IMAGES SUPPLIED BY WILLIAM MURPHY

I used the Halide App and because of the really strong sunlight I could not see the settings and did not realise that HEIC had been selected. HEIC is a file format that I avoid, if possible.

Henrietta Place is a short street in Dublin city centre that acts as a connector between North King Street and the grander Henrietta Street.

Pedestrians are advised to exercise extra caution when using Henrietta Place. There are reports that some drivers use it as a “rat-run” to bypass heavier traffic, and there have also been issues with joyriders using the street at night. Please be vigilant of your surroundings when walking in this area.

The .HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) file format is a modern image format that offers several advantages, particularly in terms of storage efficiency and image quality, compared to older formats like JPG. It’s the default image format used by Apple on iPhones and iPads running iOS 11 or later.

Here’s a breakdown of what .HEIC is and why one might choose it over RAW or JPG:

What is .HEIC?

High Efficiency: HEIC utilizes a modern and advanced compression method called High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), also known as H.265. This allows it to store images at a significantly smaller file size (often around half the size of a JPG) while retaining the same or even better image quality.
Container Format: The “Container” part of the name is important. A single HEIC file can contain not just one image, but also:
Multiple images (like in Live Photos or image bursts).
Image metadata (like location, date, etc.).
Depth maps.
Alpha (transparency) information, similar to PNG.
Audio.
Higher Color Depth: HEIC supports up to 16-bit color depth, allowing for a broader range of colors and more subtle gradations compared to the 8-bit color depth of JPG. This is particularly beneficial for High Dynamic Range (HDR) images.
Why Choose HEIC over JPG?

Better Compression and Storage Efficiency: HEIC files take up significantly less storage space than JPGs for comparable image quality. This means you can store more photos on your device or in the cloud without sacrificing quality.
Superior Image Quality: HEIC can preserve more detail and dynamic range than JPG at the same file size due to its advanced compression. JPG’s compression is “lossy,” meaning it discards some image data every time the file is saved, which can lead to a gradual degradation of quality with repeated edits. While HEIC is also a lossy format, it retains more image information.
Support for Advanced Features: HEIC’s container format allows for features that JPG doesn’t support, such as storing Live Photos, burst sequences, and transparency within a single file.
Future-Proofing: As technology evolves, HEIC is better positioned to handle advancements in display technology and image capture, such as HDR.
Why Choose HEIC over RAW?

Smaller File Sizes: RAW files contain all the unprocessed data captured by the camera sensor, resulting in very large file sizes. HEIC offers much higher compression, making files significantly smaller and easier to manage and store.
Ready to Use: HEIC files are processed by the device to produce a viewable image. RAW files require post-processing in specialised software before they can be viewed or printed.
Device Integration: HEIC is often deeply integrated into the operating system of devices that use it (like Apple’s iOS), offering seamless viewing and sharing within that ecosystem.
Why NOT Choose HEIC?

Compatibility Issues: The biggest drawback of HEIC is its limited compatibility compared to the universally supported JPG format. While support for HEIC has grown in recent years across operating systems and software, it’s still not as widely accepted. You might encounter issues when sharing HEIC files with users on older systems or uploading them to certain platforms that don’t support it. In such cases, conversion to JPG might be necessary.
Less Editing Flexibility than RAW: While HEIC offers good image quality, it doesn’t retain the same level of unprocessed data as RAW files. This means that for extensive post-processing and adjustments, especially regarding exposure and white balance, RAW files offer significantly more flexibility.
In Summary:

Choose HEIC if you prioritise storage efficiency and high image quality on devices that support it, especially within the Apple ecosystem. It’s a good balance for everyday photography.
Choose JPG if you need maximum compatibility across various devices, software, and platforms, even if it means slightly larger file sizes and potentially lower image quality compared to HEIC at the same size. It’s a safe bet for sharing and general use.
Choose RAW if you are a professional or enthusiast photographer who demands the absolute maximum image quality and editing flexibility for extensive post-processing, even if it means dealing with large file sizes and the need for specialised software.

