“Unconventional Dublin” is how some people describe this place. We are standing in front of The Convention Centre Dublin. It is Ireland’s first purpose-built convention venue. But there is so much more to it than just that.
The Convention Centre Dublin overlooks the River Liffey at Spencer Dock. This building stands as a testament to modern architecture and Dublin’s ambition as a premier destination. The Convention Centre Dublin, or CCD as it is commonly known, was designed by the Irish-born American architect Kevin Roche.
The story of The Convention Centre Dublin begins long before its doors opened in September 2010. The Irish government planned a National Convention Centre in 1995. But the plan was initially abandoned. In 1997, a new competition was launched to construct the conference centre. Treasury Holdings, with Johnny Ronan and Richard Barrett, won the competition. Their plan included locating the project at Spencer Dock. Developer Harry Crosbie was also part of this winning team.
Construction commenced in 1998. However, it faced delays due to a legal dispute. Finally, after many years, The Convention Centre Dublin was completed. Sisk was awarded the contract to build the centre in March 1999. The cost was £104 million.
The Convention Centre Dublin is iconic for its architectural innovations. Its glass frontage and curved walls are particularly noteworthy. The building can accommodate up to 8,000 people. It has 22 meeting rooms. These include a 2,000-seat auditorium and a 4,500 square metre exhibition space.
Notably, The Convention Centre Dublin is the first carbon-neutral convention centre in the world. This is achieved through low-carbon cement and offsetting unavoidable emissions. The centre also uses a thermal-wheel heat-recovery system and an ice-storage thermal unit.
The CCD has received acclaim. It won silver in the “Best Overseas Conference Centre” category at the M&IT Industry Awards 2011.
An interesting fact: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dáil Éireann temporarily convened here from June 2020. This was to ensure social distancing. On 27 June 2020, Mícheál Martin was elected Taoiseach in the Auditorium of The Convention Centre Dublin. This marked the first time such an election took place outside Parliament buildings.
In 2012, the Spencer Dock Development Company faced liquidation. Later, the Irish Infrastructure Fund acquired the business. In June 2023, the John Laing Group purchased the business.
The Convention Centre Dublin is more than just a venue. It’s a symbol of Dublin’s innovation. It contributes significantly to the Irish economy. It attracts thousands of international delegates annually. The CCD is set to meet its international delegate targets for the coming years. It brings in between €25m and €50m of foreign revenue annually.
From brand identity to marketing materials, Principle has played a key role in enhancing the CCD’s image. The brand mark acknowledges the building’s form and complements its architectural attributes.
So, as we stand here, remember that you’re not just looking at a building. You are experiencing a place where ideas converge. It is a place where history has been made and a testament to Dublin’s place on the world stage.