Going up . . . welcome to the new Hotel Ballymun
Guests on the 15th floor of Clarke Tower will be guaranteed a room with a view as they find themselves staying in the midst of a unique and historic project.
And spending a night in the skies of the northside suburb has already captured the imagination of excited guests who have been clamouring to book a room at the inn.
Hotel Ballymun was created by eco-artist Seamus Nolan, whose interest in reusing and recycling resources and materials has taken a new twist by using an actual building as the canvas.
He has been commissioned by Breaking Ground, the Ballymun Regeneration art scheme.
"This project is really attracting people from all over Ireland to come and stay," said Aisling Prior, Breaking Ground director.
"It is almost booked out already with people coming from Cork and Limerick. "It will be an historic opportunity for the visitors, as very shortly after the hotel ceases, the tower block will be demolished.
Built in the 1960s, the seven 15-storey towers were named after the heroes of the 1916 Rising, and housed thousands of Dublin families. In later years they became a haven for vandals.
As the regeneration of the area began apace, the towers were pulled down, with just three remaining standing.
Opening on March 23 for three and a half weeks, Hotel Ballymun recaptures the original architecture and decor. w Bookings are restricted to one night and are free but donations must be made to contribute to the running costs. The hotel will be openfrom 2pm to 5pm.
- Sarah Stack