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DAY TWO 28 JANUARY 2025

As already mentioned in an earlier post Eatokyo on Capel Street closed on Sunday [26 January 2025]. Within a week or two Tucano+ will open at the same location and I plan to visit them on their opening day. Especially as the he new restaurant will feature some really interesting urban art.

Tucano appears to be a relatively new arrival to Dublin, focusing on Brazilian cuisine. Their existing restaurant has garnered attention for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Brazilian dishes.

Tucano Plus: The new Capel Street location, dubbed “Tucano Plus”, is being touted as an “upmarket” version. The intriguing addition is the “special sushi menu”, a nod perhaps to the location’s previous occupant and a potential bid to attract a wider audience.

Eatokyo:

Wellington Quay: While an exact opening date for their first location on Wellington Quay is tricky to pin down without further digging, it appears they were established there for a good number of years, becoming a popular spot for Japanese cuisine in Temple Bar. Their website mentions it being a “peaceful haven” by the River Liffey, suggesting it was a well-loved fixture. I first visited this restaurant at Christmas 2018 and have some photographs to prove it but for some reason I never visited it since then

Expansion: Eatokyo later expanded to two other locations:
Capel Street: This branch, now taken over by Tucano Plus, aimed to bring “the finest Asian street food to the heart of the city”. Since the ending of Covid restrictions I have visited at least once a week.

Talbot Street: Also taken over by Tucano, this branch was praised for its “bento boxes and sushi selections” and described as having a “modern atmospheric restaurant” vibe.

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I WAS INVITED TO A CLOSING PARTY

Eatokyo Capel Street: A Dublin Dining Gem Fades Away

It’s with a heavy heart that I write this post about the closure of Eatokyo on Capel Street. I distinctly remember my first visit shortly after they opened. Now, they will cease trading on 26th January 2025, another victim of the perfect storm that has been brewing in Dublin’s hospitality sector. I’ve been a loyal customer ever since, always impressed by their delicious food and friendly service. It’s a real shame to see them go.

Today, I was the last customer to leave at 5 pm. It was a bittersweet experience saying goodbye to the staff. Two have relocated to the last remaining Eatokyo in Temple Bar, one is returning to Mongolia, and another is heading back to Japan in a few weeks. Jack, the owner, has taken over Essence in Dundrum, which I hope to visit regularly. (I should mention that I received a gift of two Japanese lacquered panels before I left – they knew I was a collector of Chinese and Korean pieces!)

Eatokyo’s closure has got me thinking about the wider challenges facing Dublin businesses. Over the years, I’ve seen many of my favourite local restaurants close their doors. This trend, alarmingly evident on Capel Street with its growing number of empty units, seems to have accelerated since the Dublin Riot in 2023.

A City in Crisis?

Eatokyo’s story, like many others, is sadly familiar. They navigated the turbulent waters of the Covid-19 lockdowns, but the riot devastated their expected Christmas business. Like many restaurants in the area, they saw advanced and block bookings disappear overnight. The subsequent shift to working from home and a growing perception of the Northside as unsafe further eroded their customer base.

But Eatokyo’s struggles are not unique. The hospitality industry in Dublin, and particularly in the North Inner City, has been grappling with a multitude of challenges:

Overtourism Concerns? In 2023, a report placed Dublin third on an “Overtourism Index”. However, tourism experts have questioned this, given the significant drop in tourism since the pandemic. Was Dublin truly suffering from overtourism, or were these concerns overblown?

The Lingering Shadow of Covid-19: The pandemic had a devastating impact. Lockdowns forced businesses to close, leading to significant revenue losses and job cuts. Dublin hotels, reliant on international tourism, struggled. Even after the lockdowns, the industry continued to face difficulties, including a record number of closure orders issued to food businesses in 2024.

The Scar of the 2023 Dublin Riot: The riot resulted in widespread damage and looting, and had a profound psychological impact on the area. Businesses reported a sharp decline in footfall, as people avoided the Northside due to safety concerns.

