In more recent times, the property was acquired for €10 million at the height of the last boom by the late publican and hotelier Hugh O’Regan. A talented entrepreneur and business visionary, O’Regan spent nearly as much again on upgrading the building with a view to bringing it back into use as a club for “young and emerging businessmen and women”. That ambition came to an end with the property crash. Number 8 was sold for €7.
The building underwent a major renovation in 2013 with the entire space being restored to provide a stunning combination of its original period detail and contemporary luxury. Today, the property extends to a total of 2,640sq m of lift-serviced space comprising open-plan and private office accommodation, along with a dedicated gym space, showers and a large outdoor terrace.
Number 8 St Stephen’s Green is zoned Z5 under the Dublin City Development Plan 2016-2022, which provides for a wide range of uses subject to planning permission. Interestingly, this zoning would allow for the building to be converted for use as a hotel. The sale of the property, may for that reason, attract the interest of hotel investors and operators looking to open for business in what is arguably the city’s foremost location.
Aisling Tannam, who is handling the sale of behalf of Cushman & Wakefield, says: “Number 8 St Stephen’s Green is a truly magnificent building, presented in immaculate condition and located at the best address in the city overlooking St Stephen’s Green park.”