Sir, - I wish to take issue with Mr Sean Murphy in regard to the tone and incorrect content of his criticism of Messrs Temple Bar Properties (March 1st). Contrary to Mr Murphy's allegations, the Smock Alley Theatre is clearly "marked" and in fact is now, appropriately, the new Viking Museum, which is located in St Michael's and John's Church.
Many changes have been made to the church interior but its great ceiling and its total exterior have been preserved for the public. Is this not laudable? The evidence, as published in the latest archaeological study, identifies the church as not merely occupying the site of the Smock Alley Theatre, but as substantially occupying the original theatre building; reverse restoration?
On passing by last week, I had a close look at Isolde's Tower which has been conserved and placed on public view behind an elegant metal screen designed by the artist Grace Weir. The buildings have now been removed, and the archaeological wealth of the great tower base was clear to view.
Finally, the new buildings on Essex Quay are, to my mind, extremely elegant. This is not just a subjective view. They have been the subject of praise by not only the architectural correspondent of this newspaper (February 13th) but also by the critic in last week's Black Box arts programme on RTE television, who held it as being the prime example of architectural courtesy to its neighbours. This courtesy is extended particularly to - and I agree with Mr Murphy here - the wonderful idiosyncrasy of Sunlight Chambers next door. For me, the new buildings have gone beyond merely fitting in by also visually enhancing the older ones. - Yours, etc.,
Clonkeen Grove, Dun Laoghaire.