A Renewed Vision

In Dublin 4, history is reborn as a former eye clinic transforms into two stunning homes. We step inside one of them - 2A, The Wellington. This home is a treasure trove of history - a former eye clinic transformed into a sanctuary of modern luxury.

- EMMA DEIGHAN

Owned by Dr. Frank Lavery, the man behind the former clinic, and his wife Lana, this renovation is a remarkable metamorphosis and very much a vision in itself.

It was 50 years ago when Frank Lavery stumbled upon what was a coach house — a modest abode that would become the cornerstone of his illustrious career. ‘It’s very central, literally 10 minutes’ walk to the main shopping area, close to all the pubs, everything is there,’ he begins. ‘I bought it, then doubled the coach house in size to make it a larger eye clinic.’

That clinic evolved into a leading eye care centre, pioneering laser refractive surgery in Ireland in 1990 and establishing itself as the epicentre of premier eye care in the country. Today, the clinic is split into two homes, one of which is the couple’s residence. This became the case when Frank found himself at a crossroads with the building; ‘A five-story house was too vast for just two souls to inhabit,’ he says. ‘Lana and I decided to downsize.’ It was a big task to breathe new life into and convert a clinic into a homely space, and that’s when the couple turned to Max and Emily, the husband and wife team at the helm of Third Mind Design.

This duo transformed the clinic into two properties that scream modern comfort, acute style, and finesse. ‘We started with 2B, where we live now,’ Frank recalls, ‘and they did a superb job,’ he adds, in a shout-out to the collaboration that fuelled The Wellington’s transformation.

Upon stepping through the gates of 2A The Wellington, the visitor is transported into a world where history and modern style converge beautifully. ‘The building is wrapped around a courtyard, reminiscent of a Spanish enclave,’ Frank explains, his words painting a picture of the warmth and shelter of the outdoor space. Mirrors adorn every window, adding depth and luminosity to the space.