Challenge

Market Square is at the heart of Dundalk’s civic and commercial life. In 2010 Dundalk Town Council won €1.9m in funding for the redevelopment of the square from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Nicholas de Jong Associates (Urban Design) were commissioned by Dundalk Town Council to design the scheme. The contract to build was awarded to John Cradock Construction Ltd (Co. Kildare).

Solution

For Omos, this project represented an opportunity to engage with the architect and contractor at an early stage to ensure that the vision could be realised in an uncompromising yet economical way. Nicholas De Jong chose from Omos's standard range for much of the furniture, as well as adapting some products to fit the project’s specific needs.

One of the key elements of the project is The Táin Sculptures by the sculptor John Behan. The sculptures were originally commissioned by Mrs Irene Quinn and displayed in the Imperial Hotel. In 1989 the sculptures were donated to Dundalk Town Council. They were subsequently attached to the exterior of the Tourism Office on the Market Square, where they remained until 2011.

Based on the architect’s concept, Omos produced eight illuminated cabinets just under 3m tall to house the restored pieces. On the reverse of each cabinet, etched on the glass, are excerpts from The Táin telling the mythical story of Cúchulainn.

Outcome

The project is a success on many levels:

  • It recognises the need that the space be capable of functioning as a trading area.
  • It embraces modern design while incorporating the history of the town and it offers a functional space for townsfolk and visitors to meet, sit and interact.
  • Most of all it ties all of these facets together to produce an environment that is both beautiful and inviting.