Dublin Couple Transforms Shop Into Energy-Efficient Apartments

Converting commercial spaces into residential units is increasingly viewed as a potential remedy for the housing crisis. This approach was recently exemplified by Jas Rait and his wife, Tanya Comber, who transformed their premises on Camden Street in Dublin into three modern apartments. Their project aimed to provide much-needed housing while accommodating their cloud computing business.

The couple faced significant challenges during the renovation of their more than 200-year-old building. It lacked rear access, was surrounded by three neighboring properties, and the existing upstairs apartment was cold and poorly maintained. Despite these obstacles, they successfully created three bright, energy-efficient apartments, each featuring outdoor spaces.

Jas and Tanya initially rented the space for their computer business, Right Click, in 2001 and purchased the building a decade later. As their business expanded to include Right Cloud, which offers cloud services, they recognized the need to reconfigure their retail and office spaces for a better working environment. They also decided to undertake the challenge of renovating the upper floors.

Understanding the complexities of such a project, they sought professional advice. “We had architects, quantity surveyors, fire safety consultants, engineers, steel consultants – you have to have those people on board if you want to do a project like this,” Tanya explained. Their architect, Ken Meehan, brought experience from numerous conservation projects, providing reassurance throughout the process. Construction began in October 2024 and involved adding a four-storey extension and a new floor to the existing structure.

The completed apartments became available for rent in February and can accommodate a total of 14 residents. The previous apartment, which was in disrepair, has now been transformed into a spacious 3,000 sq ft three-bedroom unit. Additionally, there is a two-bedroom penthouse overlooking the city and a two-bedroom duplex apartment. Despite the bustling activity on the street below, the apartments are surprisingly quiet. “It’s actually really peaceful here, completely Zen,” Tanya remarked.

The couple prioritized creating livable spaces that they would be comfortable inhabiting themselves. “We wanted outdoor space and decent rooms. In the long run, I think it’s damaging for people if they don’t have access to outside,” Tanya emphasized. Each apartment features balconies, with the penthouse boasting the largest outdoor area.

The couple collaborated with local businesses for the renovation, sourcing distinctive kitchen designs from Garrett Dillon Kitchens and tiles from a nearby store. They opted against installing a heat pump due to space constraints, believing the apartments’ energy-efficient insulation would limit heating needs.

After 25 years on Camden Street, Jas and Tanya remain committed to the area and advocate for better incentives to encourage shop owners to convert empty spaces into homes. They took advantage of the government’s Living City initiative, which offers tax breaks for residential conversions. They received a maximum €200,000 tax break, though they noted it did not cover the full costs of their project. As of October, the maximum allowable relief has increased to €300,000.

Although the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has been enhanced to support conversions of above-shop spaces, the couple highlighted that the financial feasibility of such projects remains a concern. “The escalating price of materials and labour means that our project wouldn’t be viable if we were starting today,” Jas explained.

While their project illustrates the potential for high-quality, energy-efficient urban housing, they believe that small landlords need more encouragement to undertake similar initiatives. “Unfortunately, the sums don’t add up,” Jas added.

Despite the challenges, they are satisfied with the outcome, having secured the future of their building and contributed to alleviating rental property demand, even if just modestly. “We are here for good and we are not going anywhere,” Tanya concluded. “There is still a great sense of community here on the street, and we know so many people. We love this place.”