ABOUT THE CHURCH AND SCHOOL
Saint Laurence O'Toole's Church: A Landmark Blending History and Modernity
St. Laurence O'Toole's Church, located on Seville Place off of Sheriff Street Lower in Dublin, is a striking blend of the area's rich history and its commitment to the future. Built in the mid-19th century with a Gothic Revival design by Joseph B. Keane, the church's limestone exterior and tall spire serve as a reminder of the past. The namesake, St. Laurence O'Toole, was Dublin's 12th-century Archbishop, known for his work among the poor.
Preserving the Past, Investing in the Future
The church complex has undergone a remarkable transformation with the 2022 extension to St. Laurence O' Toole's National School. This project aimed to unite the historically separate boys and girls schools, operating side by side for over 170 years. The designers carefully restored and conserved the protected school buildings, improving energy efficiency and ventilation for modernised learning spaces.
Architectural Dialogue
The true brilliance of the project lies in the contemporary glass and Corten steel extension that links the two older school buildings. This addition provides a library, assembly space, rooftop terraces, administrative facilities, and social spaces for interaction and informal learning. The juxtaposition of the extension's modern lines with the historical school buildings creates a fascinating architectural conversation.
A Vibrant Focal Point
Externally, the space takes on a playful energy. A rainbow playground surface spills from the church building towards Sheriff Street, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding stone structures. This creates a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for the students.
St. Laurence O'Toole's Church and its school extension exemplify Dublin's ability to honour its past while investing in the educational and social needs of its future generations. The complex has become a true community hub, offering a place for worship, learning, and the celebration of both history and progress.
St. Laurence O'Toole's Church, located on Seville Place off of Sheriff Street Lower in Dublin, is a striking blend of the area's rich history and its commitment to the future. Built in the mid-19th century with a Gothic Revival design by Joseph B. Keane, the church's limestone exterior and tall spire serve as a reminder of the past. The namesake, St. Laurence O'Toole, was Dublin's 12th-century Archbishop, known for his work among the poor.
Preserving the Past, Investing in the Future
The church complex has undergone a remarkable transformation with the 2022 extension to St. Laurence O' Toole's National School. This project aimed to unite the historically separate boys and girls schools, operating side by side for over 170 years. The designers carefully restored and conserved the protected school buildings, improving energy efficiency and ventilation for modernised learning spaces.
Architectural Dialogue
The true brilliance of the project lies in the contemporary glass and Corten steel extension that links the two older school buildings. This addition provides a library, assembly space, rooftop terraces, administrative facilities, and social spaces for interaction and informal learning. The juxtaposition of the extension's modern lines with the historical school buildings creates a fascinating architectural conversation.
A Vibrant Focal Point
Externally, the space takes on a playful energy. A rainbow playground surface spills from the church building towards Sheriff Street, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding stone structures. This creates a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for the students.
St. Laurence O'Toole's Church and its school extension exemplify Dublin's ability to honour its past while investing in the educational and social needs of its future generations. The complex has become a true community hub, offering a place for worship, learning, and the celebration of both history and progress.
ABOUT THE CHURCH AND SCHOOL