient-centred design that enhances healing and sustainability, setting a new benchmark in healthcare architecture.
Construction Project Award: Bennett Construction Ltd – RCSI Project Connect
A seven-storey education and research facility integrating modern design with protected structures to deliver construction excellence.
Developer Award: Cairn
Redefining Irish homebuilding through sustainability, innovation, and community. With 10,000 homes completed, Cairn drives quality and social impact nationwide.
Housing Award: The Iveagh Trust – Stonemount Park
An inclusive, sustainable housing model blending design, management, and resident engagement for long-term community wellbeing.
Placemaking & Planning Award: Cairn – Seven Mills, Parkleigh, Cooper Square, and Lockhouse Way
A flagship plan-led scheme delivering 1,900 homes, public realm, and active travel networks, an exemplar of sustainable urban design.
Small Agency Award: Owen Reilly
An independent Dublin agency delivering premium results through innovation, sustainability, and a client-first service approach.
PropTech Award: Land Development Agency – Register of Relevant Public Lands
A national digital map identifying all public land, supporting transparency, planning, and optimal land use.
Property Fund Manager Award: Irish Life Investment Managers
Managing Ireland’s largest mixed-use institutional portfolio with ESG principles at its core to deliver enduring value.
Rising Star Award: Kevin Loftus – ACT (Accelerating Change Together)
A young leader driving Ireland’s green transition through regenerative design and circular construction innovation.
Letting Transaction of the Year: Cushman & Wakefield and Marlet - College Square
Recognised for excellence in leasing and client delivery, setting new standards in commercial real estate transactions.
Lifetime Achievement Property Excellence Award – Stephen Vernon
Honoured for a lifetime of transformative impact, vision, and leadership in the Irish and UK property markets.