I wish to extend my support to Niall Scott’s endorsement of Frank McDonald’s idea of transforming the soon-to-be obsolete US embassy structure in Dublin into a cultural hub. His letter, dated May 22nd, aligns with my belief that such a conversion could pave the way for a dedicated space showcasing the evolution of contemporary Irish architecture and design – (“Dublin’s iconic US embassy building is turning 60. Here’s why Washington should donate it to Ireland” (The Ticket, May 18th).
Interestingly enough, my father, Herbert Unger, once an understudy architect to Niall’s father, Michael Scott, in the 1940s and 50s, had proposed a similar idea. He suggested that the Irish state should acquire the Scott household in Sandycove when it was listed for sale with the aim to establish an exhibition and museum there.
The potential cultural centre could be the ideal podium to highlight how American and European influences have impacted Irish designers. Such a showcase would undoubtedly be even more impactful within the splendid setting of the old embassy building.
Yours faithfully,
Klaus Unger,
Killiney,
Co Dublin.