THE 2024 PHOTO BLOG

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TWO DUBLIN BIKE SHOPS

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CLOSE DUE TO REDUCED BUSINESS

It’s a sad period for Dublin cyclists as two long-standing bike shops, Thinkbike in Rathmines and Terenure, have announced their closure. The owner, John Clarke, cited “difficult circumstances” and a change in work patterns post-Covid as the reasons behind the decision.

Thinkbike had been serving the Dublin cycling community for 26 years, providing bikes, accessories, and repairs to countless cyclists. Their closure is a significant loss to the local cycling scene, and many customers have expressed their sadness and disappointment on social media.

This news comes at a time when many businesses are struggling with rising costs and changing consumer habits. The pandemic has undoubtedly had a lasting impact on the retail landscape, and unfortunately, Thinkbike is not the only business feeling the effects.

It remains to be seen what will become of the two shop locations, but for now, Dublin cyclists will have to find alternative options for their cycling needs.

On the face of it, this news seems counterintuitive. With the rise in cycling’s popularity, particularly in urban areas like Dublin, and the significant investment in cycling infrastructure, one would assume bike shops would be thriving.

Here are a few factors that might be at play, despite the seemingly favourable conditions:

Increased competition: While cycling is growing, so is the number of businesses vying for a slice of the market. Online retailers, big box stores, and even supermarkets are selling bikes and accessories, increasing competition and potentially squeezing smaller, independent shops like Thinkbike.

Changing consumer habits: The way people shop has changed. Online shopping offers convenience and often lower prices, making it a tempting alternative to visiting a physical store. This is especially true for accessories and parts.

Rising costs: Like all businesses, bike shops are facing rising costs for rent, utilities, and stock. These increased overheads can make it difficult to maintain profitability, especially in a competitive market.

The e-bike boom: While the rise of e-bikes is generally positive for cycling, it also presents challenges for traditional bike shops. E-bikes require specialist knowledge and equipment for servicing and repairs, which can be a significant investment for smaller businesses.

Post-Covid challenges: As already mentioned, changes in work patterns post-Covid may also be a factor. With more people working from home, the demand for commuter bikes might have decreased, impacting sales.

It’s important to remember that every business is unique and faces its own set of challenges. While the closure of Thinkbike is undoubtedly a loss for the Dublin cycling community, it’s likely a combination of these factors that contributed to their decision.

It highlights the challenges faced by independent businesses in a rapidly changing retail environment, even within a seemingly booming sector like cycling.

MEN AT WORK REPAINTING THE KODAK BUILDING

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PHOTOGRAPHED 21 SEPTEMBER 2024

The Kodak Building, an iconic landmark in Rathmines, Dublin, stands as a testament to the Art Deco architectural style. Constructed in 1932, it was designed by the renowned Irish architectural firm, Donnelly, Moore, and Keatinge.

Initially, the building served as both a factory and warehouse for Kodak Ireland, reflecting the company’s prominence in the photography industry at the time. Its striking design, featuring a distinctive tower and horizontal steel windows embedded in concrete walls, aimed to present a modern and sophisticated image for the company.

Kodak’s operations in the building ceased in the late 20th century, marking a shift in the company’s global strategy and the evolving landscape of the photography industry. Following its closure as a Kodak facility, the building underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 1998, led by Paul Keogh Architects. This transformation repurposed the space into modern office accommodation, breathing new life into the historic structure.

Today, the Kodak Building remains a sought-after commercial address, housing various businesses, including an advertising agency. Its ownership has likely changed hands over the years, but specific details about the current owner are not be publicly available.

KENSINGTON LODGE

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GROVE PARK OFF LOWER RATHMINES ROAD

Kensington Lodge, located on Grove Park in Rathmines, Dublin, is quite a notable building. Here are some interesting points about it:  

Architectural Significance: Built in 1882, it’s a beautiful example of Queen Anne-style architecture, designed by William Isaac Chambers for himself. It’s particularly recognised for its early use of terracotta mouldings in Dublin, a detail that was highlighted in press coverage at the time.  

