Capital City. Symbolically the most important urban space in Dublin, it was widened in the 18th century and rebuilt after the destruction caused in the uprising of 1916 and the Civil War of 1922. O’Connell Street as a whole has existed in a constant state of making and remaking, and never quite fixed. The redevelopment of the Dublin Central site is another chapter in this story. Starting with a focus on adaptability and flexibility, the existing structure of the urban plots was analyzed in order to develop a strategy that respects history as well as being versatile in an uncertain future. Extensive research was carried out to deliver a building of low embodied carbon footprint, capable of being adapted for other uses in the future. Courtyards and light-well spaces become pockets of pleasure where workers enjoy proximity with nature, accessible directly from the offices, to be enjoyed throughout the working day. The O’Connell Street wall is built in solid stone, with a strong robust base at pavement level. A combination of brick and stone is used in all other facades...[+]