Structural Innovation at Central Plaza

DBFL’s Fergal English describes the solutions to the unique and complex challenges on Central Plaza, Dame Street. This landmark project, which is dramatic both inside and out, commands the skyline in Dublin city centre. The redevelopment involves significant reconfiguring of the structural cores which, given the hanging nature of the structure at One Central Plaza, remained fully loaded from the top during the works.

The original roof of the building was given over in its entirety to plant, which has now been concealed within the basement and in strategic locations at high level that are obscured from view. Innovative structural solutions were required to affect this change without compromising the architectural vision. Along with these key structural challenges, DBFL’s team has also undertaken the engineering design works for the repurposing of the previously existing two storey basement car park and the main plaza area which have been opened up to house exciting new retail, leisure and dining spaces.

Plant risers, lift shafts, stairs and staff facilities have been modified to deliver the needs of the modern office whilst not extending these spaces outside of the confines of the existing cores. Additional lifts to the office floors and the rooftop hospitality spaces have been accommodated.  The opening up of the roof area to deliver a glass-topped hospitality space affording panoramic views over the city not only necessitated the addition of mezzanine floors and walkways but re-engineering of the entire servicing strategy.

The adjoining annex and commercial buildings have been structurally modified and refurbished to deliver first class modern retail, restaurant and office accommodation at 2 Central Plaza. Significant structural modifications and refurbishment were also undertaken on office and retail space at 6/8 College Green which also forms part of Central Plaza.

Over the last 4 years DBFL’s engineering team has provided industry leading engineering solutions for our client Hines as part of an experienced and dedicated design team focused on delivering this world class city centre mixed used development.

Thanks to Hines, Central Plaza Vici Consulting (Project Management), Henry J Lyons Architects, Mulcahy McDonagh & Partners, Stewart Construction, Michael Slattery Associates, JV Tierney & Co