While the east coast of Ireland never had a history of whaling compared with the western seaboard, Ireland was the first country in Europe to declare their territorial waters a whale and dolphin sanctuary. The proposal of the sanctuary by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, was accepted by then taoiseach Charles Haughey in 1991, who followed up by gifting his yacht Celtic Mist to the group to assist in marine wildlife conservation.
Though rarely seen in shallow waters off Dublin, in 2010 residents of Howth were treated to a visit by a colossal humpback whale – one of the largest species on Earth. One can only assume that the memory of a whale surfacing alongside a then 10-year-old boy in his tiny sailing boat will be one that will remain forever ingrained in his memory.
Whalers Cove, on Brighton Lane in Monkstown – a tiny enclave of converted mews to the rear of Brighton Terrace – was purchased by its current owners in 1999, who over the years renovated the 100sq m (1,076sq ft) property.
Though not a period house, the use of the old granite on the exteriors and in the garden gives a lovely balance with contemporary features.
The view from the master bedroom in conjunction with the proximity to the sea and lovely Monkstown village are the real selling points of this property. From the main bed, views stretch all the way to Howth Head – this view is also captured in the porthole window over the staircase.
At garden level, off an open-plan hallway is a kitchen-cum-dining room and a large living room opposite. Both rooms open out on to the rear garden through sets of French doors.
Designed by award-winning landscaper Tim Austen, winner of three gold medals at Bloom, the garden is a mixture of cedar, granite and zinc, with plantings to tolerate coastal winds. There is space for two cars, which can be parked outside if owners are entertaining al fresco.
Inside, travertine flagstones and overhead beams add warmth to the property and the clever use of mirrors reflect light throughout. The use of many portholes gives a nod to the maritime location.
The property has three bedrooms – two doubles and a single – and a fine family bathroom, off which lies a hidden utility.
Sherry FitzGerald is seeking €1.05 million for Whalers Cove, which is in turnkey condition. While an ambitious price, downsizers are willing to pay a premium for this location. A similar mews in need of full renovation has just been sold on Albany Avenue for more than €1.1 million.
