Dorset Street Redevelopment

The scheme involves a comprehensive redevelopment of the urban block bounded by Dorset Street, Upper Dominick Street and St Mary’s Place, in Dublin 1. The existing 1.2 ha site accommodates 113 homes within four 5-storey flat blocks, and a playschool (now closed) which form Dorset Street & Mary’s Place social housing scheme. Designed in association with Levitt Bernstein Associates, we propose an inclusive, sustainable urban environment.

Architecture

The new development ranges from three to seven storeys, replacing the existing five storey blocks, responding to the scale and mass of adjacent buildings. Non-residential accommodation is located at the ground floor fronting onto Dorset Street, a major thoroughfare in the city, while the interior of the development has a more residential character. The historic Dorset Street Fire Station building, with its recently completed facade renovation, is to remain and is celebrated as a focal point in the complex.

The proposed development comprises of:

• Demolition of the existing buildings.
• Provision of 163 affordable homes; within 4 blocks and 1 terrace, ranging from 3-7 storeys (including 7 houses, 11 duplexes & 145 apartments).
• Provision of a boxing club, a multi-use childcare facility, a commercial space & a café.
• Associated car and cycle parking; public and private open spaces; ancillary structures; and all other necessary enabling works, roads and services.

Urban Design

The new layout has been designed to provide high quality public spaces with new streets connecting the development to the surrounding neighbourhood. These landscaped streets prioritise the pedestrian and, along with play spaces, seating areas and entrances at the ground floor, will create a neighbourhood feel. High quality open areas are also planned within sheltered courtyards for the amenity of residents.

The Project gained planning approval in Q1 2022, with detailed design ongoing.