Architecture shapes Ireland’s EU Presidency vision
Ireland’s EU Presidency spotlighted architecture’s role in enhancing communities through public events and exhibitions. Hosted in Dublin, these initiatives showcased innovative design strategies and policy discussions aimed at enriching everyday life and future generations’ public spaces.
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Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 2 min read
A captivating series of architectural events took centre stage during Ireland’s 2026 EU Presidency, offering a platform to explore how thoughtful design enriches communities and everyday living. Organised by the Office of Public Works (OPW) in partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Irish Architecture Foundation, the programme was themed ‘Value for Many,’ emphasising architecture’s social and cultural significance.
Key among these were the European Conference on Architectural Policies (ECAP) and the DECA exhibition, both held at Áras Mhic Dhiarmada – Busáras in Dublin. The conference convened distinguished speakers such as Wivina Demeester-De Meyer, who reflected on her policy work in Flanders, and architect An Fonteyne, who shared insights on transforming Brussels’ KANAL into a pioneering cultural hub. These talks were complemented by vibrant discussions featuring notable figures including Robert Watt, Sinéad O’Sullivan, and Yvonne Farrell.
The DECA exhibition presented the work of ten influential architects practising and teaching in Ireland, addressing pressing challenges like climate change, evolving community needs, and heritage preservation. Open to the public without charge, the exhibition ran from 21 to 28 November 2026, inviting visitors to engage with contemporary Irish architecture’s role in shaping sustainable and inclusive spaces. Supported by the Department of Social Protection and Bus Éireann, the events reaffirmed architecture’s vital place within Ireland’s EU Presidency narrative and its ongoing legacy in public life.
Key among these were the European Conference on Architectural Policies (ECAP) and the DECA exhibition, both held at Áras Mhic Dhiarmada – Busáras in Dublin. The conference convened distinguished speakers such as Wivina Demeester-De Meyer, who reflected on her policy work in Flanders, and architect An Fonteyne, who shared insights on transforming Brussels’ KANAL into a pioneering cultural hub. These talks were complemented by vibrant discussions featuring notable figures including Robert Watt, Sinéad O’Sullivan, and Yvonne Farrell.
The DECA exhibition presented the work of ten influential architects practising and teaching in Ireland, addressing pressing challenges like climate change, evolving community needs, and heritage preservation. Open to the public without charge, the exhibition ran from 21 to 28 November 2026, inviting visitors to engage with contemporary Irish architecture’s role in shaping sustainable and inclusive spaces. Supported by the Department of Social Protection and Bus Éireann, the events reaffirmed architecture’s vital place within Ireland’s EU Presidency narrative and its ongoing legacy in public life.
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