Lanyon behind historic buildings
Sir Charles Lanyon (1813 –1889) was behind a range of building projects across the province, from the main building at Queen’s University Belfast to the Antrim Coast Road.
Locally, he was involved with the design of both Gill’s and Sheils’ Almshouses.
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Hide AdSheils’ Almshouses were built in 1868 as a charity endeavour, aiming to provide rent-free housing.
The event, taking place last Tuesday, was organised by the Charles Sheils Community and Beth Frazer, community engagement co-ordinator from Built Heritage – A Sense of Place.
During the session, pupils from Downshire School demonstrated their own architectural drawing skills, handing over their interpretation of Lanyon architecture with paintings of the Sheils Houses to residents. Architecture student Rosie Hickey also gave a talk on Lanyon.
Known as a Renaissance Man because of his many talents, the widely travelled Lanyon finally settled in County Antrim.
Among his many accomplishments was Glendun viaduct, built when he was only 24 years old.