Over a decade after it was restored ‘Love Lane’, which is located in Crampton Court, remains as popular as ever with Dubliners and tourists alike. It has served as the backdrop for numerous proposals, engagement and wedding photoshoots and music videos.
Despite, or possibly because of, its popularity ‘Love Lane’ has suffered from unwanted attention over the years resulting in tagging, scratching and damage to the tiles. This year the original artist Anna Doran was tasked with redesigning the wall to better withstand the challenges of being a public mural and to ensure its longevity.
‘Love Lane’ creates a pathway of tiles adorned with deconstructed heart motifs and displays over 100 public contributions including quotes, poems, lyrics and dedications celebrating love and loved ones.
Anna has maintained the same concept and design but this time the lane has been fully tiled using custom tiles for outdoor use, which were installed by professional tiler Dan Milici who specializes in durable outdoor murals. This approach aims to significantly extend the mural’s lifespan, ensuring it withstands the elements and continues to make a powerful, positive statement for Temple Bar.
“I never imagined 11 years ago when we started Love Lane that it would become so popular and important to Dublin,” said Anna. "Behind every tile is a story from the public, and every tile means something special to someone. Life can be a struggle at times, and if Love Lane can give one person hope or make them smile, then it has done its job. Love Lane has long been a heartfelt tribute to Dublin—a lane created for the people, by the people. It celebrates the city's spirit and community.”
