Ireland Top Green Buildings
Ireland is home to some of the most impressive green buildings in the world, with innovative designs that combine sustainability and architectural excellence. As the demand for environmentally-friendly construction practices grows, Ireland has emerged as a leader in green architecture. From energy-efficient designs to eco-conscious construction methods, sustainable building designs have become a top priority in the country.
Miesian Plaza
Miesian Plaza is a redevelopment of three 1960s office blocks originally designed by Scott Tallon Walker, comprising approximately 240,000 sq ft of Grade A office space on Dublin’s Baggot Street. It is the first building in Ireland to achieve LEED Platinum v4 certification, the highest accreditation from the USGBC. Block 1 houses the Department of Health, Department of Children and Youth Affairs and Department of Finance, while Blocks 2 and 3 are occupied by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company.
Central Bank of Ireland Headquarters
Rising from the abandoned shell of the former Anglo Irish Bank headquarters on Dublin’s North Quay, the Central Bank of Ireland’s new home transformed a symbol of the financial crisis into a sustainability flagship. Built in Dublin’s financial district, it was the first office building in Ireland to earn BREEAM’s highest rating, setting a new standard for office developments across Ireland. The 37,000 sqm scheme comfortably surpasses the proposed nearly zero energy building standard while achieving the onerous BREEAM Outstanding rating.
The Exo Building
Comprising 17 storeys in total, the Exo Building in Dublin’s docklands currently stands as the city’s tallest office building, and the striking near-zero energy building is reported to be in the top 2% of buildings in the world in terms of its sustainability, holding both a LEED Platinum certification and Building Energy Rating (BER) of A3. An Post, Ireland’s national post service, is the anchor tenant, leasing six floors for its new headquarters.
One Wilton Park (LinkedIn EMEA HQ)
One Wilton Park, LinkedIn’s new HQ building with LEED Platinum sustainability credentials, sits on a prominent triangular site along Dublin’s Grand Canal, and is the first building to be completed in a new campus designed by Henry J Lyons and developed by IPUT Real Estate. The 150,000 sq ft tower was completed in April 2022 as the opening phase of the wider Wilton Park development.
Two to Four Wilton Park
Two to Four Wilton Park is a dynamic mixed-use urban development in Dublin that reimagines a previously hidden part of the city, forming part of IPUT’s overall Wilton Park masterplan with three separate interlinked buildings facing onto Wilton Park and the Grand Canal. During construction 95% of demolition waste was recycled, the offices use 60% less energy than the average building, and Two to Four Wilton Park operate free of fossil fuels, running solely on renewable energy.
DAA Head Office
DAA employs 4,000 people across airport management, operation, retail and aviation consultancy in Ireland and internationally, and when building a new head office it set out to align with its broader sustainability strategy for Dublin Airport. Architects Henry J Lyons and contractors Stewart played a key role in reaching the sustainability targets, with the 8,000m² building achieving LEED Platinum certification and an energy rating of A3.
ESB Headquarters
Demolishing 16 18th-century townhomes to build the original ESB complex in the 1970s disrupted the flow of the historic Georgian Mile, and the new building restores architectural continuity while replacing that edition with a contemporary office building. The 45,000-square-metre structure achieved BREEAM Excellent certification, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability as well as aesthetics and tradition. The building has also been recognised as the Irish Building Project of the Year 2022.
Gas Networks Ireland Networks Services Centre
The vision for the Networks Services Centre came about in 2008 when Gas Networks Ireland decided to amalgamate four of its key Dublin operations buildings into one location, with achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating a central part of the brief, making it one of the first office buildings on a brownfield site in Ireland to pursue sustainability in a radical way. The design was chosen via a competition won by Denis Byrne Architects, whose entry uniquely brought all services together into a single building.
Silken Park (Phase 3)
The 59-unit third phase of Durkan Residential’s Silken Park housing scheme in Citywest is Ireland’s largest certified passive house development to date. A development of rapidly built, affordable, all-electric passive houses set up to adapt easily to net zero energy, the scheme is also the first by a private developer to meet the Irish Green Building Council’s Home Performance Index sustainability certification.
Pipers Square
Cairn Homes, Ireland’s largest house builder, has announced a bold commitment to Passivhaus standards, starting with over 1,700 homes already underway. Pipers Square in Charlestown will deliver 598 apartments and is set to be Europe’s largest Passivhaus development. Cairn expects to reduce the heat energy demand of its homes by more than half, with residents predicted to save around 41% on annual energy bills.
Coopers Cross
Coopers Cross is a major mixed-use development on Dublin’s North Docks delivered by Kennedy Wilson and Cain International, comprising offices, residential and public realm. Building One Coopers Cross (153,967 sq ft) and Building Two Coopers Cross (414,367 sq ft) were both certified Platinum under LEED v4 BD+C Core & Shell, each scoring 87 points, in June 2024.
