Merrion Hotel penthouse sale proves that some luxury homes still selling well

The market may be sluggish for ordinary family homes, but when it comes to something special, it seems there is still plenty of money around. Sherry FitzGerald has just agreed terms on a penthouse apartment at the Merrion Hotel that was launched on the market just two weeks ago. It has been bought for over the asking price of £2.5 million (3.17m) according to selling agent Simon Ensor. At over £1,000 (1,269) per sq ft this is one of the most expensive properties yet sold in Dublin's city centre. Part of the attraction of the three-bedroom apartment, which had been lavishly decorated and furnished by interior designer team Helen Roden and Joe Ensko, is that the owner can use all the facilities of the hotel from room service to the swimming-pool and spa. Three bidders chased the property which comes with two parking spaces beneath the five-star hotel.