The building at 7 O’Connell Street which will now act as a new base for Susan McGowan’s business Ashen & Cloud. "A rising tide lifts all boats": Ashen & Cloud brings new life to historic Westside buildingBy Rebekah O'ReillyA historic building on Athlone’s Westside is set for a new chapter as design studio Ashen & Cloud prepares to relocate to 7 O’Connell Street. McGowan said the O’Connell Street property, which is almost 200 years old and predates the current town bridge, offered both the space and character the company was seeking. Raised on the Westside of Athlone, she worked part-time with her aunt and uncle in O'Meara's Bookmakers on Connaught Street. Soon it will be the artisanal hub of the town, building upon the well-established cultural hub of the Left Bank, and it will be an even more exciting place to both live and work.

Source: Irish Independent February 28, 2026 14:56 UTC