The Crawford Art Gallery renovation has uncovered some cool hidden items
It’s the biggest development the building has ever seen.
So, eight months into construction, it’s no surprise that Cork’s beloved Crawford Art Gallery is turning up some surprises.
The team officially moved out of the building in January 2026, handing over the site to PJ Hegarty & Sons, and the OPW.
“Much preparation was done by all parties, but nothing prepares one for opening up a historic building and the surprises it will bring,” said Mary McCarthy, Director of Crawford Art Gallery.
“Fortunately, to date the reveals have been welcome: from old library tickets and summons letters found under floors, to parking tickets, many cigarette packs, match boxes, and additional historic fireplaces found hidden under panelling.
“These are all being carefully protected and documented. Among the most fascinating discoveries are the markings left by generations of craftsmen on the building’s timber structures. These are also being carefully documented as the work progresses – evidence of careful hands contributing to the building’s story over time.”
In fact, ‘documenting’ is a large portion of the team’s workload at the moment: “There are archaeologists on site at all times, ensuring that work is carried out respectfully and that anything that is uncovered is recorded,” added McCarthy.
Work is well underway on the building’s front façade. Windows, brickwork, slates, and railings are all being restored; the clock is undergoing conservation, and the new build will shortly start to emerge over the next few months.
“The extension is going to be very significant for Crawford, bringing new public spaces, purpose-built collection storage, a new Learn & Explore Centre, additional galleries, a new café, improved accessibility and remarkable new views across the city,” McCarthy said.
“We can’t wait to experience those elevated views and celebrate Cork from a height.”
So, when can we look forward to the gallery reopening?
“Progress has been smooth so far, and if that continues, we anticipate handover of the building back to us in mid-2028,” said Mary.
“We will need a number of months to reinstall the artworks and get all services operating. We will provide a further update on that in mid 2027 but we anticipate a late-2028 opening.”
