Reviving Carnew’s Craft: Restoring a Historic Shopfront Through Traditional Joinery and Signage

During Heritage Week, join us at the newly restored shopfront on Carnew’s Main Street for an illustrated talk celebrating the traditional craftsmanship behind its revival. Supported through the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS), this project brought together skilled makers to carefully recreate the character of a 1920s Irish shopfront. An accompanying window display will run from 15 to 23 August, presenting photographs and interpretive panels that outline the restoration process and the shop’s history.

The Dowse family, owners of the shop, will speak about the history of the premises, its evolution over generations, and the role it has played in the daily life of Carnew. Their reflections highlight the cultural and community value of preserving familiar landmarks.

Joiner Alan Jackson of Woodfield Joinery will discuss how historic photographs guided the reconstruction of the shopfront’s bespoke timber profiles, including fascia boards, pilasters, and mouldings. He will explain how these images informed the shaping of new timber elements, allowing the lost architectural details of the original frontage to be faithfully re-established.
Traditional Sign Maker Andrew Greaves of AG Signs will share how he revived the distinctive ornamental Irish lettering once common on early-twentieth-century shopfronts. Inspired by the original porcelain raised letterforms, Andrew handmade each character to capture the aesthetic and rhythm of the historic signage.

This event offers a rare behind the scenes look at how skilled craftsmanship, heritage research, and BHIS support can help revive the architectural identity of Carnew. Delivered in collaboration with Wicklow County Council and Carnew Town Team.