The former Kiely's of Donnybrook pub in Dublin is set to become a co-living space.
Owners of the site, Westridge Real Estate, have confirmed their application for permission to demolish the existing building.
The real estate group have revealed plans to build a six-story shared living complex in the space.
John-Mark McCafferty, CEO of housing charity Threshold, says co-living does not work in the current housing climate.
He said: "Where co-living is considered as a housing option, it's considered by developers as a housing option
"In a normal functioning housing market, this wouldn't be considered a desirable option by people at any stage of their life apart from the models you see for student accommodation.
"The idea is developer-led because the co-living provide the best return on investment and that approach is problematic.
He said Threshold have been campaigning for over 40 years for good quality housing, security of tenure, and sustainable communities.
Mr McCafferty added: "Co-living doesn't appear to be a viable, genuine part of that solution."
He said there is a "massive shortage" in housing for single people or couples without children.
He added that, going forward, a mix of social, owner-occupied and affordable rental housing should be built rather than co-living units.
Additional reporting by Kerry Mitchell