Key Takeaways:
- Ireland is witnessing a significant increase in green building activity, with 54% of Irish organizations expecting their projects to be green by 2021.
- Client demands and environmental regulations are driving the adoption of sustainable building practices in the country.
- The lack of educated green building professionals is a challenge, but the Irish Green Building Council is addressing this through training programs.
- Healthier buildings and improved occupant health are key priorities in the green building industry.
- The Irish Green Building Council showcases sustainable commercial buildings, such as the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland, which have achieved the highest level of environmental certification.
As Ireland continues to prioritize sustainability in its construction sector, the Irish Green Building Council plays a crucial role in promoting green building best practices and raising awareness about energy efficiency. By embracing green architecture and sustainable design principles, Ireland is paving the way for a greener future.
Green Building Activity in Ireland
Green building activity in Ireland is on the rise, with a significant number of organizations embracing eco-friendly construction practices and designing energy-efficient buildings. According to the World Green Building Trends 2018 SmartMarket Report, 54% of Irish organizations expect their projects to be green by 2021, which is higher than the global average of 47%. This increase in green building activity can be attributed to client demands for sustainable construction and the stricter environmental regulations in the country.
However, one of the key obstacles in the widespread adoption of green building practices is the lack of educated green building professionals. To address this issue, the Irish Green Building Council has been working diligently to update the sustainability skills of the construction sector through training programs and initiatives. By equipping professionals with the knowledge and expertise in sustainable construction practices, the council aims to drive the transformation towards greener buildings in Ireland.
Healthier buildings and improved occupant health are also top priorities in the green building industry. The Irish Green Building Council is actively organizing tours of sustainable commercial buildings in Ireland, such as the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland. These buildings have achieved the highest level of environmental certification, showcasing their commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable design principles.
The tours organized by the Irish Green Building Council aim to raise awareness about the importance of green building practices and showcase buildings that are good for both the planet and the people. By promoting best practices and providing real-life examples, the council plays a vital role in driving sustainable construction practices in Ireland. Affiliated with the World Green Building Council, the Irish Green Building Council continues to collaborate with stakeholders to create a greener and more sustainable built environment in the country.
| Benefits of Green Building in Ireland | Environmental | Health and Well-being | Economic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reduced carbon emissions | Enhanced indoor air quality | Lower operating costs | |
| Conservation of natural resources | Increased occupant productivity | Incentives and grants | |
| Improved waste management | Stress reduction | Higher property value | |
| Enhanced thermal comfort |
Sustainable Design Principles and Certification
Sustainable design principles play a crucial role in green buildings, with certifications like LEED ensuring that structures meet stringent environmental standards. These principles focus on reducing the environmental impact of buildings while promoting energy efficiency and occupant well-being. By incorporating sustainable design features, buildings can minimize their carbon footprint, conserve resources, and provide healthier indoor environments for occupants.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is one of the most prominent certifications for green buildings. It provides a framework for evaluating a building’s performance across several categories, including sustainable site development, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation. Obtaining LEED certification requires meeting specific criteria and earning points, ultimately achieving different levels of certification, such as Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.
Green building solutions are essential in achieving sustainable design principles. These solutions encompass various technologies and strategies that enhance a building’s energy efficiency and reduce its environmental impact. Examples include renewable energy systems like solar panels, energy-efficient HVAC systems, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and passive design strategies that optimize natural lighting and ventilation. By implementing these solutions, buildings can significantly reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions.
| Benefits of Sustainable Design Principles and Certifications |
|---|
| 1. Environmental Protection |
| 2. Energy Efficiency |
| 3. Resource Conservation |
| 4. Improved Indoor Environmental Quality |
| 5. Occupant Health and Well-being |
By embracing sustainable design principles and pursuing certifications like LEED, buildings can contribute to a more sustainable future. These practices not only benefit the environment but also create healthier and more comfortable spaces for occupants. As the demand for green buildings continues to grow, it is crucial for architects, engineers, and construction professionals to prioritize sustainable design principles and incorporate green building solutions into their projects.
Showcase of Ireland’s Sustainable Commercial Buildings
Ireland boasts impressive examples of sustainable commercial buildings, including the renowned Twitter European headquarters and the eco-friendly Central Bank of Ireland. These buildings have achieved the highest level of environmental certification, setting a standard for sustainable building design in the country.
The Twitter European headquarters, located in Dublin, is a prime example of how sustainable design principles can be integrated into a modern commercial space. The building incorporates innovative features such as rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient lighting, and green roofs, which enhance its environmental performance. The architectural design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable and healthy work environment for employees.
