Sandymount Avenue Residential Development

The Sandymount Place balcony and balustrade project is an outstanding example of how steel can be utilised to overcome complex structural, architectural, and programme challenges while delivering a high-quality finished product. What sets this project apart is not simply the successful delivery of 42 balconies across two residential blocks, but the innovative engineering, adaptability, and collaboration required to achieve the architect's vision within a demanding construction environment.

From the outset, the project presented significant technical challenges. Although Blocks 1 and 2 were constructed concurrently, each block featured a different structural floor construction. Block 1 comprised hollow core slabs with a screed build-up, while Block 2 utilised in-situ reinforced concrete slabs. This required the development of two entirely separate balcony support and connection designs within a single project. Maintaining a consistent architectural appearance across both blocks while accommodating these differing structural conditions demanded a high level of engineering expertise and detailed coordination.

The project was delivered within a tight construction programme, requiring the design, manufacture, and installation teams to work closely with the main contractor and other project stakeholders. The successful integration of two distinct balcony systems without impacting the overall programme demonstrates the flexibility and efficiency that steel construction can provide when supported by strong project management and technical expertise.

The architectural complexity of the scheme further distinguishes it from typical balcony projects. Block 2 incorporated two sawtooth balconies with projections of up to 2.6 metres. Their irregular geometry required bespoke steelwork design, careful load assessment, specialist fabrication, and precise installation. These balconies became defining architectural features of the development and showcased the versatility of steel in achieving complex forms that would be difficult to realise using alternative construction methods.

Additional challenges arose through the inclusion of integrated privacy screens, upper-floor terrace screening, and glass balustrades throughout the development. The project also included ground-floor glass balustrades serving terrace and communal areas, ensuring a consistent and high-quality visual appearance across the entire scheme. The integration of these elements required careful coordination between structural, architectural, and installation requirements while maintaining compliance with all safety and performance standards.

One of the most notable examples of innovation on the project was the bespoke balcony located within an alcove. This unique arrangement combined a paved concrete terrace with a cantilevered balcony section, requiring specially designed offset support stubs to achieve alignment and continuity across the differing construction elements. The successful resolution of this challenge demonstrated the adaptability of steel and the problem-solving capabilities of the project team.

Ultimately, Sandymount Place exemplifies the strengths of modern steel construction: precision engineering, design flexibility, programme efficiency, and the ability to deliver bespoke solutions to complex challenges. The project successfully balanced architectural ambition with technical excellence, resulting in a visually striking and highly functional development. It is this combination of innovation, craftsmanship, collaboration, and engineering achievement that makes Sandymount Place worthy of recognition the Irish Steel Awards 2026.

Here’s what the Main Contractor – M&P Construction said:

M&P Construction would like to express our satisfaction with Arc Engineering’s performance on our recent projects in Raheny Dublin 6 and Sandymount Dublin 4. We have found Arc Engineering to be an excellent partner and sub-contractor for the provision of metal and glazed balconies to both developments.

From tendering, design, manufacturing, installation on site through to the snagging process, we find Arc to be engaging and co-operative to all our needs. Arc produced first class products which were competitive and completed to a high standard for both projects. Their works were completed on programme and the design team and client were delighted with the standard of finish.

We would highly recommend Arc Engineering and we are currently engaging with them for further similar projects and we look forward to working with them for years to come.