Wingfield

Hidden in plain sight on William Street, Dublin, lies the grand Powerscourt Townhouse, also known as Wingfield. Ever wonder how a building could transition from a symbol of high society to a bustling shopping center? Powerscourt Townhouse, or Wingfield, was built between 1771 and 1774 for Richard, the 3rd Viscount Powerscourt. It was designed by Robert Mack. The cost was a mere £8,000, a surprisingly small sum for such an elegant structure. It was considered one of the top three most elegant houses in Dublin. The Wingfield family used it for a generation, enjoying the high society life of Ireland’s capital. A humorous anecdote tells of a land dispute between Lord Powerscourt and the owner across the street. Upon completion of Wingfield, the disgruntled neighbor supposedly declared his intent to spoil the view by leasing his land to fishmongers. And so, fishmongers’ shops lined the street opposite Wingfield, a stark contrast to its grandeur. These shops persisted even into the 20th century, eventually giving way to the modern supermarket that stands there today. Following the death of Richard, the 3rd Viscount, his son, also named Richard, inherited the title and Wingfield. Upon the Union of Ireland and England in 1801, the 4th Viscount sold Wingfield to the government. It then served as the office of the Stamp Commissioners. In 1835, the government sold Wingfield to the firm of Ferrier and Pollock. They maintained it impeccably for almost 150 years. Then, in 1981, Wingfield was purchased by Power Securities. They transformed it into the shopping center we see now. The courtyard at the back now houses a collection of upscale shops. The upper floors have been remarkably preserved. You can still admire the intricate carvings, moldings, plasterwork, and the magnificent mahogany staircase. This upper floor once housed the Solomon Gallery, showcasing the works of Polish artist Serge Mendjisky. While some paintings may have been sold, many remain for art enthusiasts to discover. So, as you stroll through Wingfield today, remember the layers of history it holds. From aristocratic gatherings to government offices to fishmongers’ stalls, Wingfield’s journey reflects Dublin’s ever-evolving story.