DUBLIN 14/€1.295M:From modest beginnings, this four-bedroom dormer has been redesigned in such a way that the whole ground floor can open up to one large space, writes ALANNA GALLAGHER
ADARE on Wynnsward Park in Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, is a detached, dormer bungalow on a quiet cul-de-sac that was extensively remodelled six years ago.
From modest beginnings, the four-bedroom property has been extended to 288sq m (3,100sq ft) and decorated in a classic American manner. Outside, on a sheltered deck, an abundance of hurricane lamps gives the place a New England feel.
The house has an asking price of €1,295 million through agents Sherry Fitzgerald.
It’s a home ideally suited to those who like to entertain. The whole ground floor can open up to one large space – and there’s plenty of room for dancing. There’s a smart open fireplace in the sizeable drawing room, complete with free-standing bookcases and room for a grand piano. The room has fold-back doors that sit flush with the wall when open.
On the other side of the roomy, L-shaped entrance hall is an enormous open-plan living area where rooms flow into one another: there’s a dining room and, alcoved off it, a sitting room that has an open fire and a door leading directly onto a south-facing deck and city-sized garden.
At the far end of the space is a huge kitchen area that has a vaulted ceiling, moody mosaic tiling and an Aga corner where the present owner’s dog likes to bed down.
Natural lighting comes from overhead skylights that illuminate the prep area and island parts of this expansive space. The counters are polished granite. Timber panelling and recessed ceiling spotlights add texture.
Adjoining the kitchen is a second sitting room or den. It too has direct access to the garden. This entire area can be opened or closed, thanks to another set of fold-back doors.
The house is painted a chalky taupe colour – that vague term beloved by decorators – throughout. It covers walls, ceilings and bathrooms. This colourscape unifies the space, giving it a boutique hotel feel. Dark-stained French oak polished wood floors cover the ground floor.
There are two bedrooms at ground level – a main suite at the rear that has a dressing room and en suite bathroom as well as doors that open out on to the outside deck. A second double also has an en suite.
Upstairs, there are two more roomy doubles, one with a large study area. These share a shower room.
The house is hidden from view behind electronic gates where there is off-street parking for several cars.
