Ireland’s largest healthcare project, Dublin’s New Children’s Hospital will unite Crumlin, Temple Street and Tallaght into one world-class paediatric centre.

The New Children’s Hospital, located at the west end of the St. James Hospital campus in Dublin, is Ireland’s largest healthcare project. It will bring together the three existing children’s hospitals at Crumlin, Temple Street, and Tallaght, creating a single, world-class paediatric care facility.

At the heart of the design is an oval ward pavilion, surrounded by one of Europe’s largest rooftop gardens. This "floating garden" elevates the therapeutic benefits of nature, creating a welcoming and distinctive identity for the hospital. The ward pavilion’s form reflects Dublin’s architectural heritage, aligning with iconic landmarks like the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and Phoenix Park, while providing patients and families with sweeping views of the city’s green spaces.

In addition to its thoughtful design, the hospital will feature 384 inpatient beds, 14 theatres, an emergency department, and a cutting-edge research and innovation centre. Natural ventilation in the inpatient rooms reduces energy consumption, supporting the hospital’s goal of achieving an A3 Building Energy Rating and aligning with the UKGBC Advancing Net Zero Framework.

The hospital’s extensive landscaping includes gardens and terraces, such as the enclosed Rainbow Garden, which offers a safe, sensory-rich space for play, learning, and respite. These outdoor areas are designed to reduce stress and enhance well-being for patients, visitors, and staff alike.

Sustainability is integral to the project. The building incorporates natural ventilation, energy-efficient design, and Passivhaus-level insulation, contributing to its BREEAM Excellent certification. Prefabricated elements, such as bathroom pods and unitised façades, streamlined construction while maintaining high standards.

Digital technology played a vital role in delivering this complex project. A full BIM model facilitated efficient design coordination, while tablet-based quality inspections ensured compliance with Irish Building Control regulations.

Scheduled to open in 2026, this inspirational project represents a transformative step forward for children’s healthcare in Ireland. By prioritising clinical excellence, innovative design, and sustainability, the New Children’s Hospital provides a space that is functional and uplifting, place where young patients can receive the world-class care they deserve.

“This breath taking design does its job really well. It’s clear from the open-plan building, the gardens, the sports facilities, and the state-of-the-art wards that this is a unique building”.
Leo Varadkar, Former Taoiseach of the Republic of Ireland