Client: Hines
DBFL provided Civil and Structural engineering services on this landmark commercial development.
Two Grand Parade is a 9,600 sqm commercial development for Hines which includes six storeys of new prime office space over a single level basement. The new steel framed building is linked via a glass atrium to the iconic 8- storey former headquarters of PJ Carrolls overlooking the Charlemont Luas Stop and the Grand Canal in Dublin.
This 60-year-old protected structure was also fully refurbished up to modern office standards and structural works included specialist input to enhance the fire rating and durability of the concrete to extend the buildings design life. Read our in-depth Case Study
Allowance was made for the construction of a future Metro station beneath the building which involved incorporating a 2.4m deep reinforced concrete slab as part of the foundation structure spanning 22m between piled walls extending 30m into the bedrock. The metro station will be constructed by excavating the ground beneath this slab between the piled walls at a future date while the spanning slab supports the 6-storey building overhead.
The LUAS tram line and Charlemont LUAS stop are on a 6m high elevated embankment parallel to the site boundary. The new basement structure was built alongside this embankment requiring an intricate arrangement of secant piled walls and ground anchors to facilitate construction. Strict monitoring procedures were put in place to measure the performance of the embankment during the works while the LUAS system remained live throughout the construction phase.
The project achieved LEED Platinum certification by incorporating energy-efficient systems such as micro-combined heat and power (Micro-CHP) units. These systems supply renewable energy to the workspace, significantly reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional energy sources. Green roofs were utilised as a SUDS measure to control rainwater flows into the public system in the event of storms.
The development respects and enhances the cultural landscape by carefully integrating historical elements. The original 1960s headquarters was restored and upgraded, preserving its architectural significance while introducing modern amenities.
Two Grand Parade exemplifies how urban infrastructure projects can be designed to improve sustainability, foster community engagement, and respect the environment. By blending innovative design with heritage preservation, the development provides long-term benefits for public health, mobility, and the urban experience.
Project Director
