At Dolmen Design & Innovation, we proudly carry forward a tradition that began 60 years ago with Kilkenny Design Workshops (KDW), the world’s first government-backed design agency. Established in 1965, KDW pioneered a design collaboration model that fused creativity with industry, setting new global standards for design excellence and competitiveness.
The story of Dolmen is deeply intertwined with this legacy. Founded in 1991 by Sean McNulty, a former KDW designer, Dolmen embodies the evolution of Irish design into a global force. Today, Dolmen stands as Ireland’s modern-day hub for product design excellence, helping the world’s most ambitious brands to deliver breakthrough product pipelines.
From concept to commercialisation, Dolmen’s work spans diverse sectors, from medtech to consumer goods, proving that Irish design continues to lead on the world stage. Our success is built on values that matter:
The legacy of KDW is not just history, it’s a living influence. The principles pf collaboration, craftsmanship, and creativity, that shaped KDW, remain at the core of our practice. Every product we design carries forward this DNA, blending timeless design values with cutting-edge technology.
This November marks the 60th Anniversary of Kilkenny Design Workshops, celebrated through a landmark exhibition at the National Design & Craft Gallery, Kilkenny Castle Yard. The showcase, The Ties that Tie and the Links that Link, runs from 15th November 2025 to 28th February 2026, offering a rare glimpse into the visionary initiative that made Kilkenny the beating heart of Irish design.
Join us at the National Design & Craft Gallery to explore how Ireland’s design story continues to evolve. Discover Dolmen’s contribution to shaping the future while honouring the past.
📍 Exhibition: The Ties that Tie and the Links that Link
📅 15th November 2025 – 28th February 2026
🏛 National Design & Craft Gallery, Kilkenny Castle Yard
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