McCann FitzGerald Headquarters | Scott Tallon Walker Architects

The site is located on a high profile site along the banks of the River Liffey. The new Calatrava designed Samuel Beckett Bridge, which spans the river immediately to the west, is a major new vehicular access route from the north to the south of Dublin City. The view from the bridge approaching the site generates a strong diagonal NW/SE axis. This axis is emphasized in the building design by locating the double-height set-back entrance on the north-western corner.. Recognizing the importance of natural light and the working environment, the building incorporates a centrally placed circular atrium, which rises through the building and extends as a glazed cylinder to the skyline. The cylinder’s tilted glass roof sloping towards the north-west again emphasizes the diagonal axial concept, and maximizes the provision of glare-free light within the building. On entering the building, the visitor’s view is directed on the diagonal from the double-height reception area to the base of the cylindrical atrium and the staff restaurant and training rooms beyond. The atrium is landscaped with bamboo in raised planters providing a delightfully relaxed and informal meeting space.