The tallest occupied structure in Ireland is the IAA Vertical Control Tower designed by Scott Tallon Walker Architects. It encapsulates the heroic symbolism of many aviation buildings. The tower stands at 87.7m over the surrounding hinterland. Its profile is slender with an occupied control center at the top. The structure is reminiscent of the many emblematic aviation buildings. The original Dublin Airport buildings designed in the 1930’s by Desmond FitzGerald. It is designed as a curved building with tiered floor levels is reminiscent of ocean liners, the design conveys the excitement and luxury of flight in the thirties and forties.

Many airport buildings romanticize flight and travel. The architecture of flight symbolizes technological advancement. Think of Eero Saarinens 1962 TWA Flight Centre in New York. Saarinens’ building pioneers the use of thin shell concrete construction. The roof mirrors a wing profile. The message is clear, technology conquers all. Norman Fosters Stansted airport is another example. Stansted is masterpiece of rigorous architectural logic. Every component delivers an automated solution to enable huge numbers of people travel with belongs to every corner of the globe.

The vertical control tower continues in that tradition. It is a white shining torch to greet visitors.

The simple architectural expression masks quite complex engineering. Arup Structural engineers provided the engineering design for the project. The tower used a tuned mass damper reduce the sway in the structure. The damper is, in essence, like a pendulum. The natural sway of the building due to wind is counteracted by the damper. The damper allows the structure to remain slender, elegant and stable.

From a photographic stance the project required planning and a knowledge of airport operations. This experience had been gained from working with the Dublin Airport Authority and other organizations with specialist security and health and safety requirements.

The project has deservedly won numerous awards and is a significant addition to the landscape of Dublin.