Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, has undergone significant changes in recent years as developers have proposed numerous high-rise buildings to accommodate the ever-growing population. However, many architects, urban planners, and residents argue that the future of Dublin lies not in towering glass structures but in promoting sustainable, livable, and socially inclusive urban environments. In this article, we will explore why some experts believe that Dublin does not need 20 or 30-story towers to thrive and what alternative approaches can pave the way for a better future for the city.
John Bruder, a property investment manager, believes that the Frascati shopping centre and its 45 apartments in Blackrock, south Dublin, managed by his company Gresham House, are a model for modern city living. Bruder thinks that the way that Invesco bought the Frascati from the Roche family in 2015 and realised that 75% of the site was being used for parking and that this represented a commercial opportunity shows a keen comprehension of densification of existing urban land. Bruder is getting impatient with the stalled planning application for phases two and three of the residential development which will add 120 apartments to the 45 already there. Despite having many examples of living over the shop until the 1980s especially in rural towns Hammerson, which co-owns Dundrum shopping centre, is only now submitting a planning proposal for up to 1,100 apartments.
As the city of Dublin continues to grow and evolve, it is important to consider the impact of development on its residents and its unique character. While high-rise buildings may offer a sleek and modern image, they may not be the best option for creating a livable, sustainable urban environment. Instead, a balance of traditional and innovative approaches can be key to ensuring that Dublin remains a vibrant and thriving city for generations to come. As the city prepares for the future, it will be up to civic leaders, developers, and citizens alike to shape its destiny and create a vision for Dublin that preserves its heritage while embracing innovative new ideas. Only by working together can we create a city that we can be proud to call home.