The Rise of Remote Working: With fewer people commuting to offices, lunchtime trade has dwindled. While some restaurants have seen an increase in weekend trade, this hasn’t been enough to offset the decline in weekday business.

Soaring Costs and Staffing Shortages: Rising food and energy prices, coupled with increased labour costs, are squeezing profit margins. At the same time, the industry is struggling to attract and retain staff. Brexit has made it more difficult to recruit from the EU.

Tax and VAT Woes: The tax warehousing program, introduced during the pandemic, allowed businesses to defer tax liabilities. However, the repayment terms are now adding to their financial burdens. Furthermore, the reversion of the VAT rate for hospitality from 9% to 13.5% has also contributed to rising costs.

What Can Be Done?

The closure of Eatokyo is a stark reminder of the challenges facing Dublin’s hospitality industry. While there are no easy solutions, a concerted effort is needed to support struggling businesses:

Government Support: Initiatives like the “Power Up” grant and Fáilte Ireland’s programmes are crucial.

Community Action: We can all play our part by supporting local businesses, spreading the word, attending local events, challenging negative perceptions, and advocating for change.

Conclusion

The closure of Eatokyo is a sad loss for Dublin. However, it also serves as a wake-up call. The challenges are real and multifaceted. While government support is crucial, the future of Dublin’s hospitality sector ultimately depends on a collaborative effort. By working together, we can help ensure that other businesses don’t suffer the same fate as Eatokyo. Let’s cherish and celebrate Dublin’s diverse culinary landscape. What will it take for Dublin to not only survive, but truly thrive as a culinary destination?

The post EATOKYO ON CAPEL STREET TODAY WAS THE LAST DAY – SUNDAY 26 JANUARY 2025 appeared first on URBAN CARTOGRAPHER 2025.

NOT MUCH DAMAGE TO BE SEEN IN CAPEL STREET

Today, 24 January 2025, the shops and restaurants in the Bolton Street/Capel street were closed because of “RED” weather warnings.

Storm Éowyn, a powerful and unusual weather system, brought significant disruption to Ireland and the UK in late January 2025. On 24 January, businesses in Dublin’s Bolton Street/Capel Street area were forced to close due to “Red” weather warnings, indicating the severity of the impending storm. Éowyn’s impact was felt across a wide area, with provisional peak wind gusts of 100 mph recorded at Drumalbin, Lanarkshire, a figure that may be revised as further data is analysed. This intensity of wind, coupled with persistent heavy rainfall, made Éowyn a particularly potent storm.

What distinguished Éowyn was not just its wind speeds, but also its broad impact and the subsequent weather systems it triggered. Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly explained that while Éowyn’s direct influence diminished as it moved north and east on Saturday morning, it paved the way for another area of low pressure arriving from the southwest on Sunday. This second system, named Storm Herminia by the Spanish Meteorological Service (though not meeting the criteria for naming by the Met Office, Met Éireann, and KNMI storm naming group), hampered recovery efforts and brought further wind and rain, increasing the risk of flooding in already saturated areas.

The Met Office predicted widespread rainfall of 10-20mm across central and southern England, much of Wales, and Northern Ireland on Sunday, with 30-50mm possible over higher ground. The potential for thundery showers further exacerbated the risk of flooding. This continuous onslaught of rain on already saturated ground created a heightened risk of both river and surface water flooding.

The impact of these storms was multifaceted. Sarah Cook, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, highlighted the potential for significant surface water flooding in central and south-west England on Sunday and into Monday, with minor impacts possible more widely. The Environment Agency deployed teams to mitigate the impact of flooding and support local authorities. They urged the public to stay away from swollen rivers and avoid driving through floodwater, emphasising the danger of even shallow flowing water.

Travel was also significantly affected. RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson warned of ongoing disruption for drivers, particularly in western England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Fallen trees, debris, and flooding made journeys longer and, in some cases, impassable. Drivers were advised to exercise extreme caution, allow extra time for journeys, or postpone travel until conditions improved. The increased risk of standing water also raised the threat of aquaplaning.

