Deady Gahan Architects has moved its headquarters from Little Island to MacCurtain Street’s Thompson House, a historic former bakery in Cork’s rapidly evolving Victorian Quarter.

The firm, led by directors David Deady and Eamonn Gahan, occupied offices in Little Island for 20 years. The pandemic and social distancing created operational challenges, forcing the practice to lease an additional space.

Deady explained, “It was like having two offices and we really wanted to get everyone back together because bouncing ideas off each other is an essential part of architectural practice.”

Thompson House, originally F. H. Thompson & Son Bakery, closed in 1985 after nearly 160 years in business. Recent upgrade and conversion works were overseen by architect John Hegarty of Fourem, while the late Frank Murphy designed the distinctive glass curtain wall extension in the late 1960s.

“The double height space and nice stone walls made the jump worthwhile,” said Mr Deady. “It’s great to be all back together again. A lot of our 27 staff are young and come from cities around the world, so being in the city is a more attractive location for them to work in.”

Deady Gahan’s lease was negotiated by Amanda Isherwood of Sherry FitzGerald. The firm’s office occupies 3,200 sq ft at an annual rent of approximately €80,000 (€23 per sq ft). The building is fully let, with Marriott International occupying the top two floors (40,000 sq ft) and other tenants including solicitors JRAP.

MacCurtain Street has seen significant public realm investments by Cork City Council, alongside nearby upgrades at the Metropole Hotel. Further development is expected with a 170-bed Premier Inn planned at the intersection of MacCurtain Street and Brian Boru Street.

Discover the full story behind Deady Gahan’s strategic move and heritage restoration in Cork.