Two Grand Parade
The careful dialogue between old and new creates a distinctive presence that respects the original building's architectural legacy while meeting modern workplace demands.
Situated between Grand Parade and Dartmouth Road, the development encompasses the former Carroll's Tobacco Group Headquarters, a protected structure originally designed in the 1960s and listed in the Dublin City Council Register of Protected Structures.
The architectural approach delivers a cohesive development that enables the original building to function as a modern workplace while respectfully acknowledging its heritage through thoughtful material references and modular elements in the new extension. The horizontal emphasis of the existing protected structure creates a compelling counterpoint to the stepped form of the new building extension. This design dialogue is evident through consistent elements: expansive ribbon windows, curved brick volumes, bronze fins, generous terraces, and an extended landscaped plaza at street level.
The restored entrance plaza with its reflective water feature creates a contemplative space that connects the building to the wider urban fabric.
Critical to the project's success was the meticulous execution of complex façade typologies and the careful refurbishment of the existing structure. The public realm interventions—particularly the restored entrance plaza with its reflective water feature—create a distinctive environment that enhances the community experience.
The development's scale and massing ensure the new structure integrates harmoniously with the protected building. The composition responds sensitively to its urban context, providing six storeys of office accommodation with the upper floors set back to reduce visual impact.
Unlike neighbouring developments, the ground floor entrance plaza offers remarkable permeability and openness, encouraging interaction with the public realm through meticulous detailing and substantial planting.
This thoughtfully considered development successfully enhances the existing protected structure while meeting contemporary requirements. As an exemplar of sustainable design, it achieves LEED Gold certification and a BER A3 energy rating, while the existing building fabric has been upgraded to improve thermal performance and energy efficiency, reinforcing the original design intent.
