Art Deco architecture represents an important phase in the development of the Irish Free State, when Dublin City Council architects engaged with emerging international design movements, including through participation in planning congresses abroad. As a result, a diverse range of buildings were constructed during this period, influenced by European and international trends: the former Gas Building (showing Parisian influences), the former DIT building on Cathal Brugha Street (Amsterdamer style), the Department of Industry and Commerce with Gabriel Hayes’ sculptural work (expressionist), the former Archer Garage and Dublin Airport terminal (international style), and several significant social housing schemes based on the designs of Georges Simms (Amsterdamer style). Residential examples include Geragh in Sandycove, stretches of the Howth Road, and cul-de-sac developments such as Vergemount Park. Importantly, these buildings were primarily designed by Irish architects, contributing to a distinct national expression of the style.
The term “Art Deco”, formalised at a Paris exhibition in the 1960s, encompasses a broad family of architectural movements including Amsterdamer, stripped neoclassical, Jugendstil, cubism, international style, modernism, streamline, and Bauhaus. Ireland’s contribution to this global heritage reflects influences from the Celtic Revival and early Free State identity. Art Deco Dublin is affiliated with ICADS, the international organisation dedicated to Art Deco conservation.
In this context, Vergemount Park is a significant and cohesive example of early 20th-century domestic Art Deco design. Its architectural integrity and uniform streetscape character contribute meaningfully to the heritage of the area. For this reason, the proposed alterations at 4 Vergemount Park raise serious concerns. The design changes outlined in the No 4 Vergemount Park development application appear likely to disrupt the architectural rhythm, proportions, and stylistic coherence of the street. The proposals depart from the established Art Deco typology and would materially affect the legibility of the original design intent.
It is unclear, why a development of this nature would proceed without reference to conservation guidance or apparent consultation with the Dublin City Council Conservation Section, given the established architectural character of the street. Alterations of this scale risk diminishing the historic and architectural value of the wider setting.
My team at Art Deco Dublin, together with Art Deco specialists and volunteers, intends to support efforts to pursue Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) designation for Vergemount Park. We also recognise the work undertaken by Kevin and his local team, as well as by the DCC Conservation Team and the Irish Georgian Society, to protect this architecturally significant streetscape.
