Grand Canal Harbour

Project Description

Grand Canal Harbour is a landmark residential and commercial development located in the heart of a historic dockyard. The project consists of 596 modern units, spread across six blocks ranging from three to thirteen storeys. The development includes over 7,000m² of resident amenities such as cafes, a fitness centre, and landscaped rooftop communal spaces.

At its core, the development is designed to be energy-efficient and sustainable, featuring a 5,500m² single-level basement that houses Power and Energy Centres, which serve 482 one-bedroom and 114 two-bedroom homes, collectively achieving an A3 Building Energy Rating (BER). The Grand Canal Harbour also incorporates the restoration of a 18th-century Protected Structure, which has been repurposed to house commercial spaces while preserving its historical significance.

Ethos Input

Ethos played a key role in the project’s Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) design, ensuring that the entire complex runs on sustainable, energy-efficient systems. Ethos integrated state-of-the art technologies like Air Source Heat Pumps and Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems to reduce operational costs and minimise the environmental impact.

Ethos also designed a district heating system that optimises energy usage by accounting for varied heating needs across the units.In the amenities spaces, Ethos implemented high efficiency Heat Recovery Units and individualised air conditioning systems. Their input extended to the lighting, where they provided energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing solutions that complemented the architectural vision of the project.

Ethos also acted as Sustainability Consultants for this development, working closely with the client to achieve HPI certification.

Unique Key Features

Sustainability: Achieved 100% Home Performance Index (HPI) certification across all residential units, making it Ireland’s largest ever residential scheme to earn this prestigious sustainability rating.

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability: The design includes Air Source Heat Pumps and CHP systems to provide energy-efficient heating and electricity generation, resulting in reduced operational costs and environmental impact.

District Heating System: Ethos designed a diversified district heating system that recognises that not all units require peak heating at the same time, allowing for a lower overall capacity and improved energy performance.

Historical Preservation: The restoration of the 18th-century Protected Structure, the Harbour Warehouse, adds a historical dimension to the development. This iconic building now houses a medical centre, café, retail units, and co-working spaces, seamlessly integrating modern functionality with its industrial heritage.

Fitness Centre Innovation: Ethos employed creative design solutions for the fitness centre, overcoming headroom constraints by strategically routing cables and ducts while maintaining an open and unobstructed space.

Public Plaza & Water Feature: The central Plaza, linking the new residential development to the protected structure, serves as a versatile space for outdoor markets and events, featuring a water element that reflects the site’s maritime history.