Other Projects

Action Plan on Energy for Dublin – Consultation Draft

Read the analysis of the residential sector by clicking here

York Street Sustainable Housing

The redevelopment of York Street was officially opened in May 2009 and leads the way in sustainable living for Dublin.  The newly-constructed apartments boast excellent Building Energy Ratings –with ratings from B2 to A3 – and could reduce fuel costs to residents by up to 70 per cent.

The high BERs can be attributed to various energy efficiency measures such as low energy design, energy conservation and a community heating system.  It is estimated that these measures will result in over 50 per cent reduction in both energy usage and CO₂ emissions.

The redevelopment by Dublin City Council includes 66 new council apartments arranged in five blocks with communal spaces on the ground floor and three roof gardens.  A major feature of this redevelopment is the use of solar panels on the roof, which provide hot water for the residents.  Highly-efficient condensing gas boilers back up the solar panels at peak load.  The majority of blocks have a group heating system, with individual apartments fitted with heat exchangers and heat meters to accurately measure and bill individual energy users.

Timbers from the original floor joists in the demolished building were salvaged and reused as part of the new roof structure.  Rainwater from the main roofs is collected for use in the gardens, to conserve water and reduce flooding.

A smaller mews development to the rear is constructed in brick and timber with lime render finish to the external walls.  Green roofs are also incorporated, helping to restore the vegetated footprint that was lost when the original buildings were constructed.

Funding for this programme was awarded through the House of Tomorrow Programme, which is funded by the National Development Plan and managed by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI).

This scheme was designed by Sean Harrington Architects, who address issues of environmental sustainability in building design.

Environmental Features

• Shallow Plan blocks for good day-lighting & natural ventilation
• Dual aspect apartments and dual aspect living spaces
• Adaptable glazed balconies on south and west facades
• Green roofs to control water seepage & attract wildlife etc

Sustainable Design

• Renewable Energy
• Energy Conservation
• Effective Day-Lighting
• Building Fabric & Materials
• Life Cycle Usage
• Rain Water Harvesting
• Waste Management

- Back to: Sustainable Homes