SMBC Aviation Capital Welcomes Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe to formal opening of new and sustainable headquarters at Fitzwilliam 28

On the official opening, SMBC Aviation Capital CEO Peter Barrett said “This is a hugely significant day in the history and growth of SMBC Aviation Capital. Our new and sustainable global Headquarters located in the heart of Dublin represents not just our commitment to Ireland, but also this country’s pre-eminence as the global hub for Aircraft Leasing. SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s largest lessors, employs over 300 highly skilled people in nine countries around the world and over 260 are located here in Dublin. Our new headquarters will facilitate our growth ambition, promote the continued delivery of excellence to our customers and reflect our ongoing support for the Irish economy.”

Designed in 2014 by Grafton Architects: an award-winning Irish Practice lead by Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara, Fitzwilliam 28 is a modern office space in the historic heart of Dublin 2.

A key focus in the design of the building has been its environmental credentials, accordingly it is characterised by extensive sustainability-driven innovation, and it is intended that the building be LEED Gold accredited on full completion.

CEO Peter Barrett went on to say “We are immensely proud that our new Headquarters will be shared with our partners in Together Academy, who do outstanding work in the areas of employment opportunity and social support for young people with Down syndrome. Fitzwilliam 28 will be a base for their office and training facilities and will have a training cafe on the ground floor. It’s a wonderful partnership and we are privileged to have Together Academy here with us.”

In addition, the Trinity College Dublin Sustainable Aviation Fuel Research Facility will be located on the ground floor of SMBC Aviation Capital’s new headquarters. Trinity College Dublin staff, as delivery partners for the EU Sustainable Aviation Fuel Clearing House, will play a crucial role in identifying and validating new, sustainable fuels. The SAF Research Facility is co-funded by Science Foundation Ireland and Ryanair and SMBC Aviation Capital is proud to support this crucial work on the future sustainability of the aviation sector. In conclusion, Peter Barrett said “Aviation has a strong heritage in Ireland and we in SMBC Aviation Capital are determined to play our part in securing a vibrant future for the sector. Our new headquarters is the physical embodiment of our commitment to Ireland and our ambition for the future.”

Additional Notes on design of SMBC AC HQ 28 Fitzwilliam

Working with Henry J Lyons Architects on design and our main contractor, Structure Tone, our new headquarters reflects the culture of the company while offering a world class working environment to our employees.

The building architects had particular regard to the Georgian setting of the site and the need to provide an appropriate balance between the development of commercial floorspace and the historic and architectural sensitivities of the site.

The finished building is reflective of this using materials and planting that complement the Georgian context.

The key objective of the design for the new SMBC Aviation Capital HQ in 28 Fitzwilliam is to deliver a modern and sustainable office space that is reflective of the growth that the company and the industry has made over the past 10+ years.