Custom House Quay, Cork

Elevating Cork: Pioneering Tall Building Design and Urban Renewal

Masterplanning

Policy

Tall Building Guidance

Urban Initiatives collaborated with Tower Development Properties Ltd. to transform the historic Custom House site in Cork, Ireland, into a catalyst for urban regeneration. The proposed 140-metre, 34-storey building will become the tallest in the Republic of Ireland, serving as a focal point for Cork’s Docklands, sparking both economic and cultural revitalisation.

The Custom House site was identified by Urban Initiatives as a prime location for a metropolitan-scale tall building. Despite falling into disrepair, the site is strategically positioned at the intersection of the city centre’s emerging commercial quarter and Docklands regeneration area. On completion this project will provide an iconic landmark for Cork. To support the project’s vision, the team contributed to a detailed planning application, providing urban design and tall building statements.

In addition to identifying its location, the team contributed urban and architectural expertise towards the dynamic mixed-use design, which features a hotel, cafés, restaurants, and a distillery, creating a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

The project successfully received planning consent from Cork City Council, marking a pivotal step in the Dockland’s revitalisation. Once complete, the project will redefine Cork’s skyline, and stimulate further investment and development into the city’s emerging commercial quarter. This landmark project highlights Urban Initiatives’ expertise in combining innovative design with strategic urban planning, setting a new benchmark for Cork as a progressive, future-focused city.

CLIENT
Tower Holdings
LOCATION
Cork, Ireland
SERVICES
Masterplanning, Policy
DATES
2019 - 2020
PROJECT OUTCOMES

Planning permission for tallest building in Cork and the Republic of Ireland

COLLABORATORS

Gensler • Arup • JCA Architects • HJL Architects • MH Planning