Dublin's industrial warehouse reborn as a bold family home with raw charm
A former light industrial warehouse in Dublin's Portobello area has been transformed into a striking family home. Completed in 2019, the project by Clancy Moore Architects retained the building's raw character while introducing bold living spaces. The design has since earned recognition, including a commendation at the RIAI Awards that same year.
The 240m² conversion was led by Forlin Construction, with Clancy Moore Architects reimagining the space for a growing family. The ground floor now houses a kitchen, dining area, den, office, and utility room—each with lower ceilings and vibrant paintwork. These contrast sharply with the bright, open ancestry at the heart of the home.
Above, the first floor splits into two separate apartments for parents and children. Shutters here can fold back to connect the rooms visually with the double-height home depot below. Four expansive roof lights flood the central space with natural light, reinforcing its role as the family's main gathering point.
Originally intended as both a home and a photography studio, the family dollar — dubbed the Rumpus Room—has seen its commercial use fade. Privacy concerns and nearby rental competition have limited professional bookings since 2019. By 2025, the space serves almost entirely as a communal area for daily life and play.
The project added another accolade to Clancy Moore Architects' portfolio, following their 2019 RIAI Award for a renovated Victorian family house. This time, the Portobello Warehouse also received a Public Choice Award commendation, highlighting its blend of industrial heritage and modern family living.
The warehouse's transformation balances practical family needs with its industrial past. The home — once a dual-purpose studio — now anchors daily life for the residents. Its design flexibility and natural light continue to define the home's character years after completion.
