A Love Letter To Portobello.

‘Portobello: The Desolation of a Social Hub and The Rejection of a Misunderstood Subculture' served as an in-depth exploration into the dynamics of Portobello plaza and its surrounding area. The series unfolded against the imminent change looming over the neighbourhoods public space - a plan to demolish the once-existing plaza and replace it with a hotel. The proposed hotel, with its considerable scale, posed a threat to the local community by overdeveloping the site. The public plaza, once a communal space, risked being transformed into a private courtyard for the hotel, further limiting the already restricted area available to the public. A 178-bed hotel would not only alter the landscape but also restrict locals and non-hotel patrons from engaging in the diverse activities that once thrived in this communal space.

Portobello had long been a vital hub for the Irish skateboarding scene, fostering harmony between skateboarders and local residents without immediate facilities for children. Despite a seemingly ineffective sign prohibiting skating in the plaza, it remained the most popular skateboarding spot in Dublin since its establishment in 2004 as an open space for the public. Approaching two decades of vibrant skateboarding culture, the community aimed to legitimise the use of the plaza, advocating with the council for reconsideration. The subculture attracted a diverse community, fostering social interaction in a public space. However, as of late, there has been no indication of revisiting the skating ban at Portobello.

The project unfolded amidst the transformative year of the global pandemic, where Portobello emerged as a microcosm reflecting issues with public space policies. Calls for public toilets, increased bins, and a community Garda presence went unanswered. Instead, large fences were erected, creating a sterile location that deterred people from frequenting the space. The rejection of a cherished space led to a turn away from Portobello, and if history repeats itself, the problems that led to its demise will resurface elsewhere.

'Portobello, The Desolation of a Social Hub and The Rejection of a Misunderstood Subculture' captures the essence of a community grappling with change, shedding light on the consequences of neglecting public spaces and dismissing subcultures that contribute to the vibrancy of urban life.