I HAVE NO IDEA AS TO WHY A DOOR ON HENRIETTA STREET IS DECORATED IN THIS MANNER
Henrietta Street: Where it All Began.
Among the most iconic locations for glimpsing the Georgian history of Dublin is Henrietta Street. Dublin’s first Georgian street, Henrietta Street was initially popular with landed and merchant families, and a number of hereditary peers had properties on the street in the mid-18th century.
The houses were built to have rear gardens and mews. Henrietta Street itself is the oldest Georgian street in Dublin and was the model for all the Georgian squares in the city. It was built in the 1750s, largely by Luke Gardiner and then fell into disrepair in the 19th and 20th centuries with overpopulation and poverty. In general the doors here are impressive but as colourful as elswhere in the city.
The Doors of Dublin hold a unique charm, serving as colourful portals into the city’s rich Georgian history. These iconic doors, found throughout Dublin’s elegant squares and streets, offer a delightful architectural symphony.
A Story in Every Door
Each Dublin door seems to hold its own story. Their often bright, bold colours – rich reds, vibrant blues, deep greens – stand as striking contrasts to the stately brickwork of the Georgian buildings they adorn. Beyond mere decoration, the colours had practical origins: in a time before street signs, a bold door colour helped carriages locate the right residence.
The details matter too. Intricate fanlights casting delicate patterns on inner hallways, gleaming brass knockers in whimsical shapes – lions, hands, seashells – and the ornate stonework framing these doorways speak volumes of the era’s craftsmanship.
The Doors of Dublin aren’t just beautiful objects; they hold deeper meaning. They symbolise a period of Dublin’s ascendancy as a cultural and architectural centre. More than that, they became emblems of pride and individuality for homeowners, a testament to a time when craftsmanship and artistry mattered deeply.
Finding the Doors
While Henrietta Street is a must-visit, you’ll find more colourful doors at other locations across the city. Take a stroll around:
Merrion Square and Fitzwilliam Square: These offer prime examples of high Georgian style.
Mountjoy Square: Here, you’ll find doors with a more weathered aesthetic, revealing the layers of history they hold.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply adore charming details, the Doors of Dublin will add another layer of magic to your exploration of this remarkable city.