The unsettled weather pattern was forecast to continue into the following week, with further periods of heavy rain and wind, although less severe than Éowyn. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Mark Sidaway indicated a trend towards more settled conditions in the second half of the week, potentially bringing frost and fog. The combined impact of Éowyn and the subsequent weather systems highlighted the importance of accurate forecasting and preparedness in the face of severe weather.

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24 JANUARY 2025 THE DAY OF THE BIG STORM

Capel Street in Dublin is a vibrant hub for food lovers, constantly evolving with new restaurants and culinary experiences. This week sees a change in the street’s landscape with the opening of Hana Izakaya by Musashi and the closure of Eatokyo.

Eatokyo, a long-standing Japanese restaurant on Capel Street, has sadly closed. While no official reason has been publicly given, their website only lists trading hours and contact details for their Temple Bar location. This closure highlights the difficult climate for the hospitality industry, particularly with rising costs and VAT increases impacting businesses.

Gushi, an Asian fusion restaurant that operated on Capel Street for two and a half years, has also recently closed. Again, no official reason has been provided for the closure. The competitive nature of Dublin’s restaurant scene and the increasing costs of operation are likely contributing factors. It’s reported that 577 eateries across Ireland have closed since the September 2023 VAT increase.

However, the closure of these establishments creates opportunities for new ventures. Hana Izakaya by Musashi, the latest addition to the Musashi group, has now opened on Capel Street. Musashi, already established in Dublin with six branches, is known for its high-quality Japanese and Thai cuisine, fresh ingredients, and lively atmosphere.

An izakaya is a Japanese pub where food is as central as the drinks. It offers casual dining with sharing plates in a relaxed setting. It’s similar to Spanish tapas but focuses on traditional Japanese dishes and sake. Hana Izakaya by Musashi offers both delivery and in-store dining.

Capel Street continues to be a diverse culinary destination. While the closures of Gushi and Eatokyo are unfortunate, they also allow new concepts like Hana Izakaya by Musashi to emerge. Despite the challenges faced by the hospitality sector, Capel Street’s dining scene remains resilient and adaptable. With its focus on fresh ingredients, a blend of Japanese and Thai cuisine, and the convivial atmosphere of an izakaya, Hana Izakaya by Musashi is well-placed to succeed.

The post THIS WEEK EATYKO CLOSES AND HANA IZAKAYA BY MUSASHI OPENED appeared first on URBAN CARTOGRAPHER 2025.

1 JANUARY 2025

Many years ago, I photographed an official sign that read “FORTY FOOT MEN ONLY”. My account of the area should explain why this was considered amusing.

Sandycove Avenue forms three sides of a rectangle, bounded on the south by Sandycove Terrace (part of Sandycove Road). Originally, Sandycove Avenue East was a cul-de-sac leading to the Martello Tower (Joyce’s Tower, Sandycove), as shown on maps from 1820. By 1860, only two houses stood on Sandycove Avenue East. Ten years later, significant building had occurred, including three houses designated Ellerslie Terrace, alongside detached and terraced houses. The 1901 census recorded 27 houses, five of which were vacant, with 98 occupants. Five houses were classified as first class. In 1884, the first meeting of the Dublin Bay Sailing Club took place at Number 7 Sandycove Avenue East, the home of Major Edward White. St Kilda’s, a villa-style house on the east side, was owned by Francis Falkner, a grocer with shops in Grafton Street and London.

Sandycove Avenue West runs north from Sandycove Road towards Sandycove Point. It features an attractive wall-mounted post box bearing the Saorstát Éireann signage. Four terraced houses and two large houses, Cove Castle (Number 9) and St Michael’s, predate 1860. Most of the remaining east side was completed within the following decade.

Sandycove Point is a residential area on a northerly headland between Bullock Harbour and Glasthule. The area boasts outstanding built heritage, including Victorian terraced and villa-style residences, an acclaimed International Modernist house designed by Irish architect Michael Scott, and various maritime, defensive, and bathing-related structures. The headland offers a sheltered harbour on its west side, along with a park and beach providing recreational facilities.

