Michael Moynihan: How Cork built homes after war — and why the same housing issues remain today

From slums and returning soldiers to post-war shortages, Cork’s housing challenges echo loudly across the decades

Old houses before they were demolished to make way for Cathedral Road on the north side of Cork city in 1935.

I was not aware of Cork’s housing history until I sat down with Tom Spalding’s new book, Designed for Life.

The subtitle tells you more (Architecture and design in Cork city, 1900–90) but if that looks a little dry, fear not. This gem should be in every home on Leeside and beyond.