College Square [Phase 01 + 2]
Sited in a historically and culturally significant context, the location provides a backdrop of identity and character to this predominantly commercial, mixed-use development.
College Square is situated in Dublin City just north of Trinity College. The site, previously neglected and unused for a generation, commands the edge of three streetscapes adjacent to one of Dublin’s prominent interchanges. Previous buildings of bleak concrete sat defensively, offering little back to the city and its users. College Square redefines the urban block with active frontages to the city.
In plan, the building pulls back from Trinity College to create a generous street corner. The double height south facing portico becomes a public veranda, an opportunity for street theatre and performance.
From here, a diagonal shortcut opens the site and links College Green to the River Liffey. Animated by a reflective soffit, the route generates a sequence of external open spaces, punctuated with artwork acknowledging the sites history.
The new covered passage blurs interior and exterior space, opening onto double-height entrance lobbies and a landscaped plaza at the centre of the site
The thoughtful integration of public spaces, community functions, and artwork, enhances the building's interaction with the city, making it a model of how architecture can enrich urban life.
The façade design is informed by an understanding of the historical context. The double height order and varying facade depths strengthen the connection to its surroundings. Sunlight, time and season modify the appearance of the unique terracotta texture. Its colours echoing the historic context, the red sandstone of the former Scottish Widows Building, the Ochre/Mustard tones of D’Olier Chambers and the Blue-Black carved grey granite of Pearse Street Garda Station and Trinity College. The palette of materials and sophisticated detailing creates a bold aesthetic that enhances Dublin’s skyline while respecting the surrounding architectural heritage.
