Jonny McKenna
Partner
Dublin Joined in 2006 BSc BArch MA (Urban Design) RIBA RIAI
Jonny is a partner, architect, and urban designer with extensive expertise in residential-led masterplanning and large-scale housing projects. Since joining Metropolitan Workshop in 2006, he has played a leading role in shaping complex masterplans and delivering high-quality residential developments, with a particular focus on achieving design excellence through cost-effective housing solutions.
He holds a degree in Architecture from University College Dublin and a master’s degree in Urban Design from the University of Westminster, graduating with distinction. An active contributor to the profession, he serves on the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Design Review Panel and the RIAI Urban Design Committee, as well as Dublin City Council’s Strategic Policy Committee for Planning and Urban Regeneration.
Jonny speaks frequently at conferences and seminars, championing architecture’s role in addressing contemporary urban challenges. He is a strong advocate for collective and participatory models of placemaking, believing that involving communities in shaping their environments produces higher quality, greater value, and proposals that better reflect local needs and aspirations—ultimately fostering lasting community resilience and empowerment.
He has led multi-disciplinary teams on significant projects including St Teresa’s Gardens (543 homes), Castlelands (815 homes), Mariavilla (Strategic Housing Development for 450 student rooms), and Stillorgan (SHD for 100 homes and 600 student rooms), alongside town renewal plans for Kildare, Newbridge, Leixlip, and Celbridge. He also led the design for Annesley Gardens, a new street in Ranelagh shortlisted for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award, and the Swindon Delivery Plan, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex urban regeneration challenges and deliver innovative, place-focused solutions.