The Sunday Times

Unlike writers and musicians, Ireland’s architects rarely become household names. Perhaps only three are well known among the general public — James Gandon (1743-1823), Michael Scott (1905-1989) and Sam Stephenson, who died suddenly ten days ago at the age of 72. Each was a charismatic, colourful character who led an eventful life. Each attracted controversy and divided public opinion. They may not always have been on the side of the angels, but in the end that would not be held against them. Each was admired by their colleagues, despite the jealousies common among architects. Gandon’s reputation, based on the Custom House and Four Courts, is safe, as is Scott’s, thanks to Busaras and the award in 1975 of the RIBA Royal Gold Medal, then the world’s greatest architectural accolade. Sadly, however, Stephenson’s legacy is not as secure, partly because his career was so short — effectively over by the end of the 1970s, at an age when most architects are hitting their stride. Stephenson also became the lightning conductor in Ireland for popular discontent with the destruction of Georgian Dublin, and the modern architecture that replaced much of it. But his legacy is further complicated by much of his output being commercial buildings, such as offices and hotels, which are bound to be changed — perhaps replaced — in the short to medium term.