A two-storey extension – and a spiral staircase from Kilmainham Gaol – give a new look to a period home

SOLIDLY Victorian, down to its decorative plasterwork and open fireplaces, 78 George’s Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin has been given a new lease of life with the addition of a dramatic, two-storey rear extension. No less solid than the earlier part of the house – steel was used in the floor and roof – the extension has added a large kitchen/breakfastroom, sunroom, livingroom, two bedrooms and a gym, all distinguished by the use of strong colours, a great deal of light and lively design quirks.

With an area of 333sq m (3600sq ft), the house has five en suite bedrooms, four reception rooms and a large kitchen/breakfastroom. The asking price is €3 million and Savills is looking after the private treaty sale. The house has not been on the market for 20 years.

Semi-detached and built in 1850, the front, Victorian part of the house has all the ornate coving, high ceilings and long sash windows of the period, down to the decorative plasterwork around the entrance. Adjoining drawing and diningrooms have a stately, though comfortable, feel with high ceilings, large open fireplaces, picture rails and long sash windows.

The very large garden-level kitchen/breakfastroom makes a statement with its deep yellow walls, slate floor and aqua fittings. Window seats fill a niche by double glass doors to the garden. There is a Stanley Aga, black marble fireplace and Belfast sink.

The adjoining sunroom is Victorian, with a mosaic floor and a cast-iron spiral staircase which originated in Kilmainham Gaol. A section of the 120ft elevated rear garden running alongside the sunroom has a water feature. Above the sunroom and kitchen there is a large sittingroom with a balcony overlooking the garden. It has skylights, a timber floor, a cast-iron fireplace and pitched roof.

The main bedroom suite, to the front, has a marble fireplace, blue walls and carpet (the sale includes carpets and curtains). A square arch leads to wardrobes and a dressing area with sash window. The large en suite has a standing bath and is terracotta tiled.

A front, gravelled area has parking for several cars.

78 George’s Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin

Five-bedroom Victorian home with large extension

Agent:Savills