Ellis Court, located on Benburb Street at Collins Barracks, is one of Dublin’s earliest purpose-built social housing schemes. Built between 1885 and 1888 as part of Dublin Corporation’s first public housing programme and designed by Daniel J. Freeman, it remains a rare and significant example of early artisan dwellings. Following years of deterioration and the impact of fires in 2005, Ellis Court has recently undergone sensitive restoration, bringing new life to a historic housing scheme while preserving its character. The design intent sought to promote best conservation practice, while also implementing sustainable interventions. While the buildings are not registered as protected structures, they are rated by the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) using the current criteria, as being of ‘Regional’ importance by virtue of the buildings being representative of late nineteenth century public housing, and so retain social significance due to architectural, historic and social values. The design solution sought to retain the building’s features of significance, while upgrading the layouts and fabric of the dwellings to comply with current housing standards.

This public storytelling and heritage project in Collins Barracks traces the full continuum of Ellis Court from 19th-century tenement life, through decline and loss, to its careful regeneration and vibrant community today. Uncover the lives, struggles and transformation of a historic Dublin social housing scheme, shaped by 140 years of social change. In recent years, Tuath Housing Association, in partnership with COADY Architects and Dublin City Council, led the sensitive restoration of the buildings, preserving their historic fabric while delivering 22 high-quality homes in the city centre.

Through architectural drawings, renderings, maps, and archival photographs, this project examines the preservation and transformation of Ellis Court, emphasising its architectural heritage alongside its recent refurbishment.

Meeting Point: Reception/Exhibition Space, Collins Barracks, Benburb St, Stoneybatter, Dublin, D07 XKV4

Drop-in

The event is held in the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks.  They provide:

Facilities for people with mobility impairment

All galleries in Collins Barracks are fully accessible. The site has three lifts, located in the east corner servicing floors one to three of the decorative arts section of the museum. There are two lifts in the Soldiers and Chiefs exhibition.

Accessible toilets are located in the main reception, the ground floor of the Soldiers and Chiefs Exhibition, and in the Riding School (temporary gallery).

Mobile stools are available upon request from the Reception Desk.

Wheelchairs are available from the Reception Desk on request. Please call ahead to reserve one on +353 1 6777444.

There are seating areas available in the majority of galleries.

Facilities for people with visual impairment

Guide and Assistance Dogs are welcome.

Please note that lighting in some exhibitions is low to address conservation concerns around certain artefacts.

There are touchable exhibits within the Museum. Please ask a staff member or attendant to help you locate these in the Museum.

Download our Visual Guide and Sensory Map to help you navigate the Museum and know what to expect in the gallery spaces

Facilities for people with hearing impairment

Irish Sign Language events at the National Museum of Ireland

Visual Guide and Sensory Map

Download a Visual Guide to help you plan your visit.

Download a Sensory Map  of the Museum.