Does design represent good value for money? Is it a luxury we do not have time for? What difference does design really make? As Ireland embarks on its most ambitious development plan in history, join us to discuss the role and value of design in our everyday lives.

Open Table 2025 empowers people to participate in expert-led discussions on the topics of Diaspora, Diversity, Design, Demolition and Democracy. 

Our first table will be hosted in the Irish language by Orla O’Kane and Iseult Kirwan. Iseult Kirwan is an Architect working for City Architects Division in Dublin City Council. Iseult’s work is mainly focused on the design and construction of social housing and area regeneration masterplanning in Dublin City. She previously worked on the design and construction of schools in various parts of Ireland for the Department of Education and Skills. Iseult has also worked for architectural practices in France and Australia and also holds a Bachelor of Arts from Trinity College Dublin in History of Art & Architecture and French.

Orla O’Kane is an architect working in practice with O’Mahony Pike Architects. Based between Dublin and Kerry she is a former President of the Architectural Association of Ireland, founder of the Ailtireachtúil Collective, producer and narrator of the Studio Sessions podcast, programming contributor to Architecture Kerry and winner of the RIAI Emerging Architect Award 2024.

Please note this Open Table will be hosted in the Irish Language. The Open Table series takes place at IAF House at Charlemont Square, Dublin 2. Places are limited so book early. Lunch will be provided.

Open Table events take place at IAF House, Charlemont Square, Dublin 2. This is a temporary use space and does not have direct access to toilet and washroom facilities inside the space. Participants and visitors have full use of toilets, including an accessible toilet, located in a separate adjoining building approximately 100 metres away in distance. The space and doorways open wide and the venue does not have any steps or stairs.

Please contact us at bookings@architecturefoundation.ie if you require ISL interpretation or have any access requirements.