Grangegorman Academic Hub & Library Building

Community & Education

Conservation & Heritage

Fit Out & Refurbishment

Client

TU Dublin / Grangegorman Development Agency

Project Programme
29 months
Architects
O'Donnell + Tuomey Architects
Project Management
Nyland Consulting
Cost Management
Duke McCaffrey Consultants
Services Consultant
Max Fordham
Consultant Engineer
Horgan Lynch Consulting Engineers

Project Highlights

Grangegorman Academic Hub & Library Building

Project Summary: Delivered by the OHLA-Townlink Joint Venture, the new Academic Hub & Library is a landmark educational facility at the heart of the TU Dublin Grangegorman Campus. Designed by award-winning architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, this major development seamlessly integrates modern architectural design with the sensitive restoration of the North House, a significant mid-19th-century protected structure. By wrapping new, state-of-the-art construction around the retained historic fabric, the project creates a dynamic, 12,626m² academic and civic centerpiece that provides cutting-edge learning environments while preserving the site’s unique institutional heritage.

Project Scope and Key Deliverables:

  • Scale & Configuration: Delivery of a major 12,626m² development across five floors, comprising 9,505m² of New Build construction seamlessly integrated with the meticulously retained elements of the North House East and North House West protected structures.

  • Heritage Integration: Complex structural repurposing of the historic North House, around which the new Academic Hub rises, requiring highly sensitive conservation methodologies and precise logistical planning within a live campus.

  • Elevated Library Access: Strategic positioning of the main library entrance hall within the eastern section of the North House at first-floor level, honoring the pivotal historic role of the original 19th-century building and creating a striking architectural transition.

  • Civic Ground Floor: By raising the library entry, the street level of the Academic Hub is designed to be highly free-flowing and civic, hosting a vibrant mix of student commons, student support services, a dedicated exhibition space, and a café.

  • Modern Learning Infrastructure: Consolidation of multiple university library sites into a single, state-of-the-art facility offering superior acoustic performance, flexible study spaces, and expansive roof gardens with panoramic city views.

Testimonials

What our clients say

We pride ourselves on our close working relationships with our clients and design teams

“It was a brilliant experience from beginning to end. Townlink were so professional from the early stage of the project to literally the door handles. They were always professional and available to solve any problems. The learning environment created is wonderful for our pupils and staff.”

Deirdre Potts

Bursar at Sandford Park School
Sandford Park School

“The Le Peton Building at Sandford Park School was a challenging project within a high-profile live environment of a busy secondary school campus. Townlink ensured trust was established early on and maintained a regular, open line of communication across the project team and subcontractors. Townlink achieved all required goals within the timeframe. I look forward to working with Townlink again in the near future.”

Jitka Leonard

Senior Architect
O’Donnell & Tuomey Architects

"It was clear from day one that Townlink had a keen interest in working with the community to deliver the project safely, and with as little inconvenience as possible to the local community. Townlink worked to inform, respect and show courtesy to those affected by the work. We found the project organised, clean and tidy. It was clear that Townlink cared about the appearance of facilities, stored materials, vehicles and plant. In general, Townlink took a great interest in the community, particularly the local football team.”

Gerard Coughlin

Residence Committee
Rosemount Court

“The Townlink Construction Project Team of experts, manage and lead a large team while coordinating seamlessly over 70 subcontractors with a professional, innovative and dynamic approach. From a client perspective, I have every confidence that they meet all the legislative and regulatory requirements well within their ability. It is a pleasure to work with them in partnership and collaboration to deliver the day to day requirements of the program. In addition, they have the capacity and ability to address the unexpected, problem solve and respond effectively and efficiently to all challenges."

Elizabeth Adams

Director
Richmond Education & Event Centre

“Completed to a tight deadline, and with close attention to cost management, the design of the new ESB International Headquarters has been an exercise in collaborative work. Townlink have contributed to the delivery of an innovative, bespoke design solution delivered to a high standard of finish, with the assurance of flexible, efficient operations into the future.”

Gerard McCabe

Senior Consultant Architect
ESB International

“As a Project Lead Consultant, I was confident that through John Barden’s leadership, the job would be completed to the required standard. John ensured trust was established early on and maintained a regular, open line of communication across the project team and subcontractors. As expected and unexpected challenges arose, we worked through them methodically and practically. I was always impressed that John brought forward a range of solutions and maintained focus on delivering what the client wanted. John achieved all required goals within the timeframe. He did this by ensuring strong communication, oversight and management of all facets of the build.”

Jim Sullivan

Associate
RKD