Before the 19th century, the Sandycove area, between Glasthule and Bullock, was largely uninhabited. The rough terrain was scattered with rocks and disused, water-filled quarries. Primarily a local fishing spot, old sketches depict humble cottages in sheltered locations with timber fishing boats drawn up on the rocks. A lifeboat service was established in Sandycove in 1803, housed in a boathouse now part of Neptune Lodge.

The Martello Tower, one of 74 built around the Irish coast (mainly south and east) to defend against a threatened Napoleonic invasion, was erected between 1801 and 1804 in about six months. Many, like this one, were attached to a battery or fort. These stone towers were forty feet high with eight-foot thick walls. The entrance was typically ten feet above ground, protected by a machicolation from which scalding water could be poured onto attackers. Sandycove’s is one of the most famous, as James Joyce briefly resided there. The opening scene of Ulysses is set on its gun platform, hence its name, Joyce’s Tower. Since 1964, it has operated as a Joycean museum and visitor centre, owned by Dublin Tourism Enterprises.

The battery, a massive cut-stone bulwark, was built shortly after the tower. Bedrock rises within the fort, forming its highest point. A flagstaff likely stood at the battery’s centre, communicating with the old telegraph station on Dalkey Hill. During the Second World War, searchlights and guns were stationed here. The battery is now part of a private house converted in 1955 from the existing garrison building. In its prime, it housed 36 artillerymen.

The harbour, completed in 1864 to support boating and fishing, fell into disrepair by the late 19th century as Dublin Port and Docks Board ceased its use. However, the area remained popular for bathing, particularly at the Forty Foot. It is believed the army presence at Sandycove Point established this all-male bathing tradition.

The name “Forty Foot” has various explanations: the fortieth foot regiment stationed at the battery, the forty-foot wide Marine Road in Dún Laoghaire, or the sea’s depth. However, Pearson suggests it derives from the area being called “Forty Foot Hole” since around 1800, a common term for deep-water fishing pools around the Irish coast.

Despite being a long-established bathing spot, facilities were limited until around 1880, when the Sandycove Bathers’ Association was formed. In 1909, the local authority won a case forcing the association to spend nearly £2,000 on improvements: removing dangerous rocks, carving steps, installing ladders, building screen walls, and repairing storm damage. Since then, it has been well-maintained and is now enjoyed by both men and women.

References to hot and cold baths in Sandycove date back to 1838. Owned by Mr John Walsh, they were initially Walsh’s Baths, then the Sandycove Ladies’ Baths, located north of Sandycove Park. The 1844 railway extension to Dalkey and the subsequent Sandycove station boosted the district’s residential development and popularity, coinciding with Dún Laoghaire’s Victorian boom. Land was sold to speculative builders, much of it once belonging to the Proby Estate. The Proby estate at Sandycove and Dalkey originated from a Proby marriage to the Allen estate heiress of Stillorgan in the late 18th century.

The Allens, Dublin builders, acquired much land in south County Dublin, including Sandycove, during Charles I’s reign. In the early 19th century, Admiral Proby made five leases of coastal land in Sandycove, where villas and terraced houses were built.

The first Proby leases in Sandycove appear around 1803. Many houses built between 1830 and 1850 were rented to summer visitors for high prices. These middle-class merchants or professionals, living in city-centre terraced houses, sought the fresher air of coastal towns like Sandycove during summer. Eventually, tenants bought the freeholds from the original leaseholders, making them permanent residences.

While most houses date from the Victorian speculative building boom, there is impressive architectural diversity from before and after this period. One example is ‘Geragh’, built by Michael Scott in 1936 as his own residence at Sandycove Point.

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PAST AND PRESENT

Dun Laoghaire Baths: A History

This blog post explores the captivating history of Dun Laoghaire Baths, nestled in the picturesque seaside town of Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland. Constructed in 1843 by a private company, the baths were initially intended to provide both fresh and saltwater swimming experiences for the affluent residents of Kingstown, now known as Dun Laoghaire. Over the years, these baths have undergone numerous renovations and transformations, reflecting the changing social and recreational landscape of the town.  

