It’s almost time for Open House Dublin (OHD), a great opportunity for the citizens of Dublin to explore the city and gain access to some of the city’s coolest buildings, many of which are not usually accessible to the public.
Ahead of this year’s OHD we’ve teamed up with our pals the Irish Architecture Foundation, who are busy putting the final touches to the weekend. They have invited some of Dublin’s creative souls to select their top five buildings or events using the ‘my list’ option on the Open House website.
First in the series is Emma Clarke of Dublin Ghost Signs, who has put together her five highlights from the Open House Dublin 2018 programme.
1. The Gates, Ponds and History of the Phoenix Park
The Gates, Ponds and History of the Phoenix Park is a BYOB (bring your own bike) tour of the Park’s hidden treasures. I did the tour last year and the very knowledgeable guide took us parts of the Phoenix Park I had never been to before.
2. The Old Terminal Building at Dublin Airport
The Old Terminal Building at Dublin Airport offers a trip back in time to the early days of aviation. The terminal officially opened in 1940 and operated until Terminal 1 opened in 1972. Only lucky lottery winners will get a chance to visit the terminal during Open House weekend.
3. 10 Mill Street in Dublin 8
10 Mill Street in Dublin 8 recently underwent major conservation to restore many of the building’s original 18th century features. It’s currently in use as offices so Open House Dublin provides a rare opportunity for the public to visit.
4. Chocolate Factory Creative Community Dublin
This building was the site of the Williams & Woods sweet factory for over 100 years and it still boasts an impressive painted ghost sign from that time. The building is now home to a creative community hub.
5. Croke Villas Flats
Open House weekend will probably be the last opportunity to visit the Croke Villas Flats as the last remaining block is due to be demolished early in 2019.
Words: Emma Clarke Dublin Ghost Signs
Dublin Ghost Signs is an ever-growing collection of Dublin’s old and fading signs and provides a window into the city’s past – its shops, businesses and advertising. Ghost signs are the old, often hand-painted signs of advertising and businesses that have long since closed their doors. In Dublin, these signs are everywhere – on walls, above buildings and on tiled mosaic doorsteps.
Open House Dublin Weekend takes place 12 – 14 October 2018. For full details check out openhousedublin.com The weekend is organised by Irish Architecture Foundation.
