The Tramyard

Dalkey, Ireland

The Tramyard is a historic site located in the centre of the Dalkey Architectural Conservation Area, in South County Dublin. The site is currently unoccupied and has a series of vacant tram sheds and service buildings within its boundaries. The site has a number of listed features which include tram lines and the entrance gates and piers. The scheme recieved planning permission in 2021.

The re-making of this historic Tramyard is a chance to create a lively public plaza with a community spirit. This shared space is a place for everyone to enjoy, and there is life spilling out on all sides. The approach understands the importance of the local context and its people. The idea is to re-instate the informal market into a new enclosed square. It is both a destination and a local spot, hosting events, markets, music and food.
 
Within the main piazza the historic cottage has been restored and upgraded to become the gateway into a café, housed in two further pitched roof structures. These are made of timber with glazed sides and roof lights. In the summer the doors open and tables spill into the public square.

The three stone-clad historic tram sheds are lovingly restored and extended upwards - giving them a new life as a set of three premium buildings housing a shop or restaurant on the ground floor. Above is a dramatic office studio space characterized by the pitched roofs and clerestory glazing. 

A contemporary building replaces the two non-original, vacant buildings to provide a health centre. This linear building is clad in weathered timber with balconies and decks onto the public space. There is a retail unit on the ground floor as well as the entrance to the cultural space; a raked seating area that can be used for film showings, lectures and community events. A sculptural external corten steel stair snakes its way up to reach the roof garden on the top floor.

The Tramyard

View showing public space

The Tramyard

Entrance from street (original concept)

The Tramyard

View past bike store (original concept)

The Tramyard

Entrance at night (original concept)

The Tramyard

View of piazza (original concept)

The Tramyard

Refurbished cottage with cafe beyond

The Tramyard

Cafe building by night

The Tramyard

Entrance to cinema

The Tramyard

View from above (original concept)

The Tramyard

Impression of restaurant

The Tramyard

Impression of workspace

The Tramyard

Elevation (original concept)

The Tramyard

First design

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