Charles Street House

Charles Street House, in the heart of Georgian Dublin, off Moutjoy Square, comprised two complementary packages delivered concurrently: a bespoke balcony package and a comprehensive architectural metalwork package. Together they showcase Coughlan Engineering's complete in-house capability, from site survey, BIM coordination, structural design and engineering calculations through to fabrication, lifting operations and installation.

The project required extensive collaboration with the architect, design team, principal contractor and specialist subcontractors. We contributed directly to the client's BIM model, enabling efficient coordination across multiple trades and helping to resolve interfaces before construction. We also worked closely with fellow Irish Steel member Shevlin Engineering, developing a bespoke box-out detail that seamlessly integrated our balcony railings and soffit panels with their primary structural steel pedestrian bridge, delivering a unified architectural finish.

The balcony package is distinguished by its bold architectural expression. Large cantilevered balconies feature an unusual stepped-height privacy balustrade. Despite their substantial appearance, the assemblies were carefully engineered for efficient manufacture and installation. Rainwater downpipes and drainage channels were discreetly integrated within the balcony chassis, preserving the clean architectural language.

Running alongside the balcony package was an extensive architectural metalwork contract including recessed balcony balustrades, designed to be sensitive to the Georgian design language of the locality. Also included were ground-floor terrace railings with individual access gates, automated courtyard gates, communal internal stair balustrades, external staircases and handrails. Materials included hot-dip galvanised and powder-coated steel, aluminium, stainless steel and structural glass, selected to achieve durability while maintaining a refined contemporary appearance.

The principal challenge was coordinating numerous bespoke systems into a cohesive whole. Several elements had unique fixing requirements and interfaces, making consistent alignment, clean detailing and a common architectural language throughout the development quite challenging. Particular attention was given to concealed fixings, fine tolerances and the visual relationship between adjoining components.

The completed project demonstrates how careful engineering and fabrication can elevate residential architecture. Robust structural design is combined with restrained detailing to create steelwork that feels elegant rather than imposing, while remaining durable and practical to maintain. Delivered safely and within budget, Charles Street House is a strong example of integrated design, collaborative delivery and the versatility of modern architectural steelwork.