The Central Bank of Ireland, situated in Dublin’s city center, is another notable sustainable commercial building. It showcases a combination of energy-efficient technologies, solar panels, and a highly efficient building envelope. The use of sustainable materials and recycled resources further contributes to the building’s eco-friendly footprint. The Central Bank of Ireland exemplifies the successful integration of sustainable design with functionality, providing a productive workspace while minimizing its impact on the environment.
Irish Green Building Council
The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) plays a pivotal role in promoting and advocating for sustainable building practices in Ireland. As a member of the World Green Building Council, the IGBC actively encourages the adoption of green building solutions and certifications. Through their initiatives, the IGBC promotes energy efficiency, resource conservation, and occupant health in commercial buildings across the country.
To raise awareness about sustainable architectural practices, the IGBC organizes tours of green buildings, including the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland. These tours allow professionals and the general public to experience firsthand the benefits of sustainable design and its positive impact on the environment. By showcasing these examples, the IGBC aims to inspire others to incorporate sustainable principles into their own building projects and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Summary:
Ireland’s sustainable commercial buildings, such as the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland, demonstrate the country’s commitment to sustainable building practices. These buildings have achieved the highest level of environmental certification and serve as inspiring examples for the construction industry. The Irish Green Building Council plays a vital role in promoting sustainable building practices and organizing tours to raise awareness about the benefits of green architecture. By embracing sustainable design principles, Ireland is moving towards a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Green construction practices in Ireland are paving the way for a more sustainable future, with the Irish Green Building Council at the forefront of promoting environmentally conscious building solutions. According to the World Green Building Trends 2018 SmartMarket Report, 54% of Irish organizations expect their projects to be green by 2021, higher than the global average of 47%. This demonstrates the increasing focus on sustainable building designs in the country.
Client demands and environmental regulations play a significant role in driving green building activity in Ireland. However, there is a recognized obstacle in the form of a lack of educated green building professionals. To address this, the Irish Green Building Council is working diligently to update the sustainability skills of the construction sector through comprehensive training programs.
One of the top priorities in the study is the creation of healthier buildings and improved occupant health. To showcase sustainable commercial buildings in Ireland, the Irish Green Building Council is organizing tours, including visits to notable examples such as the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland. These buildings have achieved the highest level of environmental certification, signifying their commitment to sustainable practices.
Through these tours, the Irish Green Building Council aims to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and demonstrate the potential of buildings that are good for both the planet and the people. As an affiliate of the World Green Building Council, the Irish Green Building Council is dedicated to promoting green building best practices in Ireland and ensuring a greener future for generations to come.
FAQ
What is the percentage of Irish organizations expecting their projects to be green by 2021?
According to the World Green Building Trends 2018 SmartMarket Report, 54% of Irish organizations expect their projects to be green by 2021.
What are the main triggers for green building activity in Ireland?
Client demands and environmental regulations are the main triggers for green building activity in Ireland.
What is the main obstacle to green building in Ireland?
The lack of educated green building professionals is seen as a key obstacle in Ireland.
How is the Irish Green Building Council addressing the lack of educated green building professionals?
The Irish Green Building Council is working to update the sustainability skills of the construction sector through training programs.
What are the top priorities in the study on green buildings in Ireland?
Healthier buildings and improved occupant health are top priorities in the study on green buildings in Ireland.
Which sustainable commercial buildings in Ireland are being showcased in tours organized by the Irish Green Building Council?
The Irish Green Building Council is organizing tours of sustainable commercial buildings in Ireland, including the Twitter European headquarters and the Central Bank of Ireland.
What is the aim of the tours organized by the Irish Green Building Council?
The tours aim to raise awareness about energy efficiency and showcase buildings that are good for the planet and people.
Which international organization is the Irish Green Building Council affiliated with?
The Irish Green Building Council is affiliated with the World Green Building Council and promotes green building best practices in Ireland.
Source Links
- https://worldgbc.org/gbc/irish-green-building-council/
- https://www.igbc.ie/latest-irish-green-building-trends-over-half-of-survey-respondents-expect-to-make-60-of-their-projects-green-by-2021/
- https://irishbuildingmagazine.ie/2017/09/21/irish-green-building-council-organise-tour-of-some-of-irelands-most-sustainable-office-buildings/
Dublin Top Green Buildings and Their Architects
1 year ago[…] In Ireland, there’s a big push for green building. Many groups are choosing eco-friendly ways to build and create buildings that don’t use a lot of energy. According to the World Green Building Trends 2018 SmartMarket Report, 54% of Irish groups plan to build green by 2021. This is more than the global average, which is 47%. This change is partly because more people want sustainable buildings. Also, there are stricter rules about the environment in Ireland now.2 […]