Historical Context: It was built on the Grove Park estate, which was being developed at the time into building sites. Its construction showcases a period of architectural innovation and experimentation in Dublin.

Present Day: It remains a striking landmark on Grove Park, admired by locals and passersby.
 
While it’s a private residence, its exterior is a testament to Dublin’s rich architectural heritage. If you’re ever in Rathmines, it’s worth taking a detour down Grove Park to appreciate Kensington Lodge’s unique charm and historical significance.

DARTRY ROAD AND MILLTOWN ROAD

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BETWEEN RATHMINES AND MILLTOWN

Dartry: A Tapestry of History, Nature, Technology, and Enterprise in Dublin

Nestled between Rathmines and Milltown, Dartry is a charming Dublin suburb where the threads of history, nature, technological advancement, and industrial heritage interweave to create a unique tapestry.

Key Landmarks and Features:

The Dublin Laundry Company

It is hard to believe that in the 1970s, there were more than six hundred battery electric vehicles on the streets of Dublin, with smaller numbers in other cities and towns throughout the country. And one of the users of such transport was Dublin Laundry Company. While often associated with Dartry, the Dublin Laundry Company was technically situated on Milltown Road. However, the proximity and historical context link it closely to the Dartry area and its industrial heritage. The company’s pioneering use of electric vehicles showcases an interesting intersection of industry and early sustainable practices.

Natural Beauty & Green Spaces:

Dartry Road, Temple Road, Orwell Park, and Palmerston Park: Picturesque thoroughfares and verdant spaces offering leisurely strolls and recreation.
The River Dodder: Meandering through the area, providing scenic beauty and a habitat for diverse wildlife.
The “Dartry Park Waterfall” (or weir): A small but charming cascade feature within the Grace O’Donnell Memorial Park section of Dartry Park.
Transport Links:

140 Bus Terminus: Situated beside Palmerston Park for convenient access.
Remnants of Tram Routes: Former termini of the 12 and 14 tramways evoke Dublin’s transport history.
Milltown Luas Stop: Provides modern-day connectivity via the Luas Green Line.
Educational & Cultural Institutions:

Trinity Hall: A vibrant student residence of Trinity College Dublin on Dartry Road.
Trinity College Botanic Garden: A tranquil oasis showcasing a diverse collection of plants, established in Dartry since 1967.
Historical Landmarks & Stories:

The Dropping Well Pub: Beside the River Dodder, this pub stands on the site of a former famine-era morgue, later becoming a popular haunt for “bona fide” travellers.

Dartry House: A two-story mansion once owned by William Martin Murphy, a central figure in the 1913 Dublin Lockout.

The Shanagarry Chimney: A repurposed industrial chimney, once part of the Dublin Laundry Company, now serving as a communications mast and a reminder of the area’s industrial past.

Dartry Mills: Located further upstream along the River Dodder, these former cloth and dye works left their mark on the area’s landscape and history. Remnants of the millrace and water wheel can still be seen.
1928 Killing of Timothy Coughlin: A somber event that took place on Dartry Road, highlighting a chapter of Ireland’s turbulent past.
Literary Connection: 3 Sunbury Gardens was once home to the renowned Irish author Máirtín Ó Cadhain.

Technological Innovation & Enterprise:

Web Summit Headquarters: The company organising the globally recognised Web Summit technology conference is based in Dartry, reflecting the area’s link to innovation and Dublin’s thriving tech scene.
Event Management Hub: Dartry’s strategic location and blend of old-world charm and modernity attract businesses in the event management sector.
Conclusion:

Dartry is more than just a suburb; it’s a microcosm of Dublin’s multifaceted identity. From its serene green spaces and historical landmarks to its connection to technological innovation and enterprise, Dartry encapsulates the essence of a city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.

MY FIRST TIME TO EXPLORE CHURCH GARDENS

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OFF CASTLEWOOD AVENUE IN RATHMINES

Church Gardens is not named after the famous Church of Mary Immaculate with its landmark Orthodox-style green copper dome (originally intended for a Russian church in 1917) but after the nearby much older Holy Trinity Church, constructed on an island site at Cambridge Villas in the 1820s.

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