University of Limerick Student Centre

The new Student Centre at the University of Limerick is a vibrant hub designed to serve the campus community. Theatreplan provided theatre planning and technical consultancy for the auditorium and media suite. Operated by the Students’ Union, the building was designed with flexibility and ease of use as a priority, ensuring it meets the varied needs of the students.

The 173-seat auditorium, which is an important part of the complex, is a truly multipurpose space, capable of hosting entertainment, meetings, sports and university societies. Theatreplan worked closely with Cotter & Naessens Architects from the early stages to design a venue that adapts seamlessly to a wide range of uses.

The venue features a retractable seating unit and a fixed balcony, with interior finishes of concrete and oak complemented by windows for natural daylight. When the blackout blinds are drawn, the venue transforms into a performance-ready space equipped with motorised lighting trusses, an LED production lighting system and an installed loudspeaker system, allowing for quick and efficient set-up. Back of house facilities include dressing rooms and a green room, supporting performance and productive teams.

The media suite, which looks over the large atrium space in the Student Centre, operates as the campus radio and TV station. Facilities for live streaming and location media capture have also been included. A small green screen studio is part of the media suite, and the auditorium could also be used as a studio if a larger facility is required.

Theatreplan have been on site to participate in user orientation for the technical and venue systems. A large stakeholder group, including students and staff, took part. Everyone was keen to learn more about the facility and its capabilities and make plans for future shows and activities. The student centre officially opened in October 2025, and the students have immediately started to make use of their new facilities.

Ireland's Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD said: "The new Student Centre at the University of Limerick is a great example of what can be achieved when students lead with vision and purpose. It's a thoughtful investment in student life, shaped by the voices and values of the UL community. Congratulations to everyone who played a part in bringing this project to life, it will make a real difference for students today and in the years ahead."