Ahead of opening The July - Capel Street in Dublin in autumn 2026, we spoke to Andy Goodwin, Director at Fettle Design, who worked alongside our in-house design team to bring the exciting project to life.

From Georgian architecture and industrial heritage to the independent spirit of Capel Street, we explored the inspiration behind the design of our newest apartment hotel.

Inspired by Capel Street

For Andy and the team at Fettle, the starting point was always the neighbourhood itself.

"The design takes inspiration from the Georgian architecture of Capel Street, the area's industrial heritage and the cosmopolitan atmosphere that makes this part of Dublin so unique."

Throughout the hotel, references to the past sit alongside contemporary details that reflect the independent energy of modern Capel Street. The result is a space that feels connected to the city rather than separate from it.

A stay with personality

The July is designed to feel more like a home than a traditional hotel.

Natural plaster walls, timber flooring and tactile materials create a warm, residential backdrop, while bold colour palettes inspired by local shopfronts and landmarks bring personality to the spaces.

"We wanted the interiors to feel playful, relaxed and informal, while still offering moments of contrast and discovery through colour, texture and materiality."

Details worth looking out for

One of the standout features is the curved statement bar in the restaurant, designed to create a strong connection between the hotel and the street outside. Guests will also discover bespoke rugs inspired by local architectural landmarks and custom murals by local artists throughout the coworking and courtyard spaces.

Elsewhere, the influence of pioneering Irish designer, Eileen Gray, can be seen in subtle modernist references, while tiling patterns draw inspiration from Dublin's historic Fruit Market.

Designed for every type of stay

Whether visiting for a weekend, a work trip or a longer stay, flexibility was central to the design process.

"The July's mix of restaurant, coworking, wellness and lounge spaces allowed us to create areas with their own identity while ensuring they still felt connected."

Guestrooms feature versatile furniture that supports both relaxation and work, helping guests settle in however they choose to experience Dublin.

A new chapter for a historic street

One of the most rewarding challenges was incorporating the historic 162 Capel Street building into the development.

While working with the existing structure required careful design consideration, it has resulted in some of the property's most unique apartments, preserving a piece of Capel Street's history for future guests.

For Andy, the goal was simple: to create a place where guests feel both connected to Dublin and able to escape from it.

"The city is right on the doorstep, but the hotel should also feel like a retreat. Somewhere guests can relax, recharge and feel at home."

Opening this autumn, The July - Capel Street brings together design-led apartments, flexible living and the spirit of one of Dublin's most exciting neighbourhoods.