LIDL DRUMCONDRA
| PROJECT BRIEF
SDS performed the role of architect, engineer and assigned certifier on this modern architectural building in the heart of Drumcondra in North Dublin. The project involved the regeneration of a brownfield site which was formally a car garage and adjoining creche. The architectural design of the building was adapted to fit the local venacular of the street. The building includes a new Lidl store at first floor level and a retail unit and large cafe at ground floor level.
Large windows on the street elevation and high level exposed painted steel roof beams create a bright and open space.
| TECHNICAL CHALLENGES
The design brief for the proposed new store was to create a contemporary new building that was keeping with the surrounding areas. The internal design of the store is continuously changing to meet the demands of the modern customer. This resulted in the need for large 25m clear spans in the shopping area to allow for a better flow throughout. The clear span in the sales area has painted steel beams, which add simplicity to the roof design. The programme of works required a different approach to traditional construction methods. The construction of the building consisted of a structural steel frame, a concrete block wall system and columns, in conjunction with a specially designed steel roof. These elements had to be fully co-ordinated and fabricated off site to minimise the construction period of the store.
| MATERIALS
The specific requirements for the store in Drumcondra and the local vernacular required the use of dark brick which is sympathetic to the local area and in keeping with local adjoining building design.
The new concept store incorporates the following high quality materials and equipment:
– Large steel beams span the building providing uninterrupted spaces.
– Full height front glazing travelator from ground floor to first floor.
– Muted colour schemes and high quality finishes create an enhanced shopping experience.
– Exposed services are kept to a minimum and cleverly concealed.
– New chiller and freezer cells ensure that the highest quality of products is offered to customers, whilst optimising delivery schedules.
| SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability was at the forefront of the design process from the outset and was considered at every point throughout the project. The new Drumcondra store incorporates a range of strategies to reduce environmental impact. It is powered by green electricity and has been built to be certified to ISO50001 energy efficiency standards. The store also offers customers free use of a number of electric vehicle charging points.
Lidl is the largest provider of electric vehicle chargers in the Irish supermarket sector, enabling customers to charge their electric vehicles free of charge whilst they shop.
The store also incorporates the following sustainable features:
– Maximises natural lighting through glazing and high level windows.
– Efficient LED dimmable and presence activated lighting.
– Energy efficient heating system with recovery wheels.
Testimonials
Our clients are in public and private sectors, including government bodies, developers, main contractors and owners. Market areas in which we currently work are commercial, residential, industrial, hotel and leisure, education, and water engineering.