Research Methodology

To compile this comprehensive account of Dun Laoghaire Baths, a meticulous research process was undertaken. This involved a thorough examination of online resources, including historical archives, local council websites, and community blogs. Additionally, relevant articles and publications were reviewed to gather diverse perspectives and insights into the baths’ history and current status.

Construction and Early Years

The story of Dun Laoghaire Baths begins in 1843 when John Crosthwaite erected the Royal Victoria Baths east of the East Pier. These baths were exclusively designed for the well-to-do inhabitants of Kingstown. This period coincided with a shift in bathing practices, as the popularity of spas, once favoured by the wealthy, began to wane with the rise of sea-bathing. The health benefits associated with sea swimming and fresh air were gaining recognition, contributing to the growing appeal of seaside resorts like Dun Laoghaire.  

In 1896, the Kingston Urban District Council purchased the baths, and the firm Alexander Fraser was commissioned to construct new baths on the current site. Completed in June 1908, these new baths laid the foundation for the structure as it stands today. Interestingly, the site also holds archaeological significance, as it was once home to Glasthule Battery, built around 1804-1805 as part of a network of fortifications protecting Dublin City.  

Evolution and Expansion

The turn of the 20th century ushered in a period of significant transformation for Dun Laoghaire Baths. In 1911, the baths underwent renovations and were renamed Kingstown Baths, eventually becoming Dun Laoghaire Baths. During this era, the Edwardian baths served as an urban spa, offering therapeutic health and relaxation benefits.  

The 1930s witnessed further expansion and modernisation. Three pools were added, along with changing rooms, a tearoom, a lounge, and a laundry. This architectural transformation reflected the changing trends in leisure and recreation, moving from the Victorian-era emphasis on private bathing to a more inclusive and modern approach. The baths also featured ‘slipper baths’ filled with hot sea water, catering to those seeking a more traditional bathing experience.  

However, this period was not without its challenges. In 1933, a storm caused significant damage to both Blackrock Baths and Dun Laoghaire Baths, necessitating extensive renovations and extensions. Despite these setbacks, the baths continued to thrive, becoming a popular destination for tourists and day-trippers, drawn by its comprehensive facilities and affordable prices.  

Closure and Redevelopment

Despite its popularity, Dun Laoghaire Baths eventually closed in the 1970s. Before falling into dereliction, the site was briefly used as ‘Rainbow Rapids’. The closure marked a period of decline for this once-vibrant landmark.  

However, the story of Dun Laoghaire Baths did not end there. In the late 1990s, efforts to revive the baths gained momentum. A voluntary community organisation, Save Our Seafront, was formed in 2002 with the aim of restoring the baths to their former glory. In 2005, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council proposed a €140 million development plan for the site, which included apartments, shops, restaurants, an indoor pool, and a maritime park. This plan, however, faced strong public opposition and was ultimately rejected by councillors.  

The redevelopment process was not without its hurdles. Delays and disagreements over the best approach to revitalising the baths prolonged the project. Nevertheless, in 2018, work finally commenced on the €9 million redevelopment of the site. As part of the redevelopment, several dilapidated buildings were demolished to allow sunlight to reach the main pavilion. To enhance the site’s resilience against coastal erosion, 600 tonnes of Cornish granite were deposited as part of additional rock armour protection measures. The project also received €1.1 million in grant funding from the European Regional Development Fund’s S&E Regional Programme 2014-20 “Designated Urban Centres Grant Scheme”.  

Facilities and Amenities

The newly reopened Dun Laoghaire Baths offer a range of facilities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. The refurbished baths pavilion houses artists’ studios, a gallery, a café, and public toilet facilities. A new 35m jetty with built-in seating extends into the sea, providing stunning views of Scotsman’s Bay. A simple changing shelter and a refurbished Edwardian gazebo in the beach garden further enhance the site’s appeal.  

