Wren Urban Nest
- Location
- Dublin, Ireland
- Client
- Appalachian Property Holdings Ltd
- Expertise
- Architecture
- Building Services Engineering
- Civil & Structural Engineering
- Lighting
- Acoustics
- Completion
- 2021
- Size
- 4,787 sq m
- Cost
- £18m
Wren Urban Nest is a small but clever hotel with an design that creates 137 rooms in the heart of Dublin, offering a unique blend of luxury and sustainability. The building is designed and built using the most advanced carbon reduction technologies, making it one of Europe’s most sustainable hotels in a major city centre.
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Tucked into a quiet enclave of the bustling city centre, this small but clever hotel boasts compact, cosy rooms that prioritise both comfort and eco-conscious living. The Wren operates entirely on renewable electricity, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. This makes it the first hotel in Ireland to meet the World Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Operational standards.
The design of the hotel was driven by a clever use of space and smart technology. With rooms smaller than typical hotel sizes, the focus is on creating an intimate, luxurious experience that doesn’t compromise on environmental responsibility. Irish craftsmanship is showcased throughout, from the décor to the accessories, giving guests a sense of place and local culture while maintaining an eco-friendly ethos.
“The architectural design meets the demands of a tight urban space whilst ensuring glazing and facade options reduce energy loss. The building services we installed only seek to provide the most sustainable methods of staying in and managing a hotel. Everything related to the design and operation of Wren Urban Nest aims to reduce, reuse or recycle energy in the most efficient way. It really is a great example of what can be achieved in the hospitality industry and in major conurbations. We are sure it will be a great success. ”
Energy efficiency is central to Wren Urban Nest’s operations. The hotel utilises highly efficient air source and water-to-water heat pumps to manage heating, cooling, and hot water needs. An innovative ventilation system captures heat from outgoing air and uses it to warm fresh air, significantly reducing energy consumption.
Additionally, the facade’s glazing and thermal design help balance heating and cooling loads throughout the day, further minimising energy use. The hotel’s water demand is also notably lower than average, thanks to conservation measures and rainwater harvesting. The inclusion of a green roof not only supports biodiversity but also aids in natural cooling, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Beyond the building’s physical features, Wren Urban Nest remains committed to sustainability in its day-to-day operations. The kitchen operates without gas, and surplus food is redistributed to the community via the ‘Too Good to Go’ app. This holistic approach to sustainability, from construction to daily function, positions Wren Urban Nest as a leader in eco-friendly hospitality in Europe. The Wren Urban nest is a thoughtful, innovative retreat in Dublin that allows guests to experience luxury with a clear conscience, blending compact design, Irish charm, and cutting-edge sustainability.
“The unique architectural design of the hotel is a testament to our wonderful collaborators at BDP. We couldn’t be more excited to have Wren Urban Nest open.
We are passionate about the environment and believe in taking little steps towards a better planet. Our guests can expect bags of personality and a bespoke Dublin city experience that does not compromise on luxury while still doing their bit.”
