The students, academics and architects behind Open Heart City have researched and mapped the site – before pitching diverse ideas for how it could be developed.
In many homeless hostels and repurposed hotels around Dublin, homeless people have been given their own rooms to socially distance. Things can’t go back to the way they were, some say.
Most of the sculptures by Eilis O’Connell were inspired by the works of designer Eileen Gray. Once shown in France, now sat in Cork, they’re visitable – virtually – in Dublin.
Some said they were surprised with how sound their landlords had been, agreeing to reductions with no friction and great understanding. Others, though, described trickier negotiations.
The new-build student accommodation will be the best value within the college, and among the most affordable in Ireland, says Laura Beston, president of Trinity’s students’ union.
Many of those who sleep rough haven’t had anywhere to wash for weeks, says Louisa Santoro, CEO of the Mendicity Institution. This is in part because some can’t get into accommodation still either, she says.
Some say that PPPs are slower, more costly and riskier than the normal procurement process, while others see them as an innovative model in the government’s toolbox to tackle the housing crisis.
Not everyone has a park nearby, but Caimin Gilmore says he’d encourage anyone who can play an instrument to consider performing a socially distant concert for their neighbours.
The plans are for a complex with co-living, a hotel, co-working or artists studios, a restaurant, and more. Some politicians and local residents say they hope to appeal the decision.
