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PERCHED ON THE picturesque Strand Road in Bray, Montebello is a rare gem that blends 19th century grandeur with stunning coastal views. This mid-1800s home, once owned by the iconic, late Sinéad O’Connor, is now on the market for €1,295,000. While the property is a bit of a fixer-upper, its charm and artistic history are undeniable. Whoever takes on the project will likely want to preserve some of its unique features, paying tribute to the Grammy-winning singer and beloved Irish legend.
Stepping into Montebello, you’ll see that many of the home’s original features, including intricate ceiling plasterwork, sash windows and polished hardwood floors are already in great condition.
Spanning an impressive 345 m², Montebello has five reception rooms, six bedrooms and four bathrooms. The main hall welcomes you with original coving and a grand staircase. The reception rooms, filled with natural light and period fireplaces, offer cosy, albeit grand, surroundings and the perfect canvasses for more personal touches.
The kitchen, a charming mix of modern convenience and old-world charm, features an Aga range nestled within an exposed brick chimney breast, complemented by marble countertops and country-style cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen is a sunlit breakfast room with garden access.
The upper floors provide tranquil retreats with spacious bedrooms, many overlooking the sea. Both downstairs and up, there are hints of O’Connor’s colourful interiors taste throughout the home, from pink in the kitchen and greens in the lounges to purple in the halls and blue in the bedroom.
The main bedroom suite is the largest and has a dressing area, luxurious en suite bathroom. Hard to miss is the striking, and undeniably quirky, mural by Irish artist Shane Keisuke Berkery.
Other bedrooms feature original fireplaces and built-in wardrobes, blending character with practicality.
The property is set back from the road, accessed via electric wrought-iron gates, and offers ample parking. The back garden has a super westerly orientation and has the potential to be transformed into a peaceful haven. It’s waiting for a green thumb to restore its former glory. A stone wall backdrop and Victorian-style patio lend the space an air of seclusion.
Strand Road is more than just an address; it’s a lifestyle. Bray offers a mix of outdoor activities, from water sports to the scenic Cliff Walk. The town is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as excellent transport links, including DART and Aircoach services, making Dublin and beyond easily accessible.
Whoever buys Montebello won’t just have a renovation project on their hands, they’ll also own a piece of modern history.
Curious about property sale prices in Bray? Visit Daft.ie’s new Sold Section to explore recent sales and find out more.
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