by ArchitectureWeek

In crafting a modern setting within a historic context, the Irish firm of Douglas Wallace Architects has struck a delicate balance between respectful homage to the past and a stylish adventure into the future. In the new Habitat store in Dublin, they have converted an 18th-century Bank of Ireland and a 1960s office building into a large retail establishment for the city center.

Working with concept architect Patrick Mellett of Paris, Douglas Wallace has transformed two adjacent buildings into offices and 22,000 square feet (2000 square meters) of retail space for the home furnishings franchise, one of the largest retail units to open in that part of Dublin in recent years.

Adrian Lambe, project director for Douglas Wallace, says: "Having the scope to work on such a large space within the confines of Dublin City Centre is a rare thing these days."

The architects were asked to develop two main entrances to the store. One of them is from the College Green area, Dublin's financial district. The other, off Suffolk Street, supports the redeveloped office spaces. A new modern frontage and entrance hall were incorporated along the Suffolk Street end to help reinvigorate the district's shopping appeal.   >>>

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The new Habitat Ireland store in Dublin by Douglas Wallace Architects. Photo: Maoro Davoli Historic bank transformed into modern retail. Photo: Maoro Davoli   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.