Urban design framework and planning scheme
Urban Initiatives prepared urban design frameworks for both the Grand Canal and Custom House Docks. This formed the basis for planning schemes and area action plans that laid the foundations for a transformation of Dublin’s Docklands, from a post-industrial wasteland to a vibrant economic driver and a focus of public life for both Dubliners and visitors to the city.
Our plans deliver a new waterfront to either side of the River Liffey together with more intimate spaces around the Grand Canal Dock with Daniel Libeskind’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre anchoring the space at its western end. A Calatrava bridge connects Grand Canal Docks to the south of the river, with the Custom House Docks and Kevin Roche’s Conference Centre to the north.
Development was guided by architectural and public realm Design Codes. Urban Initiatives provided regular reviews of emerging proposals, critiquing development form, massing, densities and mix of uses.
The area has attracted a concentration of Tech Companies with Google, Facebook, Amazon, Dropbox and LinkedIn, alongside numerous start-ups, locating their European headquarters within the area, transforming Dublin’s reputation and attracting talent from across the world to work in the city.
Flagship projects completed
6 million square feet of residential and commercial floorspace completed
Numerous architectural and property awards
O’Connor Sutton Cronin • Urban Projects • Hamilton Osborne King
