Dublin Street, Balbriggan

Paul Keogh Architects were appointed in June 2021 to design a new Creative Hub at Dublin Street, Balbriggan. Comprising an existing 19th-century protected structure and adjoining modern retail unit, the project is part of a rejuvenation scheme for Balbriggan through the redevelopment of underutilized / vacant buildings and sites in the town. PKA are also undertaking the regeneration project for Quay Street & Environs in the town.

No.2 Dublin Street is identified as a protected structure within the site, and the Victorian-era townhouse will be restored to its original condition and configuration, conserving the external envelope. This building will house artists’ studios, while a new structure in place of the former retail unit will contain the Creative Hub and workshop spaces.

The studios are intended to provide an environment in which to meet, work and foster exchange between artists, creatives and entrepreneurs. The Creative Hub is envisaged as a design space and training hub aimed at fostering innovation and creation within the community, while providing digital education and stimulating economic activity.

A curated gallery space located to the rear of the site will be connected to the Creative Hub and workspaces, with provisions for office and classroom facilities, audio-visual room, kitchen, and meeting rooms proposed for the development.

The new structure wraps around the rear of the site providing the Gallery / Project space, creating an external courtyard. A combination of a glazed corridor and timber colonnade to the courtyard allows for visual connections between the Studios, Creative Hub, and proposed gallery space.

The form and material of the new structure seeks to complement the character of the existing building and sit sympathetically within the context of Dublin Street, with zinc pitched roofs and grey/buff brickwork externally to the new construction.

Client: Fingal County Council

Value: N/A
Size: 570 sq.m.

Reference: Mr. Pat Boyle
Design: 2021 (ongoing)
Completion: 2025