We are featured in The Independent July Issue!
We are delighted to have been featured in the Independent Ireland news for our new Hotel Keavan’s Port in Dublin.
“The UK chain JD Wetherspoon is known for its rock-bottom prices and unpretentious stylings — you’ll often find the pubs in historic buildings, and that’s the case with Keavan’s Port, its second hotel in Ireland (Swords Old Borough being the first). The group has pumped €33m into the refurbishment and renovation of several buildings on Camden Street, and it’s the historical element of the reboot that really blew me away. The restoration of the Georgian façade is remarkable, considering how grotty these unused buildings were before the transformation.
The layout is pretty cool, too — the hotel is made up of eight Georgian townhouses, a courtyard and a chapel, all of which are linked by a modern, light-filled atrium.”
“As you walk to the desk, you pass some of the restored stained glass windows which, until the hotel was refurbished, were boxed off from view entirely. Behind the reception desk, there’s an even more impressive piece — a restored, circular, stained glass window crafted by the building’s former occupants, Earley and Company. Historical features like this simply wouldn’t exist for the public to enjoy were the hotel not here.
All around the reception area, there are neat little rooms decked out in antique furniture — one has a working fireplace, and will be the perfect cosy hideaway come winter. While most people flock to the main dining areas, these little alcoves are a peaceful reprieve. “
“The interior atrium is a bit of a masterpiece. The combination of giant steel beams and the restored brickwork gives the whole thing a uniquely stylish, industrial-chic vibe. And the walls are all adorned with pieces by Irish artists, including a giant wire sculpture by Emma Jane Rushworth, inspired by the Seamus Heaney poem St Kevin and the Blackbird.
Upon walking through the main pub entrance, you pass through the courtyard to be met with a full chapel. Formerly home to the Little Sisters of Assumption, and more recently used as a boxing club, the space now serves as a fairly nifty dining area. “
“The restoration of beautiful Georgian architecture and precious stained glass pieces in Dublin in this way is something that can only be celebrated.”
– Nicola Brady
