Dublin boasts a rich cultural heritage and a tapestry of creative expression. Yet, the ongoing struggle to preserve this legacy seems relentless to both Dublin’s Creative Class and residents in the city today. The discourse surrounding the impact of gentrification on our city gains momentum daily. Each day brings news of yet another closure – be it a beloved pub, a vibrant club, or a thriving creative venue – yielding to the expansion of characterless commercial ventures like hotels. This thesis uses case studies from cities including New York, London, Lisbon, and Dublin, to clarify the disruptive effects of gentrification on social fabrics, cultural communities, and historical identities. Through a comprehensive analysis of historical context and contemporary examples, it becomes evident how gentrification lead to the loss of essential communal spaces like pubs and clubs, crucial for social interaction and cultural exchange. Using Ray Oldenburg’s theory of the third place, this thesis emphasises the importance of having these spaces within communities. Drawing on Richard Florida’s concept of the Creative Class, this research highlights the detrimental consequences of gentrification, such as the closure of spaces like the Icon Factory and displacements from the Dean Arts Studios. Furthermore, it uncovers the disparity in government funding between tourism and the creative sector, reflecting a prioritisation of short-term economic gains over long-term cultural sustainability. Focusing particularly on Temple Bar, the study examines the displacement of artists and the closure of cultural hubs, showcasing the tension between development for tourism and preservation of creative spaces. The exploration into Dublin’s socio-cultural dynamics from gentrification effects are highlighted through focusing on case studies such as Moore Street, the Bernard Shaw and the Cobblestone pub. Findings from a survey conducted among Dublin residents in April 2024 reveal concerns regarding the negative impact of gentrification on the city’s creative and cultural scene, particularly emphasising the adverse effects of pub and club closures on cultural vibrancy and community cohesion. These results underscore the urgent need for nuanced policy approaches that reconcile economic development with cultural preservation to address the tensions inherent in contemporary urban landscapes.