Current Status

Dun Laoghaire Baths reopened to the public in December 2022, marking a significant milestone in the town’s history. The revitalised space has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, water sports, and attending events. The baths have also become a favourite spot for promenading, taking in the views from the jetty, and admiring the new Casement Memorial Statue.  

Accessibility has been a key consideration in the redevelopment project. A lift and stairs have been installed to provide access to the lower level, where artists’ studios and a communal exhibition space are located. However, some accessibility issues have been raised regarding the temporary ramps leading to the lower-level amphitheatre, which have been deemed too steep by wheelchair users.  

The project has prioritised sustainability by using materials that minimise its carbon footprint. Swimmers have two main points of entry to the water, ensuring safe and convenient access for all.  

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Dun Laoghaire Baths, it’s worth exploring the nearby National Maritime Museum of Ireland. Housed in a former Mariners’ Church, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s maritime heritage. Exhibits include a ship’s radio room, a Titanic exhibition, and relics from the RMS Leinster, a ship that sank nearby during World War I.  

Future Plans

The redevelopment of Dun Laoghaire Baths is an ongoing project. Phase 2, scheduled for completion in Q3 2024, will focus on improving universal access from Queen’s Road down to the new jetty. This phase will involve the construction of accessible ramps, steps, seating, and public lighting.  

Furthermore, a further €2.5 million has been allocated for additional improvements to the baths. There are also discussions about incorporating an open seawater pool in a future phase of development.  

Conclusion

Dun Laoghaire Baths have been an integral part of Dun Laoghaire’s history for almost two centuries. From their exclusive beginnings as a private bathing facility to their current status as a vibrant and inclusive public space, the baths have mirrored the town’s social and cultural evolution. The recent redevelopment, recognised with the prestigious AR public awards 2024 has breathed new life into this cherished landmark.  

Beyond their recreational function, the baths have served as a social hub, fostering community spirit and providing a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds. The ongoing development plans demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the baths remain a vital asset for generations to come.

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PHOTOGRAPHED ON THE FIRST DAY OF 2025

Happy New Year to everyone.

May the dawn of 2025 bring you new hope, joy, and countless opportunities. May each day be filled with happiness, success, and cherished moments with loved ones. Wishing you a prosperous and fulfilling year ahead!

On New Year’s Day 2025, my 75th birthday, my brother hosted a party at his home in Dalkey. After dinner, some of us walked from Dalkey towards Dun Laoghaire. I chose not to bring my camera, using my iPhone 12 Pro Max to capture the fading light and our journey.

This walk provided an opportunity to revisit Rachel Joynt’s captivating sculpture, Mothership, located in Newtownsmith, between Dun Laoghaire and Glasthule. I first photographed this piece in 2001. Though often referred to online as the “Sea Urchin Sculpture”, a plaque at the site correctly identifies it as Mothership by Rachel Joynt 1999.

Commissioned in 1998 through an open competition as part of the Dun Laoghaire Drainage Scheme’s Art Programme, Mothership has become a local landmark. Its scale and intriguing form invite interaction, with visitors frequently climbing within its shell-like structure.

Constructed from cast bronze and stainless steel, Mothership depicts a sea urchin seemingly caught in mid-motion, its trajectory marked by a trail of metallic silver droplets. This dynamic portrayal suggests the creature has been propelled onto the shore by a powerful wave, its momentum captured in the sculpture’s angled position and the scattered steel discs marking its path.

The artwork symbolises the cleaner waters achieved through the Dun Laoghaire Drainage Scheme. Interestingly, the sculpture’s diameter mirrors that of the pipes used in the scheme’s construction, creating a subtle link between the artwork and the infrastructure project it commemorates.

The sculpture’s placement allows viewers to look through its open form towards the sea, establishing a visual connection between the artwork, the surrounding landscape, and the ocean.

During a previous visit on 23rd July 2024, I photographed another nearby sculpture, Celebration, created by Rachel’s father, Dick Joynt, adding another layer of artistic interest to this coastal area.

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