Glassnevin Dublin

Ballygall Road East, Glasnevin, Dublin stands as a successful example of the thoughtful refurbishment of legacy social housing stock, originally earmarked for demolition. Prior to intervention, the site had already been vacated in preparation for clearance. The development comprised five blocks, each containing sixteen two-storey apartments.

In the aftermath of the global financial crash of 2007, the project was comprehensively re-evaluated. Rather than proceeding with full demolition, a revised strategy was adopted, centred on the complete refurbishment and modernisation of the existing structures. This involved the removal of the original concrete cantilevered walkway slabs, the external wrapping of all buildings with rigid insulation finished in a durable thin-coat silicone render system, and the installation of new steel walkways, bridges, and lifts. Additionally, two studio apartments were amalgamated to form generous 55m² one-bedroom, two-person units, better suited to contemporary housing needs.

The completed scheme revitalised the local community, delivering 40 refurbished units as part of Phase 1, followed by a further 14 new-build units delivered under Phase 2 for Fold Ireland. The project was subsequently entered into the 2017 CIH Awards, where it achieved significant recognition — securing both the Regeneration category award and the prestigious Overall Winner accolade.

Special acknowledgment is due to Tina Donahey of Fold Ireland, whose foresight and identification of a viable financial model enabled the project to move forward amidst a period of considerable economic uncertainty. Despite the challenges encountered, the successful delivery of the project and its positive impact on the community made the outcome all the more rewarding.