The Georgian Doors of Dublin can be traced back to the 1700s, when the old medieval city began growing and becoming quite prosperous. Rapid expansion led to remodeling of the city’s streets and squares, and a need to develop outside the city center — especially to create residential areas.
This building boom was carefully controlled however, and each developer was given strict structural and design restrictions for their buildings. The resulting style (and time period) has come to be known as Georgian Dublin — named for the four kings that ruled during the period (Kings George I-IV; 1714-1830).
To break from the strict architectural uniformity, residents started adding their own individual touches to set their houses apart from others. These included fancy knockers, intricate designs or fanlights above the door, and most noticeably, front doors painted in varying colors.
You can see these vibrant, historical displays of architecture throughout the city, but the best examples can be seen in areas such as Leeson Street, where I stayed while in Dublin. As a history lover and someone who just likes pretty colors (it’s the simple things in life, really) seeing these doors was an added bonus to our walks through the city.
Sources (also recommended for further reading on Georgian Dublin and Architecture): Visit Dublin, Irish Culture and Customs, and CIEE
4 Comments
Erica
April 12, 2012 at 12:45That’s so cool!! I love how you add historical background into your posts. Makes me feel smarter after reading them. I finally know what’s up with all the bejeweled doors!
Christy & Kali (@Technosyncratic)
April 14, 2012 at 19:50How cute! I like the cheery yellow ones next to each other. :)
yili
April 16, 2012 at 21:44Je suis tellement contente d’avoir trouvé ton blog à travers Lost In Cheeseland, c’est un vrai petit bijou! Can’t wait to read all your upcoming adventures in Europe, and I’m sure it will motivate me to quit my job and do the same!! What kind of job are you doing in Paris right now if I may ask? I’m Canadian and even though I’m bilingual, I haven’t gotten one single positive reply from French companies for an eventual job… Well it’s very encouraging to see someone who has succeeded!! Keep it up !
Two Days in Dublin | Expat Edna
April 30, 2012 at 12:14[…] Doors The Georgian Doors of Dublin originate from the 1700s, when residents painted their doors vibrant colors and added intricate designs to their houses to rebel against the strict architectural restrictions […]