heneghan peng architects

Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Headquarters | Dublin

The location of the site at the juncture of the Phoenix Park and the City is the critical generating moment for this project. In this project Nature-Park/Civilization-City is thought of as a fluid boundary. The distinction between park and building is blurred- the park continues onto the building - the building slides into the park.

The AHGI building is a slowly rising loop continuing uninterruptedly from one end of the park, rising to a plateau which provides views to the city and park. The ascending roof of the AHGI building creates a distinct undulating silhouette in the City and in the Park, both of which it is a part. The project loops around the perimeter of the site eventually crossing back over on itself thereby creating a courtyard. Entrance to the building from the street is through the courtyard, which is overlooked by the park on the roof above.