The hall in Alverstoke in Foxrock is a wealth of original Arts and Crafts features from the fireplace in the hall to the panelling and ceiling beams.

Arts and Crafts originals are difficult to come by in Ireland, says George Stacpoole, chairman of the Irish Antique Dealers Association. He occasionally has small Arts and Crafts furnishings (061 396 409). For fireplaces the best place to try is Wilson's Yard in Belfast (048 9269 2304). Prices vary, from €1,500 to €9,500 depending on the provenance and condition.

The Anglo Indian intricately carved wood pedestal table is another rather unique piece. It's a growing market, with strong demand for well carved pieces, says Sussex-based Jeroen Markies (+ 44 1342 824 980) who exhibited at the recent Arts International Summer Fair at Olympia in London. "Its popularity in part is due to the fact that it embodies a touch of the exotic and a quirkiness of design which bucks the trend for simpler, more European style furniture."