Design team appointed to progress redevelopment of Fireplace site in Limerick

A DESIGN team has been appointed to develop a new design and innovation hub at the Fireplace site in Limerick city centre.

DHB Architects of Waterford has been contracted following a tender process.

It marks the start of a major project designed to cut the number of empty units and generate footfall in Nicholas Street, whose star attraction is King John’s Castle.

READ MORE: Limerick's Troy Studios in line to become Ireland's reality television hub

After councillors approved development, construction of the building, to be known as The Forge Design Factory, is expected to commence at the end of this year.

The buildings will see a design hub, with artists’ studios, workspaces, a retail area, an exhibition space, cafe/restaurant and an outdoor area with views of the River Shannon and St Mary’s Cathedral.

Demolition of buildings in the 1990s revealed the historic stone wall situated between what were two medieval stone houses. It contained a fireplace, giving rise to the area’s unique name.

The new structure will incorporate these extremely historic walls.

Mayor John Moran said: “We promised to make 2026 a year of momentum delivered on the foundations laid in 2025. I welcome this significant step forward in delivering The Forge Design Factory. This transformative project will act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of King’s Island and Nicholas Street, helped by the new public realm proposals we have been pursuing in parallel for the street.”

Príomh-chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery added: “The enhancement of Nicholas Street and preservation of the historic Fireplace Site is something local residents, business and councillors have long called for. This development will achieve both these aims, while also opening doors for creativity, jobs and community connection in the heart of Limerick’s Medieval Quarter.”