McCann FitzGerald Headquarters
2003 - 2006
Riverside One, Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin 1
Client
McCann FitzGerald Solicitors
Area
11711 sq.m
Awards
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland / Selected for Exhibition
2007
Architectural Association of Ireland (AAI) / Excellence in Architectural Design
2007
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The Challenge
One of Ireland’s leading law firms, McCann FitzGerald Solicitors have a commitment to providing the highest quality legal services both in Ireland and abroad. Scott Tallon Walker Architects were chosen, following a limited design competition, to create a new Headquarters Office building, providing the best possible working environment capable of responding to the immediate and future needs of a dynamic corporate legal practice.
The Building
The site is located on a high profile site along the banks of the River Liffey. The new Calatrava designed Samuel Beckett Bridge, which spans the river immediately to the west, is a major new vehicular access route from the north to the south of Dublin City. The view from the bridge approaching the site generates a strong diagonal NW/SE axis. This axis is emphasized in the building design by locating the double-height set-back entrance on the north-western corner.. Recognizing the importance of natural light and the working environment, the building incorporates a centrally placed circular atrium, which rises through the building and extends as a glazed cylinder to the skyline. The cylinder’s tilted glass roof sloping towards the north-west again emphasizes the diagonal axial concept, and maximizes the provision of glare-free light within the building. On entering the building, the visitor’s view is directed on the diagonal from the double-height reception area to the base of the cylindrical atrium and the staff restaurant and training rooms beyond. The atrium is landscaped with bamboo in raised planters providing a delightfully relaxed and informal meeting space.
The Details
The highly glazed twin-wall façade allows maximum natural light into the generous work areas. This ‘smart –skin’ responds automatically to changes in imposed thermal loads providing thermal protection and solar control, helping the building cope with Ireland’s ever changing weather and light conditions. This façade automation, together with the building’s sophisticated mechanical systems, reduces raw energy demand and creates a consistently comfortable and regulated working environment ensuring that the building is a show case for sustainable design in Ireland.