[Bartra, a modern dormer bungalow, lies along the bank of the river Boyne just outside Trim in Co Meath. Bought by owner Lila Blount 17 years ago, the property has been totally renovated with the addition of a modern extension to the rear comprising a kitchen-cum- breakfast room, which opens out on to a large raised deck via concertina doors.
At ground level are three fine reception rooms, two bedrooms and a study with two further bedrooms upstairs. The house, which extends to 224sq m is in turn-key condition, painted in soft neutrals, with a mixture of oak and pale porcelain flooring.
Furniture throughout are pieces collected from auctions and bric-a-brac shops which Blount painted with Autentico chalk paint – which coupled with linen cushions and throws by Linum gives a New England feel.
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One of the most remarkable features of the property are the views to the rear of the house. The raised deck – which could accommodate 50 for entertaining, has views of the Boyne and the ruins of an Augustinian Abbey. The monks who lived at this settlement in the 12th century, have left a legacy of herbs such as comfrey, angelica, marjoram and horseradish which grow along the banks of the river.
In addition to the wild herbs, Blount and her family totally cleared the site planting an orchard and lawn which roll down to the river.
“It’s such a lovely setting,” says Blount who is downsizing due to an empty nest. “I could just spend the whole day in the kitchen looking out at the water hens – who sometimes come to the orchard to peck at the windfall. The river, of which we have fishing rights, has trout and salmon.”
Her son used to kayak on the river, and the local kayak club often paddle by.
The lands across the river are known as Porchfields – a medieval common, which will never be built on, and on which the local council have developed nature trails.
Just a ten-minute walk from the centre of Trim, Bartras’ riparian setting will suit a family who appreciate the opportunity to catch their dinner or kayak along one of Ireland’s most historic rivers.
