New lease of life for Thomas Street and Cornmarket

No10-13 Cornmarket. Credit: Amy Connaughton

Dublin City Council is giving the Liberties a new lease of life as a major programme of investment is underway to improve the quality of streets and public spaces in the area.

As part of the ongoing Liberties Greening Strategy, the Council are setting out a series of projects to renew historic streetscapes, develop new public spaces, increase tree cover and provide new parks.

One space currently being redeveloped is No. 61-63 Thomas Street. The old building is set to be redeveloped into a multipurpose building, which will include a large office space and a stylish new restaurant.

The building is being developed as part of the Liberties Business Area Improvement Initiative.

The current building is in poor condition but still has a lot of its original heritage features, including a vaulted cellar and timber frames dating back as early as the 17th century. These features will reportedly be restored as part of the development.

The space is being designed by Lawrence and Long Architects and is in the works at the moment. The development is being overseen by high-end property developer Oakmount, who are behind the redevelopment of the contemporary Dean Hotel and the re-opening of Stella cinema in Rathmines.

Another building also being redeveloped is No. 10-13 Cornmarket at the end of Thomas Street.

HSE Estates have been refurbishing the building over the last two years with the intention of locating the HSE Communications Office in the premises. The building is being designed by Van Dijk Architects.

According to Van Djiik Architects, their work on the building will consist of restoration, refurbishment and fit-out works to include alterations to the internal plan of all floors and to accommodate a contemporary office space. There will also be full restoration works to the existing windows and façade.