Lawler Consulting provided Mechanical & Electrical Building Services Engineering for the landmark deep retrofit of Tom Johnson House in Dublin – an OPW Public Sector Retrofit Pathfinder project transforming an existing 1970s office building into a highly efficient, fossil fuel-free workplace designed for long-term performance.
Originally constructed in 1973, Tom Johnson House was selected as the first State-owned Government workplace to undergo a comprehensive deep retrofit as part of Ireland’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Programme.
The ambition was clear: transform an ageing office building into a modern, high-performance workplace while dramatically reducing energy consumption, carbon emissions and operational costs.
Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, the project focused on retaining and upgrading the existing structure, preserving embodied carbon and demonstrating how existing buildings can play a central role in Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future.
Today, the building serves as the headquarters of the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and accommodates the National Cyber Security Centre.
Lawler Consulting was appointed as Engineer of Record, responsible for delivering an integrated building services strategy aligned with the Office of Public Works’ decarbonisation objectives.
Working closely with the wider design team, our approach focused on creating an all-electric building supported by highly efficient mechanical and electrical systems while maximising the value of the existing asset.
Key elements of the strategy included:
Particular emphasis was placed on balancing energy performance, occupant wellbeing and long-term operational resilience.
From deep retrofit and decarbonisation programmes to complex commercial developments, Lawler Consulting delivers building services engineering that supports performance, efficiency and long-term value.
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