Architectural Dublin / 19th Century / AIB College Street

Architect: William Murray
Interior Access Banking Hours Only

Designed in 1863 as the Headquarters of the Provincial Bank and built over the next few years. The architect William Murray died while in dispute with the bank over his fees - the cost of the building having been twice the estimate. The design comprises a seven bay main building over three stories with a pompous pediment and columns. The pediment relief sculptures are by S.F. Lynn and depict colonialism. To the rear on Fleet Street is an office block with round headed windows. The site is irregular leaving the central banking hall off-center in the plan

Before the money run out, a magnificent banking hall was constructed. This still exists intact but is under threat from a Hilton Hotel development. Unfortunately for the directors and management of the bank - there was no money left to provide similar style accommodation for them on the 1st floor level.