IT SEEMS WHOLLY fitting that this semi-detached Victorian residence on Dublin’s south side once belonged to Cathal O’Neill – a name architecture buffs may well be familiar with. O’Neill was head of the school of architecture at University College Dublin from the ’70s to the ’90s and he lived here, at 6 Saint James Terrace, with his wife, interior designer Deirdre Monks and their children.
A large home with a floor area of 371 m², no doubt it was the orientation as well as the Clonskeagh location that attracted the O’Neills. And while they introduced more light to the home by making some rooms double aspect, they were sympathetic to the house’s history and made sure to keep Victorian details intact, from the high ceilings and fire surrounds to the plasterwork and panelled doors.
The house, spread over three levels is now on the market for €3,950,000.
It’s not just the interior that’s spacious. The gardens to the front and back of the house, with space to extend to the side, surely contribute to the high price tag. And that’s before we mention the outdoor swimming pool and two-storey coach house to the back.
Steps lead up to the front door at the middle level of the house. First, you’re met with the bright entrance hall and then the inner stair-hall that links to the study, cloakroom and the two reception rooms.
One of the brightest rooms is the drawing room to the back of the house, which faces south. The large sash windows let lots of natural light in that floods into the living space.
The kitchen is located at garden level with double doors that lead to an area perfect for outdoor dining. It’s also sheltered so is sure to be used for months outside summer.
Also on this ground level is a large playroom, a handy home office, the pantry and the utility room along with a guest toilet.
All of the bedrooms sit on the first floor which also has access to the attic from the landing. The bedrooms are bright and spacious and two have wardrobes built-in. Three share the family bathroom while one has its own shower room. For extra character, two of the bedrooms have their own fireplaces.
The coach house, stables, carriage room and groom room are extra elements that are sure to intrigue someone who’s up for a project. With their original stone-walls and flagstone floors still intact, these space could make for extra accommodation, a home office or a home gym.
The back garden faces south west and by now is full of well-established shrubs, plants and trees. Cut stone walls add extra privacy while the outdoor pool, which is heated, adds a luxurious element straight away. There are two ways to access the back garden – from the ground level and also from the middle via a small balcony that leads to granite steps.
Anyone house hunting on Dublin’s south side will be familiar with the villages of Donnybrook, Clonskeagh, Ballsbridge and Milltown, which all sit close by. The price tag may be eye-watering, but perhaps it’s no surprise for a large historic home that’s in what’s considered one the most prestigious areas on the city’s south side.
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