Now that Cork's architectural face is changing so rapidly, next weekend's conference at Fota House offers a chance to revisit some aspects of the city's built heritage.

Nineteenth Century Architecture and Gardens begins with a reception at the AIB branch at 66 South Mall, in itself an example of some of the best work of the Hill family of architects. Tracing this firm from its roots gives UCC's Dr Dagmar O Riain-Raedel an opportunity to discuss some of Cork's finest buildings, a continuing evidence of the legacy of those years in which Dean and Woodward, Atkins, Pain and Benson were among the leading lights.

An exhibition of plans, drawings, letter-books and buildings is the centrepiece of the conference, which includes speakers such as Frank Keohane of Dublin, Michael Starrett of the Heritage Council, John Cahill and Cormac Foley from the OPW, with gardeners Finola Reid and Angela Jupe and historian Tom Dunne. Dr Alicia St Leger will speak on the big house in Ireland, and a gardening workshop by Charlie Wilkins will follow a tour of Fota's renowned arboretum and gardens. Those attending will see the nearly-completed installation at the Libeskind Pavilion; Daniel Libeskind will visit on May 5th and it will be open from May 6th until December.

Where's Me Culture? got in on the architectural act by demanding that the competition for a renewal design for Kyrl's Quay be judged for social and cultural, as well as commercial, values. Fat chance, on the evidence of recent buildings - of which Where's Me Culture? seems to approve. The competition criteria are laid down by the city council, to whom Mick Hannigan, on behalf of Where's Me Culture? addresses his demands.