About RIAI Bookshop
The RIAI Bookshop, located at 8 Merrion Square, is Ireland's go to destination for architectural and design books. Run by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, the shop sits in a handsome redbrick Georgian terrace looking out onto Merrion Square Park. If you are a student of architecture, a practising architect, or simply love well made books, this is the place to linger. The stock is specialist and well curated: monographs on Irish architecture, international titles on conservation and urbanism, design theory, and a fine selection of exhibition catalogues and journals.
What to Expect
Expect a compact, specialist shop rather than a sprawling high street chain. Shelves are arranged by subject: Irish architecture, conservation and restoration, contemporary practice, landscape and urban design. The staff are knowledgeable and often can point you to rare out of print titles or the latest academic publications. You will also find gifts and stationery inspired by architecture, and occasional signed books from visiting authors and practitioners. The shop often stocks titles published by the RIAI and catalogues from Irish architecture competitions and awards.
Insider Tips
- Ask for staff recommendations, they know the catalogue and Irish practice very well.
- Time your visit for weekday afternoons if you want to browse without interruption; the shop can be busy during conferences or exhibition openings in Dublin.
- If you are researching Irish architecture, check whether the RIAI runs talks or book launches while you are in town; these often take place nearby and the shop will stock new releases.
- Combine a visit with a walk around Merrion Square Park; the bookshop is perfectly placed for a coffee break on the park benches with a new read.
The RIAI Bookshop is a local favourite for anyone interested in architecture and design, and it adds a slightly academic, very Dublin flavour to a walk around Merrion Square.