A major conservation and restoration project is underway at RCSI’s historic home at 123 St Stephen’s Green, marking a once-in-a-generation effort to safeguard one of Dublin city centre’s most significant buildings for the future.

Specialist conservation teams have been carrying out the careful decanting and protection of historically significant portraits, sculptures and artefacts housed within the building, ahead of restoration works progressing.

The controlled decanting process involves detailed inventory tracking, specialist art handlers, and protective wrapping and transport methods to ensure the safe relocation of sensitive heritage items. Among the first visible milestones has been the removal of the iconic clock from the building’s façade which will undergo expert conservation before being reinstated as part of the wider restoration programme.

RCSI has signed a contract with Murcom Building Services Ltd to manage the restoration and conservation.

The project will preserve and protect the architectural, cultural and educational legacy of this Dublin city landmark while ensuring the building remains fit for future generations of students, researchers, clinicians and staff.

Established in 1784, RCSI has occupied the St Stephen’s Green site since 1810, with the building evolving over more than two centuries alongside advances in medicine, surgery and healthcare education. Facing onto one of Dublin’s most well-known public parks, the building has played a central role in the civic and cultural life of the city and has witnessed significant moments in Irish history, including the Easter Rising of 1916.

The restoration project will involve specialist expertise across every aspect of the building’s historic fabric, from original stonework and period interiors to important collections and decorative features. Key conservation works will include roof slate replacement using traditional like-for-like materials, restoration of historic sash windows, localised stone and façade repairs, and structural conservation interventions.

The project is being delivered by a multidisciplinary team including conservation architects, engineers and heritage consultants, working closely with traditional specialist craftspeople to ensure best practice conservation standards are upheld throughout retaining the integrity and character of the building.

Professor Cathal Kelly, RCSI Vice Chancellor, said: “123 St Stephen’s Green is far more than a building, it is a place deeply connected to the history of medicine, education and public life in Ireland. For generations, the people that have passed through its doors have gone on to make a profound impact around the world.

“Preserving this historic building is about protecting that legacy while ensuring it continues to inspire future generations. This restoration project reflects RCSI’s commitment to honouring our heritage alongside our ambition to continue advancing healthcare education, research and patient care for the future.”

Following decanting and enabling works, the main conservation and construction phase is continuing and is expected to take approximately two years to complete.